Etihad Airways has appointed Linda Celestino as the airline’s vice president guest services.

Celestino has more than 25 years’ experience in the airline industry having held senior positions in her native Australia and the Middle East, as well as being president of the New York-based Airline Passenger Experience Association.

Most recently, Celestino was general manager in-flight services and product at Oman Air where she was responsible for cabin crew selection and training, as well as the guest experience.

Rick Allen, Etihad Airways senior vice president, operations, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Linda to Etihad Airways.

“She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this crucial role which focuses on one of the most important aspects of our business – the guest.”

Celestino started her career as cabin crew at Ansett Australia, progressing to become a senior manager in guest services and guest experience.

As president of the Airline Passenger Experience Association in New York, she played an important role in setting new standards of guest experience and service on an international level.

At Etihad Airways, Celestino will be responsible for 6,000 cabin crew to ensure safe, inspired, consistent and innovative services, both on-board and across the airline’s global lounges.

She said: “It is a tremendous privilege to be appointed Vice President Guest Services for Etihad Airways.

“The airline has established itself as a world leader and pioneer in the hospitality and aviation industries and I’m excited to begin work with my new team and building the guest offering even further.”

Celestino takes over the post of vice president guest services from Aubrey Tiedt who has moved to a new role as chief customer officer at Alitalia.