As part of its long-term network growth and global expansion strategy, Etihad Airways has appointed Captain Khalid Humaid Al Ali as Senior Vice President – Aeropolitical, International and Government Affairs.
Reporting to Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government and Corporate Affairs Officer, Captain Al Ali will lead the airline’s global regulatory engagement, bilateral negotiations and government affairs strategy — a key pillar supporting route development and market access.
He joins from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), where he served as Senior Director of the Air Transport Department between 2013 and 2025. During this period, he played a central role in shaping the UAE’s air transport framework, negotiating bilateral and multilateral air service agreements, and advising the Federal Government on aviation policy.
With over 40 years of aviation experience and more than 12,000 flying hours as an Airline Transport Pilot, Captain Al Ali combines operational depth with regulatory and diplomatic expertise — a blend critical for airlines navigating evolving global air service agreements.
In his new role, he will oversee Etihad’s aeropolitical agenda worldwide, manage relationships with aviation authorities, and support strategic market access initiatives as the airline accelerates international network expansion.
The appointment signals Etihad’s intent to reinforce its institutional and policy capabilities alongside its commercial growth ambitions.
