Etihad has announced a set of changes to its ground and in-flight services, including the discontinuation of complimentary chauffeur transfers at most international destinations.
The airline says the changes are “designed to offer increased value and flexibility based on customer feedback.” These updates are part of a broader effort to align Etihad’s product and service offerings with traveler priorities and to provide more optional choices for passengers.
Under the previous policy, passengers traveling in business and first class were eligible for a complimentary chauffeur service at international destinations. Going forward, that complimentary chauffeur service will remain available at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) and will continue for guests booked in Etihad’s premium The Residence cabins on Airbus A380 services to London (LHR), Paris (CDG) and New York (JFK). The revised policy takes effect on July 3; any tickets issued prior to that date will not be impacted.
Alongside the chauffeur update, Etihad is introducing a number of optional, paid enhancements intended to give passengers more control over their travel experience:
- Economy passengers will have the option to purchase access to Etihad lounges.
- Business-class travelers flying to or from Abu Dhabi will be able to buy upgrades to first-class lounges and spas when available.
- Economy customers may place bids for up to three adjacent empty seats to improve comfort, subject to availability and cabin configuration.
Mohammad Al Bulooki, Executive Vice President of Commercial at Etihad Airways, said the airline continually reviews its services to focus on the elements most valued by guests. He explained that the chauffeur service adjustments are part of that review and noted that Abu Dhabi remains an exception because of the high utilization of the service there.
These changes aim to give travelers clearer, more flexible options while allowing Etihad to concentrate complimentary services where they are most used. Passengers affected by the updates should review their bookings and the airline’s terms to understand how the new options and the July 3 start date might apply to their travel plans.
The airline’s announcement emphasizes that the overall intent is to evolve Etihad’s product proposition while continuing to accommodate individual customer needs and preferences, offering paid additions where beneficial and retaining select complimentary services in high-use locations.