Etihad Airways Training Center Refurbishment - Abu Dhabi

Etihad Airways was established in July 2003 and has developed into one of the fastest growing airlines in the history of commercial aviation. The airline seeks to reflect the best of Arabian hospitality – cultured, considerate, warm and generous – as well as enhance the prestige of Abu Dhabi as a center of hospitality between East and West. As a company that employs over 25,000 people, they are fast approaching their expansion goal of becoming the world’s best airline.

Summertown Interiors were appointed to deliver the refurbishment of Etihad’s training center. As a working live environment, the project required a precision led multi-phased approach to ensure continuity of operations for the client. A key project requirement for Summertown was to manage the varying department’s needs and priorities – and to maintain a 24-hour operational cycle to ensure a fast track delivery program across the three floors could be achieved.

The refurbishment comprised of the modification and upgrade of training classrooms, administration offices, pilot briefing rooms, main reception, and bathroom areas. The Pilot’s Lounge was also transformed to improve the appearance and functionality of the space. To ensure continued smooth running of the facility and minimal disruption to the client, a separate contractor’s entrance was erected for the duration of the project.

Furthermore, an extension of a mezzanine floor within the Etihad Training Academy safety mockup area in order to provide additional space for simulator and training equipment for Etihad’s cabin crew had to be added. The 250m2 extension required the erection of a steel structure from the ground floor to the second floor, along with cast on in-situ concrete to create the extended floor space.

The specialized audio-visual component complimented the basic functionality of the space on keeping in line with modernized mainstream training operations. The AV scope included the integration of specialized custom built lecterns, with projection, audio and lighting control to promote advanced classroom teaching methods. In addition, a rollout of new digital signage throughout the training academy presented live update feeds and information for staff and visitors.