I’m not sure why an airline hasn’t thought of this before – an onboard “supernanny” to help parents with their kids while flying, and unaccompanied minors.

So well done to Etihad Airways for doing just that – introducing the Flying Nanny on board long-haul flights to help out. The Flying Nannies wear bright orange aprons, are specifically trained for the role (their training includes child psychology and sociology too).

So what might a nanny do each flight? She will play with the kids, support parents with what they need, help out the crew with communicating and assisting the families. Towards the end of the flight the Flying Nanny will help parents by replenishing milk bottles, and giving out snacks, fruit and water.

For younger kids, there are arts, crafts, making of sock puppets and learning of magic tricks, and for older kids there are quizzes and tours of the galley.

It sounds like a brilliant concept, and I’m sure it will take off, so to speak!