Etihad Airways is offering Australians a fast-track to Etihad Guest Gold status with an exclusive status match program in a bid to strengthen its loyalty base in what it calls a key market. Eligible flyers from seven competing airlines can jump straight into the perks of Gold status for six months, with just one return flight needed to extend the benefits for a year.
How the status match works
The status match is available to Gold-level members from seven airlines: Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Virgin Australia, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, and Air India.
Eligible members who qualify for the status match will receive Etihad Guest Gold status for six months. To retain this status for an additional 12 months, members must complete one return flight with Etihad during the initial six-month period.
Travellers can submit their requests online via Etihad Status Match, with applications processed within a week. However, the offer is available for a limited time, so early applications are encouraged.
For those unable to secure a Gold match, Etihad Airways also offers a Silver status match for a small fee.
“Australia is central to our network, and we want to demonstrate this through a special Status Match, with the expansion of services underscoring our investment and dedication to those down under.” Javier Alija, Etihad Airways’ Vice President of Global Sales & Distribution, said.
What does Etihad Guest Gold offer?
Etihad Guest Gold comes with a range of benefits designed to enhance the travel experience, especially for long-haul passengers. Key perks include:
- Priority services: Faster check-in and boarding for smoother journeys.
- Lounge access: Entry to Etihad’s premium lounges at key airports worldwide.
- Additional baggage: More room for luggage without the extra fees.
- Bonus miles: Increased earning potential on Etihad flights.
These benefits can make a significant difference for frequent travellers, especially those connecting through Abu Dhabi or other long-haul hubs.
Etihad’s Aussie push
This move comes on the back of Etihad Airways’ decision to end its long-standing codeshare and frequent flyer partnership with Virgin Australia, effective 1 June 2025. From that date, travellers will no longer be able to book Virgin Australia-operated flights via Etihad, and Etihad Guest members won’t earn miles on Virgin Australia flights. While existing bookings will remain unaffected, this shift marks a significant change in Etihad’s Australian strategy as the airline doubles down on its direct operations and concrete plans to expand Etihad’s presence Down Under.
Starting in March 2025, Melbourne travellers will have access to eight flights a week to Abu Dhabi, while Sydney will see its frequency increase to ten weekly services by July. These additional services cater to a rising demand from the Australian market, the airline reporting a 93% outbound load factor and an 89% inbound rate.
Abu Dhabi stopover
Travellers flying with Etihad Airways will also have the chance to transform their layover in Abu Dhabi into a memorable part of their journey. The airline’s Abu Dhabi Stopover program offers a unique opportunity to explore the capital of the UAE.
Travellers can take advantage of complimentary hotel stays for up to two nights, with options ranging from standard accommodations to premium five-star properties. Travellers can also opt for three- or four-night packages in premium hotels.
Terms and Conditions:
- Bookable on select fare brands.
- Applicable on new bookings only.
- Stopover is eligible for layovers between 24 and 96 hours.
- Codeshare flights are not applicable.
- Stopover fee or hotel fee is non-refundable for voluntary changes.
- Blackout dates apply.
Australian trade partners can start booking this offer from 25 November 2024, with stays commencing from 9 December 2024.
