Etihad’s Huda Al Musallami Becomes First Emirati Woman Training Captain

Captain Huda Al Musallami has become the first Emirati woman to qualify as a training captain in the UAE, marking a significant milestone for the country’s aviation sector. Etihad Airways announced the achievement as part of its celebrations marking Emirati Women’s Day.

In her new role, Al Musallami is responsible for training and qualifying pilots to the highest standards of safety and professionalism, helping prepare the next generation of aviation professionals.

Al Musallami began her aviation career in 2003 and joined Etihad Airways in 2014. She progressed from First Officer to Captain in 2023 and qualified as a Type Rating Instructor in 2026.

She currently holds a type rating for the Boeing 787 and has accumulated more than 10,000 flying hours. During her career, she has also flown Airbus A330, A340 and Boeing 777 aircraft.

Beyond her flying experience, Al Musallami holds a Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management and a Master's degree in Business Management and Information Systems.

Reflecting on the milestone, Al Musallami said becoming the first was about creating opportunities for those who follow.

“Being the first means stepping forward before there is a path to follow,” she said, adding that the experience involved navigating challenges with purpose and determination.

“For me, being first was never about the title. It is about making sure I am not the last, and opening the way for more Emirati women to rise, excel and go even further,” she added.

As a training captain, Al Musallami now works with pilots from different nationalities and with varying levels of experience. Her role places her at the centre of Etihad’s efforts to develop highly skilled aviation professionals.

Dr Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, described the achievement as an example of what can be achieved when talent, determination and opportunity come together.

She said Al Musallami’s milestone reflects the UAE leadership’s vision of empowering Emirati women, as well as Etihad’s continued efforts to develop national talent across the aviation industry.

Emirati women currently account for 75 per cent of UAE nationals within Etihad’s workforce and contribute across a wide range of areas, including flight operations, engineering and senior leadership.

Etihad said it will continue investing in the development of Emirati women across aviation, engineering and leadership, with the aim of creating further opportunities for the next generation.

Al Musallami’s achievement comes as the UAE celebrates Emirati Women’s Day, highlighting the growing participation of Emirati women in specialised and leadership roles and their contribution to the country’s continued development.