Etihad Airways will introduce sweeping new baggage policy enhancements in conjunction with the launch of its new Fare Choices tariff structure (see story here), effective for tickets issued on or after 14 September.
Most routes will now operate on a piece concept basis, with customers 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 23 kilogram piece of baggage will be reduced by up to 90%, with a further reduction of up to 30% 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.
The baggage allowance for Economy Value and Economy Freedom guests on certain routes has changed from 30 kilograms to two pieces of baggage at 23 kilograms per bag – a total allowance of 46 kilograms.
On selected routes, the economy class allowance has been increased for all fare choices from 30 kilograms to two pieces of baggage at 23 kilograms per bag.
In premium cabins on certain routes, the allowance has been increased from 40 or 50 kilograms to two pieces of baggage at 32 kilograms per bag.
Etihad Gold and Platinum members will receive one extra piece of baggage at 32 kilograms on piece concept routes, compared to 15 kilograms and 20 kilograms respectively previously.
For piece concept markets, Etihad Silver members now receive a minimum of two bags of 23 kilograms.