Etihad Airways, the United Arab Emirates' national carrier, is undergoing a leadership change following the departure of Chief Operating Officer Mohammad Al Bulooki.
Bulooki, who has held several leadership positions with the airline since 2015, announced his decision to step down to pursue other opportunities. An Etihad spokesperson confirmed the news, stating, "We can confirm that Mohammad Al Bulooki is stepping down from his position as COO to pursue other interests." The spokesperson added, "This follows a long and storied career at Etihad, where he held several managerial and executive roles."
Bulooki's tenure as COO coincided with a period of significant change for Etihad. The airline, once known for its aggressive expansion strategy, has undergone a course correction in recent years, focusing on profitability and streamlining operations. Bulooki played a key role in this shift, overseeing a restructuring of the airline's commercial division and spearheading efforts to optimize its network and fleet.
John Wright, a former Etihad executive who served as the airline's vice president of network, airports, and cargo operations from 2013 to an undisclosed date, will assume the role of interim COO. Wright brings a wealth of experience to the position, having played a critical role in Etihad's past operational successes. The airline has also initiated a global search for a permanent replacement for Bulooki.
Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves, in a memo to staff obtained by travel industry publication Skift, acknowledged Bulooki's contributions. "Mohammad has been an integral part of our journey since the inception of our company," Neves wrote. He continued, "We are grateful for his dedication and leadership over the years, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors."
While the reasons behind Bulooki's departure remain undisclosed, his exit comes at a pivotal time for Etihad. The airline industry continues to grapple with the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with rising fuel costs and ongoing geopolitical tensions. Etihad, like many of its competitors, is facing pressure to adapt and innovate in order to secure its long-term success.
The appointment of Wright as interim COO suggests a desire for continuity within Etihad's leadership. Wright's familiarity with the airline's operations will be crucial during this transitional period. However, the search for a permanent replacement for Bulooki underscores Etihad's commitment to finding the right leader to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.