Etihad Airways Shares Essential Travel Tips For Busy Spring And Summer Holiday Periods

Travel Smarter With Etihad's Expert Advice

As several holiday periods approach from March to August, Etihad Airways anticipates a notable rise in travelers at Zayed International Airport. To help ensure a seamless beginning to their journey, the airline is urging guests to plan ahead and make use of its extensive digital services. The airline foresees exceptionally high passenger numbers during the School Spring Break (20 March-13 April), Eid Al Fitr (late March), Hajj Season (May), Eid Al Adha (early June), and the School Summer Break (28 June-24 August).

Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Etihad Airways Interim Chief Operations & Guest Officer, said: "We're preparing to welcome thousands of additional guests during these peak periods. Our teams are fully prepared to ensure every journey begins smoothly, and we recommend travellers take advantage of our numerous check-in options and digital tools to enjoy a relaxed start to their holidays."

Etihad Airways has compiled essential tips to help guests prepare for their travels:

Flight Information and Updates

Staying informed is key during busy travel periods. Guests can easily access the latest flight information through the Manage My Booking section on etihad.com or via the mobile app, where they can view or modify flight details, select seats, and access various other services.

Early Check-in Options

To avoid potential queues, guests are strongly encouraged to arrive at the airport at least four hours before departure during peak periods. For added convenience, Etihad offers multiple early check-in options:

Online check-in starts 48 hours prior to departure and can be accessed via etihad.com or the mobile app. Once online check-in is completed, guests can utilize the numerous automated self-service bag drop kiosks at the terminal to weigh and tag their bags, receiving their boarding pass in less than a minute.

Several off-airport check-in and bag-drop facilities are also available at:

• Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal (open 24 hours)
• The Fountains – YAS Mall (open from 10am to 10pm)
• Mussafah (open from 10am to 10pm) at 38 Al Arzaq Street, Behind Al Madina Hypermarket
• Al Ain (open from 10am till 10pm) at Lulu Hypermarket Kuwaitat, Shakhboot Bin Sultan St

Home Check-in and Land & Leave Services

For maximum convenience, guests can begin their journey with home check-in via MORAFIQ, which is offered up to five hours before departure. Starting from AED 185, this service includes baggage check-in, seat selection, and the delivery of boarding passes to their doorstep. Upon returning to Abu Dhabi, the Land & Leave service ensures a hassle-free arrival experience. Guests can go directly to their destination while MORAFIQ manages the delivery of their bags to any Abu Dhabi location within three hours of landing. These services can be booked through the MORAFIQ app or website.

Pre-purchase Travel Options

On etihad.com, travelers can purchase enhanced comfort options during the busy holiday season. Economy Extra Legroom provides additional space to relax, while the Neighbour-free Seat option is available for selection at least 72 hours before departure. Additionally, guests can improve their pre-flight experience by purchasing access to the First and Business Class Lounge, which can be obtained up to 90 minutes before their flight.

Baggage Policy

Economy Class passengers may carry 7kg of hand luggage, while First and Business Class passengers are allowed 12kg. The size of cabin baggage must not exceed 50cm in height, 25cm in depth, and 40cm in width. Extra checked baggage can be added at discounted rates via Etihad's website or mobile app prior to departure.

US Pre-clearance Facility

Travelers heading to U.S. destinations should check in at Terminal A at least four hours before their flight. Business and Residence guests must arrive at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance facility 90 minutes before their flight. At the same time, other travellers should get there two hours in advance. Please note that the facility closes one hour before flight departure. For further details and to plan your next trip, visit etihad.com or download the Etihad Airways mobile app.