Etihad Airways | Abu Dhabi
Introduction
Are you passionate about aviation, data analysis, and airline network strategy?
Etihad Airways is currently hiring a Network Planning Analyst to join its Cargo Division in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the optimization and growth of one of the Middle East’s leading air cargo networks.
Working within Etihad Cargo, you will help design, analyze, and optimize cargo schedules, fleet utilization, and network performance while supporting the airline’s long-term growth strategy.
Job Overview
Job Title: Network Planning Analyst
Company: Etihad Airways
Division: Etihad Cargo
Location: Abu Dhabi
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Aviation & Air Cargo
Experience Required: Minimum 3 years
Education: Bachelor’s Degree (Postgraduate qualification preferred)
About the Role
As a Network Planning Analyst, you will play a key role in developing and optimizing Etihad Cargo’s global freighter network.
The position focuses on schedule planning, capacity optimization, fleet utilization, profitability analysis, and stakeholder coordination to ensure the cargo network operates efficiently and profitably.
This role combines strategic planning, commercial analysis, and operational coordination within a fast-paced airline environment.
Key Responsibilities
Network Planning & Schedule Development
- Manage freighter schedule development and optimization
- Support current and future IATA season planning
- Maintain operational integrity and schedule reliability
- Ensure on-time performance targets are achieved
- Develop annual budget schedules
- Support 5-year and 10-year network planning initiatives
Capacity Optimization
- Analyze cargo capacity utilization
- Recommend network improvements to maximize profitability
- Support fleet allocation and deployment decisions
- Monitor and manage capacity changes across the network
- Balance freighter and belly cargo capacity utilization
Profitability Analysis
- Analyze route performance and profitability
- Evaluate tactical and strategic network opportunities
- Recommend frequency and fleet adjustments
- Support revenue optimization initiatives
Stakeholder Management
Work closely with:
- Network Planning teams
- Revenue Management
- Alliances & Partnerships
- Flight Operations
- Government Affairs
- Finance
- Corporate Communications
Charter Operations
- Evaluate ad-hoc charter opportunities
- Ensure charter activities add commercial value
- Protect operational stability while maximizing revenue opportunities
Slot Portfolio Management
- Protect and enhance airport slot holdings
- Ensure timely and accurate schedule publication
- Support regulatory and operational compliance
Required Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant discipline
- Postgraduate studies are considered an advantage
Experience
- Minimum 3 years of airline industry experience
- Experience in network planning or scheduling
- Cargo airline experience is highly desirable
Required Skills
Successful candidates should possess:
- Strong analytical abilities
- Strategic planning skills
- Data interpretation expertise
- Problem-solving capabilities
- Negotiation skills
- Stakeholder management skills
- Commercial awareness
- Communication skills
- Attention to detail
Preferred Technical Knowledge
Experience with:
- Airline scheduling systems
- Network planning tools
- Capacity management
- Fleet planning concepts
- Revenue optimization methodologies
- Route profitability analysis
- Cargo operations
Why Join Etihad Cargo?
Working for Etihad Airways offers exposure to one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
Benefits include:
- International aviation experience
- Career growth opportunities
- Exposure to strategic airline planning
- Global cargo network operations
- Dynamic multicultural work environment
- Participation in Etihad’s Journey 2030 growth strategy
Career Progression Opportunities
This role can lead to positions such as:
- Senior Network Planning Analyst
- Cargo Network Planning Manager
- Fleet Planning Specialist
- Revenue Management Manager
- Route Development Manager
- Cargo Commercial Manager
- Network Strategy Manager
Living and Working in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is one of the Middle East’s leading business and aviation hubs.
Benefits include:
- Tax-free income
- Modern infrastructure
- International working environment
- Excellent healthcare facilities
- High quality of life
- Strong aviation industry presence
Ideal Candidate Profile
The strongest candidates will have:
- Airline network planning experience
- Strong analytical and financial skills
- Experience interpreting operational and commercial data
- Understanding of airline scheduling processes
- Ability to collaborate across departments
- Interest in cargo and logistics operations
Application Tips
To strengthen your application:
- Highlight airline scheduling experience
- Showcase network planning achievements
- Include route analysis or profitability projects
- Demonstrate experience with aviation analytics
- Quantify business improvements where possible
- Mention cargo industry exposure if applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cargo experience mandatory?
No. However, exposure to airline cargo operations is considered a strong advantage.
How much experience is required?
A minimum of 3 years of airline network planning or scheduling experience is preferred.
Is a degree required?
Yes. A Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is expected.
What are the key skills for success?
Strategic thinking, analytical capability, stakeholder management, and airline planning knowledge.
Is this a commercial or operational role?
It combines both commercial and operational aspects, focusing on network optimization and profitability.
Final Thoughts
The Network Planning Analyst position at Etihad Cargo offers an excellent opportunity for aviation professionals seeking to build expertise in airline network strategy, cargo operations, and capacity optimization.
For candidates with airline planning experience and strong analytical skills, this role provides valuable exposure to global cargo operations while contributing to the growth of one of the region’s leading aviation organizations.
To apply for this job please visit jobs.smartrecruiters.com.
