UAE’s Etihad Group signs contracts with Saudi aviation operator

UAE-based Etihad Aviation Group’s Engineering and Aviation Training divisions have both signed contracts to collaborate with the Saudi-based private aviation operator, Sky Prime.

Under the first agreement signed at the Saudi Airshow, Etihad Airways Engineering and Sky Prime will collaborate in multiple areas of operation, from heavy maintenance and cabin modification support including Part 21J and Part 21G engineering services.

Etihad Airways Engineering has already delivered C-checks and cabin repairs to two VIP aircraft in the Sky Prime fleet, at its MRO facility in Abu Dhabi. Additional projects are planned over the coming months which will see the engineering team deliver a wide range of engineering solutions to Sky Prime.

“While we have been supporting luxury aviation operators locally for many years, we are now expanding our services to the VIP aviation sector across the region and beyond. Our partnership with Sky Prime is a perfect example of this expanded scope,” Abdul Khaliq Saeed, Etihad Airways Engineering CEO, said.

For the second agreement, Etihad Aviation Training (EAT) will for the first time collaborate with Sky Prime, further strengthening business ties between the two nations.

As part of the agreement, Sky Prime will dry and wet lease EAT’s Full Flight Simulators at Zayed Campus, Etihad’s training facility in Abu Dhabi. The training will be conducted by both Etihad and Sky Prime instructors.

“EAT is looking forward to welcoming Sky Prime instructors and pilots to conduct Airbus A320, A340 and Boeing 777 and 787 training at Zayed Campus. Last year was a strong year following EAT’s relaunch and we anticipate an even stronger 2019 with Sky Prime as our first Saudi Arabian partner,” Paolo La Cava, Director of EAT, said.

As part of the agreement, Crew Resource Management training, a tool for improving air safety, will also be conducted by EAT trainers for Sky Prime’s pilots and cabin crew. Sky Prime Cabin Crew will also receive recurrent training with EAT’s cabin safety trainers.