Etihad Aviation Group and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority enter new chapter by launching “Let’s Read with the Captain” initiative

Etihad Aviation Group (EAG) and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA) have reached new heights to promote reading with an initiative entitled “Let’s Read with the Captain.”       

As part of the programme, 24 female students from Al Jawaher Primary School attended a reading session at Etihad Airways’ Academy in Abu Dhabi, hosted by First Officer, Aisha Al Mansouri and Second Officer Fatima Al Zahery. The theme for the session was “Pilot of the Future.”

The wider initiative reflects the commitment of government entities to support a culture of reading and stimulate knowledge amongst the next generation of leaders across all fields. 

Senior Vice President, Corporate and International Affairs at Etihad Aviation Group, Hareb Mubarak Al Muhairy, said: “We are proud to see our UAE national pilots giving their time on a voluntary basis to meet students and encourage them to read more. This first-of-its-kind initiative comes at a perfect time as the UAE marks National Reading Month, in line with the vision of the UAE’s leaders.            “As part of this initiative, we have developed various activities to educate youngsters about the airline industry and encourage thinking about non-traditional career paths. We are also seeking to instil a culture of reading so the quest for knowledge begins at an early age. Our pilots are role models in so many ways and their highly specialised work promotes a knowledge-based economy.”  

Welcoming the initiative, Mr. Abdullah Majid Al Ali, Acting Executive Director, National Library Sector at TCA Abu Dhabi, said “We have provided Etihad Airways with 1000 books as part of TCA’s efforts to promote reading and knowledge. We are confident that with the support of government entities like EAG, we are planting the seeds of a successful and smart future for this nation. The world is changing quickly and being better informed will make us better equipped.”

During the visit, students experienced a flight simulator where they learnt about flight regulations, safety and what’s involved when an aircraft takes off and lands. They also had some lighter moments with the cabin crew and during group activities.