Etihad Airways is preparing for a busy summer, during which it plans to accommodate more than four million passengers in the next three months. This includes both local passengers from Abu Dhabi and travelers connecting from Etihad's extensive global network.
According to a report by The National, the Abu Dhabi-based airline is set to transport over four million passengers from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) between June 20th and September 30th. The peak travel period will commence on June 22nd, coinciding with Eid al-Adha and the UAE school holidays. Emirates, another UAE-based carrier, anticipates a similar surge in Dubai, while Dubai International Airport (DXB) expects to break records with over 300,000 passengers on a single day (July 2nd). Shab Al Najjar, General Manager of Hub Operations at Etihad Airways, stated:
"As we welcome guests for their summer vacations, we are also excited to receive pilgrims who are either commencing their journeys from the UAE or connecting from various destinations across our extensive network. With our award-winning cabin crew, family-friendly offerings, and cabin propositions, guests can expect exceptional travel experiences. By leveraging advanced technologies, we aim to provide a more seamless and personalized journey for our guests."
Etihad aims to triple its passenger numbers by 2030 and has experienced a 10% growth in the past year. To accommodate the increased capacity, the airline has reintroduced several Airbus A320 and Airbus A380 aircraft. Additionally, Etihad offers upgraded online check-in and self-service bag drop options.
During peak travel periods, it is advisable to complete the check-in process in advance. Etihad's online check-in and self-service bag drop feature, known as 'Home Check-In,' allows passengers to check in (including baggage) up to five hours before departure, enabling them to bypass queues. Here are the check-in options provided by Etihad during busy travel times:
- Economy passengers can check in from four hours before departure until one hour before scheduled flight time.
- Premium passengers must complete check-in at least 45 minutes before departure.
- For flights to the US, check-in closes two hours before departure. Travelers can also utilize the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility at Abu Dhabi International Airport to complete US immigration procedures before arriving in the country.
- Passengers can use the Home Check-In service on Etihad's website to check in between 24 hours and five hours prior to departure.
- City check-in facilities by Morafiq are available at Mina Zayed and Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
- Hajj travelers can check in at dedicated pilgrim counters provided by Etihad, which offer complimentary refreshments and dates.
The airline advises travelers flying during the busy summer season to arrive at the airport earlier than usual and verify their departure terminals and flight times. Etihad will operate flights to 66 destinations worldwide this summer, including Australia, Japan, and the US. Recently, the airline expanded its European network with new routes to Lisbon, Malaga, and Mykonos, and it plans to commence flights to Osaka, Düsseldorf, and Copenhagen in October.