Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has appointed George Mawadri as its new General Manager in Nigeria, where he will be responsible for growing Etihad Airways’ relationships with its travel trade and corporate customers while furthering the development of the airline’s commercial strategy in Nigeria.

George brings a vast amount of airline experience and knowledge to the position having served with British Airways for 19 years in Uganda, Kenya and Zambia in the East and Central Africa region, as well as the surrounding feeder markets of Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Sudan and South Sudan.

“I am excited to take on this new role with Etihad Airways in one of the airline’s most dynamic markets,” said George Mawadri. “I look forward to working with the team to find new and innovative ways of expanding our strategic corporate and trade partnerships, strengthening our commercial ties and providing our guests with Etihad Airways’ world-class service, comfort, and hospitality.”

Danny Barranger, Etihad Airways’ Senior Vice President, Global Sales, said: “I am delighted that George will be leading our team in Nigeria to grow our business there. His extensive commercial experience and successful track record in the African aviation industry will beinvaluable as he continues to develop awareness of Etihad Airways, making him the ideal candidate for this important position.”

Etihad Airways launched its service between Lagos and Abu Dhabi on 1 July 2012 and currently operates four-times-per-week using an Airbus A330-200 aircraft configured to carry 254 guests, 18 in Business Class and 236 in Economy Class.