SAUDIA and the University of Prince Mugrin recently came together to commemorate a significant milestone: the graduation ceremony of the inaugural class of graduates from their collaborative 'In-Flight Chef Program'. In a grand gathering, esteemed dignitaries graced the occasion, including the distinguished presence of His Excellency, Dr. Bandar Hajjar, the President of the University of Prince Mugrin, and the esteemed presence of His Excellency, Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, the Director General of SAUDIA Group.
The program offered participants a comprehensive and rigorous training experience in various aspects of the field. Trainees were exposed to both theoretical and practical training, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their roles. This included learning about on-board service procedures, adhering to aviation safety standards, and gaining a deep understanding of the Saudi culinary and hospitality industries.
In a recent statement, Mr. Ahmed Babtain, the esteemed Vice President of Human Resources at SAUDIA, shed light on the current state of the aviation industry. He emphasized the fierce competition that is currently gripping the sector, highlighting the crucial role of delivering top-notch service while upholding the highest standards. This, according to Mr. Babtain, has emerged as a pivotal factor in setting airlines apart from one another. The 'In-Flight Chef Program' is touted as a game-changer, offering a distinct advantage by offering an unparalleled guest experience.
In a recent interview, Razan Yousef, a distinguished in-flight chef at SAUDIA, expressed her immense pride in being a vital contributor to the renowned 'In-Flight Chef Program'. This groundbreaking initiative has empowered Razan and her fellow colleagues to elevate the culinary experience for passengers, ensuring the delivery of top-notch cuisine even at soaring altitudes. Passionate about delivering an extraordinary culinary experience that embodies both our vibrant cultural heritage and Sauda's unwavering commitment to exceptional hospitality and service, I strive to offer dishes that surpass expectations.
In 2022, a noteworthy achievement will have been accomplished as a grand total of 35 talented chefs will have successfully completed the prestigious 'In-Flight Chef Program'. Saudai, the renowned airline, has made significant strides in diversifying its workforce by employing a remarkable 185 in-flight chefs. This move has not only bolstered the airline's culinary offerings but has also resulted in a substantial increase in the representation of Saudi nationals in this esteemed position. Previously, Saudi nationals accounted for a mere 3% of in-flight chefs, but with this recent development, their presence has surged to an impressive 22%. The esteemed national flag carrier has successfully established connections across four continents, boasting an impressive network of over 100 destinations worldwide. Notably, the airline prides itself on operating one of the most modern and youthful fleets in the aviation industry. With a fleet of 142 aircraft, the airline boasts a diverse range of modern Airbus and Boeing narrow- and wide-body jets.