Tributes pour in for former Etihad Airways

Leading figures from the Middle East aviation industry have paid tribute to former Etihad Airways CEO Robert W. Strodel, who passed away on August 18, 2011. The industry veteran was celebrated for a 30-year career with Lufthansa German Airlines and was responsible for founding Lufthansa Cargo India in 1996. He joined Etihad Airways as head of cargo in April 2004 and was promoted to chief executive officer in July 2005. Following a year in the position, he resigned in May 2006 and was replaced by the national carrier’s current CEO James Hogan. Strodel later worked with companies including India’s Flyington Freighters and Russia’s Air Bridge Cargo (ABC).“It is with sadness that we have learned of the death of former Etihad executive Robert Strodel, who passed away suddenly on Thursday 18th August 2011,” a spokesperson for the Abu Dhabi-based airline said. “His contribution to our business in its start-up phase will be remembered by those who worked alongside him.” Former colleague Ingo Roessler, who worked with Strodel for three years as Etihad’s head of cargo, praised his former manager’s sense of humour. “Robert was a great strategist and hands-on manager with a 'can-do' attitude,” he said. “I experienced his professionalism and business acumen during the challenging times of building up Etihad Crystal Cargo from scratch. His sense of humour made it fun to work with him and he was true in keeping his promises to partners and staff. This is a personal loss to me and also to the community.”Saleh Al Aroud, chairman of Sharjah-based Rus Aviation, described Strodel as a “nice, generous and frank man”. “His death is a great and irretrievable loss for all who knew him," he said. From / Arabian Business News