Etihad Airways will introduce a new fares structure and baggage allowance policy next month.
From September 14, passengers flying with the Gulf carrier will have eight fares to choose from.
These are: economy breaking deals, economy saver, economy value and economy freedom; business breaking deals, business saver and business freedom; while in first class the only fare will be freedom.
The different fares will allow passengers "to tailor their bookings to their individual needs... are transparent and differ in baggage allowance, flexibility and included benefits that otherwise need to be purchased separately", Etihad said.
Full details of each fare can be viewed at etihad.com/farechoices.
Etihad is also changing its baggage policy on September 14.
From that date, the maximum dimensions allowed will be as follows:
- To/from Brazil, Canada and the US - 50 x 70 x 38cm
- To/from all other destinations - 45 x 72 x 90cm
On flights to the UK, the allowance for passengers flying in economy will be two bags weighing up to 23 kilograms each; while in both business and first, it will be two bags weighing up to 32 kilograms each.
Full details of the new baggage allowances can be viewed here.
Etihad CCO Peter Baumgartner said: "Ultimately, this is about providing choice. In most industries there is a move towards allowing customers to tailor and customise their experience, and ours is no different.
"When it comes to booking a flight, not everyone's needs are the same. Some guests want to travel light and on a budget, whilst others want to be able to make last-minute travel decisions, carry extra baggage or earn more miles.
"For example, if a guest wants more flexibility, more luggage, and priority check in, they can select our economy freedom fare choice."
Etihad is moving towards an all-A380 operation to London Heathrow after adding a third superjumbo on to the route last weekend (see news, August 17).
Graham Smith
