Etihad at Special Olympics

Etihad is the sponsor of the Special Olympics IX MENA Games 2018 and Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019. The airline’s CEO Peter Baumgartner, talks on hospitality.

TT Bureau

Q) Why is Etihad Airways sponsoring the Special Olympics?
As the national carrier of the UAE, we are proud to be supporting Special Olympics for the country and the region. Through this partnership, we are providing a platform to connect with people through sports, inclusively, while displaying the warmth and hospitality of the Emirati culture. It is interesting to note that many sports included in the Special Olympics are already supported by Etihad Airways through other channels. There is football with the likes of Manchester City and Major League Soccer, cycling through Abu Dhabi Tour and ITU World Triathlon.

Q) What is Etihad’s involvement with Special Olympics? The airline will be flying in athletes, equipment, coaches, dignitaries and the media for the occasion, supported by Hala Abu Dhabi, and Etihad Cargo. Airline staff will work with Special Olympics team to share hospitality expertise.

Q) Is the airline’s involvement with Special Olympics a profit-making initiative?
It’s not a profit initiative, rather a giving initiative. Etihad will provide flight support along with several other benefits to Special Olympics. Etihad Aviation Group’s strategy follows on from the government’s three Year of Giving pillars – corporate social responsibility, volunteering and serving the nation.