Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, became the first airline in the world to vaccinate all pilots and all cabin crew. This is trying to reduce the spread of the virus, and passengers will be safe.
In January 2021, Etihad received Diamond status for the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the "APEX Health Safety, organized by SimpliFlying" audit. The airline's vaccination initiative has strengthened Etihad's position as an industry leader in its response to the pandemic and in keeping its employees and passengers safe.
This was made possible by the "Protected Together" vaccination initiative for Etihad employees, an initiative officially launched in January.
In 2020, Etihad took steps to support employees in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. In collaboration with the health authorities, the airline facilitated the access of front-line personnel to the UAE's "Emergency Use Program".
Etihad was one of the first employers to secure seats for front-line personnel - including pilots and cabin crew - in the Abu Dhabi vaccination program. Etihad has also ensured that Etihad Airways Medical Center has become an accredited COVID-19 vaccination clinic.
To help increase employee confidence, the Protected Together initiative includes virtual discussions to connect staff with medical staff, mobile clinics, so employees can receive the vaccine at work, and staff have access to simple and clear information about vaccine.
Following the goal of the United Arab Emirates government to vaccinate half of the population of the United Arab Emirates by the end of March 2021, Etihad is ahead of the program. The UAE currently has the second highest vaccination rate in the world.