Abu Dhabi: A group of nine students from the Future Rehabilitation Centre, a local special needs school, were whisked away from school for a surprise hands-on science lesson in Etihad Airways’ state-of-the-art flight simulator, where they learnt about flight regulations, aircraft technology and how to be an effective co-pilot.
The group, aged 12 to 16, enjoyed a ‘flight’ to London Heathrow and also soared along the Abu Dhabi Corniche in the simulated cockpit of the airline’s flagship Airbus A380.
Hosted by two UAE national graduate managers, the students also had a tour of the Training Academy, where captains and cabin crew are trained in the airline’s world-class hospitality and service.
After their experience, Etihad Airways captains awarded the students with ‘Honorary Junior Pilot’ certificates to commemorate the day.
Majid Al Marzouqi, vice-president, Flight Operations at Etihad Airways, said: “In the Year of Giving, we are delighted once more to collaborate with the Future Rehabilitation Centre on this initiative, encouraging youngsters to reach for the skies.”
A video of the students’ journey can be seen on the airline’s social media channels.
Dr Mowfaq M.A. Mustafa, director of the Future Rehabilitation Centre, said: “Our students were all beaming when they told us of their exciting experiences at the simulator. This initiative gave our students a glimpse of what the future can provide for people who dream and work hard, which is something that we are trying to instil in them. I thank Etihad Airways and the team behind this opportunity for being so creative in its ways of supporting our mission.”
Year 2017 was officially declared the Year of Giving by President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. In support of this national initiative, the airline has pledged to donate one dirham for every ticket sold in the UAE. Spreading the message of giving around the world, the airline’s Airbus A380 can be seen sporting the Year of Giving logo.
