Calm skies

Have you ever been on a long haul flight (or even a sort one) and heard the dreaded screams or felt the kick kick kick of your airline seat and thought – why can’t they keep their children in check? Have you ever thought, who on earth comes on a flight with nothing to occupy their children???

Imagine an airline who actually employs nannies to help occupy the children on the flight. That would not only make the children’s flying experience more pleasant, but could make a whole aircraft whoop with joy. Well over the last few years Etihad Airways have made that dream a reality. Your ears may bleed no more, and you can relax without fear of getting a stray foot in the back.

Etihad have put their cabin crew through their paces with enhanced training in partnership with the U.K.’s prestigious nanny school Norland College. The nannies will be clearly identified by bright orange aprons and their aim is to provide a helping hand to families and unaccompanied minors. They are available on board long haul and extra long haul flights in all the classes from Economy right up to First Class.

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.”

Activities on board include:

• Arts, crafts & origami
• Hand puppets
• Drawing competition
• Face paints
• Paper crowns and pilot hats
• Certificates for young flyers

Etihad have also created four collectable characters –  Zoe the Bee, Jamool the Camel, Kundai the Lion and Boo the Panda – to help keep the children entertained. They also haven’t forgotten the older kids with quizzes, challenges and tours of the galley.

So with many airlines offering flights to meet up with Cruise ships, especially the exotic World Cruise Sectors, I know which one I would be considering first!!