Etihad appoints Dr Nadia Bastaki as VP Medical Services

Dr Bastaki (right), a UAE national, has 10 years of experience as a medical practitioner and holds several post-graduate qualifications, including a Master's degree in Occupational Medicine from Manchester University and a diploma in Aviation Medicine from King's College in London.

Since joining Etihad Airways in 2007, she has helped to position the airline as a global leader in the field of aviation medicine, while also focusing on clinical care at the Etihad Airways Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi.

As Vice President Medical Services, Dr Bastaki directly reports to Ray Gammell, Etihad Airways chief people and performance officer, with an additional reporting relationship to Captain Richard Hill, the airline's chief operations officer.

Ray Gammell said: "Dr Nadia Bastaki has been instrumental in developing the medical and broader wellbeing services that we provide to employees, which are key in positioning Etihad Airways as an employer of choice for UAE nationals and expatriates.

"As one of the region's leading specialists in aviation medicine, she will ensure a consistently high level of support to employees at a time when demand for medical services at Etihad Airways has never been greater, expanding in line with our rapid operational growth."

Dr Bastaki is the first UAE national female to be registered as an Aviation Medical Specialist with the Health Authority Abu Dhabi ( HAAD ) and currently serves as one of HAAD 's Scientific Reviewers, responsible for accrediting publications on Aviation and Occupational Medicine before general release. She is also a sitting member of the GCAA and a member of the Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) Air Transport Committee USA.

Dr Bastaki's accomplishments have been recognised by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which has presented her with a number of awards and recognitions.

Dr Bastaki said: " Etihad Airways has a reputation for raising standards in all aspects of the airline industry and that extends to the field of aviation medicine. From providing the highest standards of aviation medical services to our flight crew, to maintaining a comprehensive healthcare system for all employees, we are passionate about setting the benchmark in staff wellbeing and ensuring full compliance with GCAA and HAAD guidelines."