Jobs at Etihad | A320 First Officer

First Officer A320 - Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE based in Abu Dhabi, is seeking qualified individuals to join its team as First Officers on the A320 fleet. Since its formation in 2003, Etihad has grown into one of the world's leading airlines, connecting destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America, supported by extensive codeshare partnerships. The airline is dedicated to transforming the aviation industry through creativity, innovation, and sustainability, striving to create thoughtful choices for guests and deliver a remarkable experience for its employees. With significant investment and ambitious expansion plans, Etihad offers a dynamic environment for aviation professionals.

The Role

The First Officer is integral to the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft. Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting the flight in full compliance with the current flight plan, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and the Captain's instructions when acting as pilot flying.
• Notifying the Captain of any changes to the current flight plan, Air Traffic Control (ATC) clearances, or geographical position upon their return to the controls.
• Assisting the Captain as requested concerning any administrative duties related to the flight.
• Maintaining a continuous and independent check to confirm the safe navigation of the aircraft, ensuring the aircraft's geographical position, terrain clearance, and weather conditions are constantly monitored.
• Upholding a high personal standard of discipline, conduct, and appearance at all times as a representative of Etihad Airways.

What You'll Bring

To be considered for the First Officer position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum of 2500 hours of total flying time.
• A minimum of 1500 hours on multi-crew, glass cockpit (aircraft with a FMS coupled to APFDS), or high-performance military jet aircraft.
• At least 500 hours must be accumulated on one of the A320 Family aircraft.
• The applicant must have flown any Airbus Fly-By-Wire (FBW) aircraft within the last 12 months.
• Possession of an ICAO current and unrestricted Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL). Frozen ATPL is not accepted unless held by a UAE citizen.
• The applicant must hold a current A320 type rating, valid for a minimum of 2 months at the anticipated time of joining.
• Possession of an unrestricted, current Class 1 medical certificate.
• Maximum age limit for applicants is 50 years old at the time of application.
• English Language Fluency (written and verbal) at Level 4 or better according to ICAO standards.
• For flying hours accumulated on flights with inflight relief, 75% of the total hours shall be counted towards the required minimums.

What We Offer

Joining Etihad Airways as a First Officer offers a compelling career path combined with an attractive lifestyle in Abu Dhabi, recognized as the world's safest city in 2025. The role provides extensive progression opportunities within the airline. Etihad offers a competitive annual package including basic salary, flying pay, housing allowance to secure a preferred home, and layover and meal allowances. First Officers have the potential to earn up to 513,732 AED (approximately USD 138,318) tax-free per annum, based on 75 hours of flying per month. Annual salary increments are provided based on performance.

Additional benefits include:

• Education allowance of AED 40,000 for primary education and AED 55,000 for secondary education, applicable for up to 3 children.
• Income protection scheme.
• 42 days of annual leave.
• Industry-leading staff travel benefits and access to Etihad’s exclusive iSave discount programme.
• End-of-service benefits as per UAE labour law.
• Accidental and life insurance coverage.

Building a life in the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi is supported by a tax-free salary, comprehensive benefits, and a high quality of life, offering an exciting new adventure for pilots and their families.

Application Process

Qualified and interested Pilots are invited to submit their details for consideration. Etihad's Pilot Recruitment Team regularly conducts assessment events in various locations globally. For candidates based in the Madrid region, an assessment event is scheduled for June 18th, 19th, and 20th. The team will contact candidates who meet the required criteria to confirm the next steps for assessment for this specific event or for future opportunities.