Etihad Airways is increasing its family-friendly services by introducing dedicated in-flight child-care assistants on long-haul routes.
Known as Flying Nannies and identifiable by their bright orange aprons, these in-flight child-care assistants support families and unaccompanied minors throughout the journey. They help introduce children to Etihad’s range of characters — Zoe the Bee, Jamool the Camel, Kundai the Lion, and Boo the Panda — and provide age-appropriate activities to keep young travelers engaged.
To prepare for this role, 300 members of Etihad’s cabin crew have completed enhanced training tailored to in-flight childcare, and a further 60 crew members are undergoing training this month. Etihad aims to have 500 Flying Nannies serving on long-haul flights by the end of 2013.
The training program, provided by Norland College, covers child psychology and developmental stages so that nannies can recognize and respond to different behaviors and needs. The curriculum also focuses on creative ways to entertain children during flights, from interactive games and storytelling to craft activities and calming techniques for infants and toddlers.
“The Flying Nanny will liaise with parents and use their experience and knowledge to make the travel experience easier,” said Aubrey Tiedt, vice president guest services, Etihad Airways. “This includes helping serve children’s meals early in the flight and offering activities and challenges to help entertain and occupy younger guests.”
By adding trained child-care specialists to the cabin crew, Etihad aims to reduce stress for traveling families, assist parents with practical tasks, and create a more enjoyable experience for young passengers. The Flying Nannies can offer guidance on seating arrangements, support during boarding and disembarkation, and suggestions for keeping routines consistent while in the air.
In addition to hands-on assistance, Flying Nannies are equipped to recommend quiet activities and sensory tools that help children settle, particularly on long overnight flights. Their presence is intended to complement the care parents provide, offering short-term relief and professional support when needed.
The initiative highlights Etihad’s broader focus on guest services and family travel, positioning the airline as attentive to the needs of parents and children traveling internationally. With the rollout of the Flying Nanny program across more long-haul services, families can expect a more relaxed and organized travel experience.
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