Etihad Airways, the flagship carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has partnered with technology firm Astra Tech to offer a new way for customers to book flights using artificial intelligence-powered chat app, Botim. Customers can activate the generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) AI technology by typing in basic service requirements, which will complete their booking. The service allows passengers to book Etihad flights by providing simple travel details. Astra Tech’s acquisition of Botim allows access to its 90 million registered users. Etihad Airways is devoted to overseeing all standard requirements for luggage restrictions and cancellations, and charges an additional 10% of an adult fare plus taxes for every child under age two. The chat app bookings are intended to add to the airline’s services, enhancing accessibility and convenience for customers.
Etihad unveils new seating options for upcoming Dreamliner fleet
Etihad Airways has announced that its upcoming Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will feature new business-class and economy-class seating options, with delivery anticipated in 2023. The business class will include customised versions of Collins Aerospace’s Elements seat, featuring higher walls for improved guest privacy. The seats will be set out in a 1-2-1 configuration, with a 78-inch lie-flat bed, 17.3-inch 4K TV screens, a range of charging ports, wireless charging and plenty of storage areas. Economy seating will be provided for 271 passengers, with 13.3-inch 4K touchscreen monitors, USB charging ports and lighter seating. The aircraft will include Wi-Fi connectivity via Viasat. Etihad Airways offers one fully collapsible pushchair for babies on board, weighing up to 23kg. Coral Economy can carry one piece of 7kg, Pearl Business Class and Diamond First Class can carry two pieces of 12kg each. An additional piece is allowed for baby essentials, but it must not exceed 6 kg in weight and 115 cm in total dimensions. Bassinets are available on a first-come-first-served basis and must be booked at least 24 hours before departure. Pregnant travellers must adhere to specific guidelines for travelling, including the age of pregnancy and the requirement of a medical certificate issued by a physician, along with wearing compression stockings and elevating feet during the flight.
Etihad Airways is renowned for high-quality service and is expected to extend an unmatchable customer experience through the new seating options. The additions are likely to draw greater demand from business travellers as well as economy-class passengers. Etihad Airways’ announcement of the new seating options has been warmly welcomed by the public, with many expressing excitement at the prospect of travelling on the new aircraft when they become available.
Conclusion
Etihad Airways’ partnership with Astra Tech to offer bookings via BOTIM and the new seating options for the upcoming Dreamliner fleet are anticipated to bring the airline to the front line of customer convenience, setting high standards of excellence for the industry. The airline industry continues to evolve to provide customer-friendly solutions and innovations to drive the convenience factor. As customer satisfaction is the central focus of airlines’ policies, these improvements can only be commended as they are bound to leave travellers with an unforgettable experience.
