Etihad Airways to Host Pilot Recruitment Roadshows in Poland and Hungary September 2025

(WARSAW, POLAND) Etihad Airways will hold pilot recruitment roadshows in Poland and Hungary in September 2025, opening doors for European flight crew who want long-term careers in Abu Dhabi. The events are part of a major hiring push to bring on hundreds of pilots as the airline grows its fleet and network.

Etihad says the drive supports its plan to double fleet size by 2030 and meet strong demand for new Airbus and Boeing aircraft coming online. The roadshows will run in two capitals, with in-person sessions and on-the-spot guidance on career paths and relocation.

Event schedule and format

• Warsaw: September 13–14, 2025, Holiday Inn Warsaw City Centre — 10:00–16:00 each day.
• Budapest: September 16–17, 2025, Mercure Budapest City Centre — 10:00–16:00 each day.

These two stops are the early phase of a wider European tour that will include Cyprus, Bulgaria, Albania, Romania, and Lithuania, before expanding to other regions. Sessions will feature short talks, Q&A, and one-to-one conversations with recruitment and flight operations teams. Family members and partners are invited to attend to learn about living and schooling in Abu Dhabi.

Who should attend

Etihad is inviting pilots of all ranks and aircraft backgrounds, including those with time on:
– Airbus A320, A350, A380
– Boeing 777, 787, and 777 freighters

Pilots who do not yet meet all criteria are still welcome to attend or register interest online, since hiring will continue through 2025 and 2026. Etihad emphasizes building a pipeline for future needs as well as filling immediate vacancies.

“We’re proud to showcase everything that both Etihad and Abu Dhabi have to offer, and we are seeking pilots who share in our ambitions,” said John Wright, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways. He highlighted the clear path for development, promotion opportunities, and strong lifestyle support for families moving to the UAE.

Why attend

• Career progression: Growth will create more command upgrades and fleet transition opportunities over time.
• Global network: Etihad operates to over 70 destinations and employs people from 142 nationalities.
• Family support: Information on schools, housing, and community life will be available.
• Compensation & benefits: Etihad highlights tax-free pay, comprehensive benefits, and relocation support for families.

How to prepare and what to bring

1. Bring your current CV, license copies, medical certificate, and a summary of flight hours.
2. Prepare a clear log of hours by aircraft type and role (PIC/SIC).
3. Have both digital and paper copies of documents available.
4. Dress smartly and treat the meeting like a first interview.
5. Write down specific questions about training flow, fleet assignment, and family support.

Practical tips:
– Arrive early to secure time with recruiters during peak hours.
– Expect short talks, Q&A sessions, and direct discussions with fleet chiefs and recruiters.

Registration and next steps

Pilots who prefer to register ahead or cannot attend in person can apply through Etihad’s careers site: careers.etihad.com.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to full assessments, which may include:
– Interviews
– Simulator checks
– Further assessments as required

Immigration and family relocation process

For pilots based in Poland and Hungary who receive offers, moving to Abu Dhabi typically involves an employer-sponsored work and residence process. The UAE Government portal outlines the steps; see official guidance at the UAE Government work and residence visa page.

Typical process for an Etihad hire:
– The airline initiates the work permit and entry permit steps.
– On arrival, pilots complete a medical exam and Emirates ID biometrics.
– The residence visa is then stamped in the passport, allowing legal stay and work.
– Afterwards, pilots can often sponsor their spouse and children, with assistance from Etihad’s mobility team.

Recruitment standards and timing

Etihad is hiring for current fleet needs while building capacity for future growth. Recruiters encourage:
– Pilots in transition (switching types, finishing command training, or building hours) to attend and keep profiles active.
– Pilots who join now to take advantage of growth-driven promotion opportunities as new routes and aircraft are introduced.

Industry context:
– The hiring push aligns with sustained travel demand and a tight pilot labor market.
– Early, wide recruitment across Europe gives Etihad an edge as competitors pursue the same talent.
– Fleet and network expansion (including recent route launches to Bali, Jaipur, and Al Qassim) support the airline’s 2030 ambitions.

Additional insights and analyst commentary

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com:
– Etihad’s clear promotion path, tax-free compensation, and support for spouses and children are major draws for European pilots seeking stability and growth.
– Rapid family relocation after onboarding can improve retention.
– Pilots who join during growth cycles often move more quickly into wide-body fleets.

Key details (quick reference)

For pilots in Central and Eastern Europe, the Warsaw and Budapest stops reduce travel time and cost, offering a direct channel to hiring teams and a close look at life in the UAE. If you’re ready to explore the opportunity, bring your documents, prepare questions, and consider registering online at careers.etihad.com.