Etihad Airways has launched a new hand baggage-only fare in its economy class.
The Deal Fare is available on flights between Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt and Azerbaijan, and allows those who don’t want a checked bag to pay less.
It includes a complimentary carry-on baggage allowance of 7kg.
The move follows similar policies from Virgin Atlantic and British Airways, which both introduced cheaper fares when passengers opt for no checked bag – similar to the model long-since introduced by low-cost short haul carriers.
Robin Kamark, Etihad Airways chief commercial officer, said: “After a successful trial of the ‘Deal Fare’ late last year, purchasing behaviour demonstrated guests appreciate having more choice and like to be able to select the travel option that best meets their needs.
“We are enhancing our product offering to align with customer feedback. Guests travelling for business, weekend getaways or day trips who like to travel light can now avail cheaper fares.”
Guests looking to add additional checked baggage after purchasing a Deal Fare can buy extra allowance at check-in. They can add a bag for 20% cheaper when buying in advance online.
Etihad Guest members who purchase the Deal Fare get a complimentary checked baggage allowance depending on their membership. Etihad Guest Silver members get 10kg, Etihad Guest Gold members 15kg and Etihad Guest Platinum members 20kg.
New ancillary products introduced by the airline include extra legroom seats, neighbour-free seats and preferred seating.