Etihad pushes punctual performance

The airline will reduce the length of time it takes for customers to check-in, pass through the airport terminal and board the aircraft in a bid to boost efficiencies.

Geert Boven, Etihad Airways' executive vice president sales and services, said:

"Our customers tell us that good operational performance is a key factor when it comes to choosing an airline. This campaign will ensure better punctuality which means better customer service."

In order to achieve its aim Etihad is placing special emphasis on improving what it calls 'basics'.

This includes punctual opening and closing of check-in and boarding gates, the efficient embarkation of passengers, strict adherence to hand baggage regulations, ensuring correct passenger travel documentation is ready for inspection.

Mr Boven added: "Etihad is enjoying its busiest summer period, with thousands of passengers passing through Abu Dhabi airport ever day, and it is the detailed attention to basics that will ensure this success continues."

Aircraft doors will close 10 minutes before the scheduled time of departure and push back from stand.

Check-in desks will close 60 minutes before departure for economy passengers and 40 minutes before departure for business and first class passengers. Boarding gates will open 80 minutes prior to departure.

Etihad has embarked on a world wide campaign to inform air travellers of the new procedural changes with the airline's sales offices and travel agencies receiving full instructions.

The information also now appears on e-tickets as well posters and flyers at key locations at Abu Dhabi airport.