Etihad Airlines is currently offering some attractive fares to several European capital cities for under AU$6,000. The offer is valid for travel between 15 February and 30 April 2024 and is only available for the next two days, ending on Thursday, 8 February. While these may be considered “secondary” capitals, the affordable prices make it a great deal for travelers.
Etihad Business Class on the A350 is the aircraft of choice for these flights. The airline sent out an email to its frequent flyer members, the Etihad Guest scheme, with sample fares for various destinations. Some of the fares include Barcelona for AU$5,978, Dublin for AU$7,586, Madrid for AU$5,978, Manchester for AU$5,992, Milan for AU$5,977, and Zurich for AU$5,979. These fares are based on 360,000 miles or 340,000 miles, depending on the destination.
Comparing these fares to other options available, it is clear that the Etihad offer is quite competitive. A quick search on Google reveals that there are no Business Class fares under AU$7,000 for Barcelona, and most of them include two stops. Therefore, the Etihad offer provides a significant cost-saving opportunity for travelers.
It is important to note that the benefits and privileges associated with the Business Class fare may vary based on the category chosen. The lowest-priced Business Class fare might not include all the privileges offered with higher fares. For example, the chauffeur service may not be available, and frequent flyer earnings may be reduced. Additionally, there are blackout periods during which these fares may not be available. Flexibility with departure and arrival dates is advised to take advantage of the offer.
Etihad is also promoting a Status Match program, allowing members to match their status with Etihad Silver or Gold. However, there are limitations and conditions to consider. Only Silver and Gold status can be matched, not Platinum. Etihad Guest Silver offers benefits such as priority check-in, additional baggage, and a 25% bonus on eligible flights. Etihad Guest Gold provides priority check-in, additional baggage, a 50% bonus on points, and global access to Etihad Airways and partner lounges, including Virgin Australia and the new Business Class lounge in Abu Dhabi. It is worth noting that Etihad’s top tier status cannot be matched with other airlines, such as Qantas Platinum.
This promotion is primarily targeting frequent flyers in Australia and India. Members of various frequent flyer programs are eligible for the Status Match, including popular ones in Australia. To apply for the status match, interested individuals must first join the Etihad Guest program and complete the status match application. The request will be processed within five working days. A fee of US$59 (~AUD$91) for Silver applicants or US$99 (~AUD$153) for Gold applicants is required, which grants three months of upgraded status. To extend the status for an additional nine months, at least one eligible flight with Etihad Airways must be completed during the initial three-month period. Etihad has an impressive list of partner airlines, including Air NZ, ANA, Garuda, Korean, and Virgin Australia.
In conclusion, if you are planning to travel with Etihad in the next three months or take advantage of their current sale offer, it is worth considering the status match program. While most of the privileges are already available to Business Class passengers, having a higher status can enhance the travel experience, especially when flying in a lower class.