Travelling internationally in a post-pandemic world surely is a different experience. The situation remains highly dynamic as countries have different restrictions, various quarantine measures are in place and guidelines are constantly updated by governments and regulatory health bodies as the scenario changes. You may also have a host of other queries, from planning your journey and flexibility in bookings to inflight sanitisation and health measures taken by the airline.
To make this process easier, Etihad Airways offers a host of initiatives that help you plan your next trip. The airline has prioritised passengers’ wellness and thoughtfully introduced a host of different measures which will not only help them plan their travels seamlessly but also ensure that they can fly with peace of mind.
100 per cent of Etihad’s crew onboard have been vaccinated
Etihad became the first airline in the world with all its operating pilots and cabin crew vaccinated to help curb the spread of Covid-19 and give passengers who travel with the airline added assurance of safety. The airline’s vaccination initiative consolidated its position as an industry leader in its response to the pandemic and in keeping its employees and travellers safe.
Covid-19 insurance within the cost of the flight ticket
If any passenger is diagnosed with Covid-19 during their trip, they won’t have to worry about medical expenses or quarantine costs when they fly with Etihad. The airline has introduced a global Covid-19 wellness insurance as part of its health and hygiene programme, Etihad Wellness and this is currently included with every Etihad ticket. The insurance is automatically effective following the first flight outside of the guest’s home country and is valid for 31 days, or upon return to their home country if earlier.
Wellness Ambassador on every flight
Etihad has introduced specially trained Wellness Ambassadors, a first in the industry, who will provide essential travel health information and care so guests can fly with greater peace of mind. They are available 24/7 pre-departure, at Abu Dhabi International Airport and on board every flight to offer reassurance by sharing advice on travel wellbeing and details of the health and sanitisation measures being implemented throughout the guest’s journey.
Tech and digital-first solutions
Due to the pandemic, there has been an accelerated growth in digitalising experiences and ensuring contactless travel for guests, with their safety and wellness in mind. Technology will continue to be a driving force, creating new avenues in the post-pandemic world. Etihad leads the industry in creating, testing and implementing technologies that make travel safer, more sustainable, more enjoyable and with passenger wellness as the priority. The airline has also been working with a variety of different companies, some within the industry, some outside of it, to develop technology required for a global health certification system. Most recently, it has partnered with the International Air Transport Association to launch the IATA Travel Pass for its guests. This offering, currently under trial, will help passengers easily and securely manage their travel in line with government requirements for Covid-19 tests or vaccines.
Flexible booking options
In case you have an existing booking and your travel plans have changed, you can rebook your flight at a later date for free in the same fare class. If you have booked directly with Etihad, you can cancel your trip and save it for later with Etihad Credit. The airline will reward you with up to US$400 and up to 5,000 Etihad Guest Miles. The airline is also allowing unlimited changes on all new bookings to give you more freedom and flexibility.
Charter flight services
Etihad has expanded its business with the launch of charter and special flight services. Fully customisable, business and leisure travellers can choose from a variety of flight options including a dedicated passenger service, cargo only flight or a combined passenger and cargo package. These charter flights provide a convenient alternative to travel, providing customers with the flexibility to choose the departure time, destination and routing.
