The days of basic economy, business and first class tickets are quickly becoming a thing of the past as more premium airlines follow budget airlines down the path of flexible fares.
Etihad is the latest of the major carriers to adopt tailored airfares, in a bid to meet demand for individualised pricing.
Commencing 14 September, guests of the Abu Dhabi-based airline will have access to eight ‘Fare Choices’ for economy, business and first class.
They are Economy Breaking Deals; Economy Saver; Economy Value; Economy Freedom; Business Breaking Deals; Business Saver; Business Freedom; and First Class Freedom.
According to the carrier’s Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), the new fare structure gives travellers choice and the ability to tailor their journey to their individual needs.
For example, travellers that don’t need extra luggage room can choose an option with reduced baggage allowance. Or holidaymakers looking for a catered travel experience can select an option with chauffeur service and priority check-in.
“When it comes to booking a flight, not everyone’s needs are the same.”
Peter Baumgartner, Etihad CCO
“Some guests want to travel light and on a budget, whilst others want to be able to make last-minute travel decisions, carry extra baggage or earn more miles.”
Dynamic pricing options were used as a point of difference by budget airlines at the start of the Great Financial Crisis (GFC).
They catered to the new-breed of money conscious air travellers who were willing to cut back on ancillaries in order to save a little money.
Seeing the ongoing success and increased desire for flexible fares, premium airlines have started rolling out their own flexible pricing.
Lufthansa adopted the modern-day fare structure for its European services last month, saying the new price options are more ‘transparent’.
Etihad’s ‘Fare Choices’ will apply to all bookings made on or after 14 September 2015.
Click here for a breakdown of each of the new fares.
