Etihad appoints new chief for safety, security and quality

A former director of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) in the UAE and the chairman of Arab Civil Aviation Commission Safety and Standard Committee, Mohamed brings more than 20 years aviation experience to his new role at the Abu Dhabi-based airline.

He has held a variety of senior positions in the Middle East aviation sector, including roles in planning, finance, operations, technical and regulatory. Mohamed joins Etihad Airways from Istithmar World Aviation Executive Jets, the executive jet operations wing of Dubai World.

Captain Richard Hill, Etihad Airways' executive vice president operations, said: 'Mohamed's extensive experience in the aviation sector in this region will be a huge asset to our rapidly expanding airline.

'His knowledge of the UAE's regulatory framework, together with his experience of working with the GCAA and other key governmental and airport authorities will be invaluable for Etihad. Safety is our number one priority at Etihad and to have recruited someone of Mohamed's high calibre is extremely pleasing.'

Mohamed said: 'As an Emirati national, I am proud to be given the opportunity to work for the national airline of the UAE. The growth of Etihad in such a short space of time has been nothing short of remarkable and I look forward to playing my own part in the airline's future development.'

He started his career with British Airways before working for Gulf Air, Gamco, now called Abu Dhabi Aviation Technologies, and the UAE GCAA.

Mohamed holds a Bachelor of Science in General Studies and a Masters degree in Business Studies and Management. He also holds a Higher Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering. He started his new role on 1 July 2008.