Frequent flyers with Etihad Airways can now decide to upgrade on arrival at the airport, with the launch of instant upgrades.
Previously, members of Etihad Airways' frequent flyer programme, Etihad Guest, could only use miles to upgrade at least 48 hours in advance.
Now, members can upgrade from economy to business class at any airport on the Etihad network, as long as they have the required number of miles, there is enough time before the flight departs and seats are available.
Etihad Guest Gold members can also use miles to upgrade from business class to first class.
Barry Green, Etihad Airways’ head of customer relationship management and loyalty, said: “Being upgraded at the airport is a wonderful experience. This facility is one which people can choose to utilise as and when they feel like it and is a reward for the loyalty they have shown to Etihad Airways.”
Passengers travelling out of Abu Dhabi airport in economy can use their miles to upgrade to business class by visiting the Etihad Airways ticket counter inside the terminal. Etihad Guest Gold members can check-in for flights as normal and then proceed to the Etihad lounge where a member of Etihad staff will organise an upgrade.
At all other airports, passengers simply go to the check-in counter and submit their requests to upgrade using miles.
Click here for more information, or visit etihadairways.com
Report by Sara Turner