Etihad slashes charges up to 90% in new baggage policy

Passengers travelling aboard Etihad Airways will find new changes in the airline’s baggage policy, effective for tickets issued on or after September 14.

The Abu Dhabi-based carrier has revealed plans to adopt a ‘piece concept’ baggage allowance on the majority of its routes, along with slashing excess charges up to 90 per cent on some.

Enhanced benefits for Etihad loyalty programme members has also been introduced.

In a statement, the carrier said the new baggage policy is in conjunction with the launch of its new ‘Fare Choice’ tariff structure, which will provide more choice and clarity to its passengers in terms of greater flexibility and individual customer needs.

Most routes will now operate on a piece concept basis.

This means that customers are entitled to one, two, or three bags, depending on their Fare Choice, route and Etihad Guest membership status.

As part of the policy change, the cost of excess baggage will be cut on the majority of fares.

On some routes, the cost of buying an additional 23kg piece of baggage will be reduced by up to 90 per cent, with a further reduction of up to 30 per cent if pre-purchased directly with Etihad up to 24 hours before travel.

Members of Etihad Guest will especially benefit from the new baggage concept, as higher tier members now receive an extra bag or additional weight allowance depending on the market and route.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are moving to a fair and transparent baggage concept. Our new fare choices are an easier way for guests to understand what they are paying for, offering clearer pricing, and the flexibility which best suits their travel plans. This also applies to their baggage requirements.”

New baggage policy

Passengers will now enjoy an increased allowance on economy value and economy freedom class of tickets on certain routes from 30kg to two pieces of baggage at 23kg per bag or a total allowance of 46kg.

On select routes, the economy allowance will increase for all fare choices from 30kg to two pieces of baggage at 23kg per bag.

In premium cabins on certain routes, the allowance will increase from 40/50kg to two pieces of baggage at 32kg per bag.

Etihad Gold and Platinum members will receive one extra piece of baggage at 32kg on piece concept routes, compared to 15kg and 20kg respectively previously.

For piece concept markets, Etihad Silver members now receive a minimum of two bags of 23kg.

 

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