Etihad Airways will introduce a new fare structure for tickets booked after September 14.
This will consists of eight “Fare Choices” that are split across economy, business and first class. According to the Gulf carrier, these will be transparent, and differ in terms of baggage allowance, flexibility and included benefits.
“Ultimately, this is about providing choice,” said Peter Baumgartner, chief commercial officer of Etihad Airways.
“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.”
Economy class
There will be four Fare Choices available in coach – Economy Breaking Deal, Economy Saver, Economy Value, and Economy Freedom.
Economy class
Economy Breaking Deal is the airline’s lowest fare class, and comes with a number of restrictions. This includes a mileage earn rate of only 25 per cent, the lack of being able to change or cancel flights, and not being eligible for upgrades.
On the opposite scale, Economy Freedom is the most expensive, but offers the most flexibility. For instance, passengers that have been booked in this fare class will receive a generous baggage allowance of two checked bags up to 23kg each (up from the standard single 23kg allowance), earn full 100 per cent mileage, and enjoy free date changes and cancellations.
Business class
Etihad has split its business class into three individual Fare Choices – Business Breaking Deal, Business Saver, and Business Freedom.
While all three come with a number of standard benefits such as identical checked baggage allowance (two pieces at 32kg each), lounge access and premium check-in, there are noticeable differences between each.
Business Studio
Business Breaking is the cheapest and most restricted fare class in business. The mileage accrual rate has been set at 115 per cent, this fare class is not eligible for upgrades and it does not come with Etihad Chauffeur service.
Meanwhile, Business Freedom offers the full set of business class perks. It includes mileage earn rate of 175 per cent, free flight changes, eligibility for either paid or miles upgrades to first class. Etihad Chauffeur service is also included, subject to the route.
First class
As you might expect, Etihad does not offer “cheap” first class fares; only one Fare Choice is available for its highest cabin class.
First Apartment on the A380
First Freedom offers all the bells and whistles, including free date changes and cancellation of flights, premium check-in, lounge access, and 250 per cent earn rate on Etihad Guest Miles. The Etihad Chauffeur service is also included, subject to the route.
To learn more about the different fare classes, visit etihad.com/farechoices
