Etihad Airways | B777 First Officer

Cargo/Freighter First Officer: Opportunity in Abu Dhabi

Make the world the candidate's home.

Etihad Airways is experiencing an extraordinary period of growth and transformation. Following a record-breaking half-year profit and the launch of 27 new destinations in 2025, the airline is heavily investing in its future. With over 20 new aircraft scheduled to arrive this year and a clear strategy to double the fleet by 2030, Etihad is redefining global aviation through a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and world-class service.

The successful candidate will be based in Abu Dhabi, ranked as the world's safest city in 2025. This vibrant, cosmopolitan environment offers an exceptional lifestyle complemented by comprehensive benefits, tax-free salaries, industry-leading staff travel, and boundless opportunities for career progression both within and outside the flight deck.

The Role: First Officer, Cargo Operations

The First Officer serves as a critical member of the flight deck team, directly supporting the Captain to ensure the safe, secure, and efficient operation of every flight. The role demands exceptional technical skill, professionalism, and strong teamwork, while providing the foundation for developing future command capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assists the Captain across all phases of flight, including preparation, navigation, and operation, ensuring strict adherence to Etihad's operating procedures and international regulatory standards.
• Maintains continuous, independent vigilance regarding aircraft position, surrounding terrain, and dynamic weather conditions to support safe navigation at all times.
• Provides clear, concise communication, advice, and operational support to the Captain, significantly contributing to efficient and secure decision-making processes.
• Upholds the highest standards of discipline, professional conduct, and personal appearance, representing Etihad Airways with distinction in every operating environment.
• Assumes command in the unlikely event of Captain incapacitation, strictly in accordance with established rank and company protocols.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits

Etihad offers a highly competitive, tax-free annual remuneration package tailored to recognize performance and the unique requirements of cargo operations. The package includes performance-based annual increments and comprehensive benefits:

• Base Salary: AED 216,000 (USD 58,815) per year.
• Additional Pay: Monthly productivity pay and variable pay components.
• Annual Incentive: Up to AED 16,500 (USD 4,492), based on a 175-day working pattern.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
• Accidental and life insurance coverage.
• Industry-leading staff travel benefits and access to exclusive Etihad discount schemes.
• Statutory end-of-service benefits.

Essential Qualifications and Requirements

To be eligible for the position of Freighter First Officer, candidates must satisfy the General Eligibility requirements below, in addition to meeting the minimum experience specified under either Criteria A or Criteria B.

Criteria A:

• Minimum 2,500 hours total flying time (TT).
• Minimum 1,500 hours on multi-crew, glass-cockpit aircraft (equipped with a Flight Management System coupled to an Automatic Pilot Flight Director System).
• Minimum 1,000 hours specifically on any Boeing aircraft type.

Criteria B:

• Minimum 3,000 hours total flying time (TT).
• Minimum 2,000 hours specifically on Boeing aircraft.

General Eligibility:

• The applicant must currently be flying on a Boeing aircraft, or have operational experience on a Boeing type within the last 12 months.
• Must hold a Boeing type rating valid for at least 2 months at the time of joining.
• Possession of an Unrestricted Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) or frozen ATPL issued by an ICAO member state.
• A current and unrestricted Class 1 Medical Certificate.
• English Language Proficiency: Minimum ICAO Level 4 or above (written and verbal).
• Must be under 50 years of age on the date of joining.

About Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was established in 2003 and has rapidly ascended to become one of the world’s most respected and fastest-growing carriers. Operating from its global hub in Abu Dhabi, Etihad serves a diverse network of passenger and cargo destinations spanning the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. As part of its ambitious Journey 2030 strategy, the airline plans to double its fleet size and triple its customer base over the next six years, reinforcing its goal to be the world's preferred airline. Etihad has received numerous industry accolades for its superior service, product offerings, cargo capabilities, and loyalty programs.

To learn more about Etihad Airways, please visit the official company website.

Recruitment Fraud Alert

Prospective candidates are advised to be aware of fraudulent job offers from external individuals or organizations claiming to represent the Etihad group. Etihad will never request personal bank details, payment, or fees during any stage of the official recruitment process. Formal offers are only extended after interviews conducted either face-to-face or via video/telephone. Any requests for money should be treated as fraudulent.