Johannesburg - Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has launched a dedicated in-flight child care assistance program for families, led by the introduction of a new Flying Nanny on board long haul flights.
Identified by bright orange aprons, each Flying Nanny aims to provide a ‘helping hand’ to families and unaccompanied minors.
During the past two months 300 Etihad Airways cabin crew members have completed enhanced training for the role. A further 60 will be trained in September and 500 Flying Nannies will be working across Etihad Airways flights by the end of 2013.
The course includes in-depth training, fromNorland College, concentrating on child psychology and sociology, enabling the Flying Nannies to identify different types of behaviour and developmental stages that children go through and how to appreciate the perspective and needs of travelling families.
In addition the course also covers many different creative ways the Flying Nanny can entertain and engage with children during flights.
Aubrey Tiedt, Etihad Airways’ Vice President Guest Services, said: “Flying with a young family can be a daunting task, even for the most experienced travellers, and the Flying Nanny role demonstrates our understanding of our guests’ needs and our commitment to making the journey as relaxing and comfortable as possible.”
During the flight the Flying Nanny will utilise her specialist training, supporting the needs of families and unaccompanied minors, as well as supporting other cabin crew members when they interact with families.
Tiedt added: “The Flying Nanny will liaise with parents and use their experience and knowledge to make the travel experience easier. This includes helping serve children’s meals early in the flight and offering activities and challenges to help entertain and occupy younger guests.”
Claire Burgess, Early Years Consultant, Norland College, said: “Norland College is delighted to be a key partner in developing and delivering the Flying Nanny program with Etihad Airways as both organisations share a mutual respect for children and families.”
Many of these activities derive from a special kit which contains straws, stickers, cardboard and other items which the Flying Nanny uses to teach simple arts and crafts such as creating special greeting cards for friends and family.
The Flying Nanny will also advise families that are transiting at Abu Dhabi about the various baby changing and child facilities at the airport, as well as informing them that there is a children’s play area at Gate 32 in Terminal 3, and in the premium lounges.