Etihad Airways announces new Singapore Country Manager

He will be responsible for Etihad's Singapore operations which include the launch of the airline's three flights-a-week services to Abu Dhabi and Brisbane which start on 28 September.

Michael brings 35 years of aviation experience to Etihad which he gained largely with British Airways and Qantas in the Far East.

Geert Boven, Etihad Airways' executive vice president sales and services, said: "Singapore is set to be one of our most popular services and Michael's experience and expertise will be an integral part of establishing Etihad Airways in this market."

Previously Michael held several positions with British Airways in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei, including commercial manager and country manager.

He has been an associate member of the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore and a member of the Singapore executive council for the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The Abu Dhabi-Singapore Business Forum (ADSBF), which will forge greater links between the two cities, was launched in June 2007 and coincides with the start of Etihad's new service.

Singapore will be Etihad's fifth destination in the Far East to add to Bangkok, Manila, Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur, which was launched in January 2007.