Etihad launches new services for families

The nannies initially meet and greet the children at the lounge entrance before taking them to the family room. There the children can play with the toys, read books and watch television all under supervision of the nannies that have professional training in childcare and first aid.

Many of the nannies have background in the hospitality industry, which includes five star hotels in the Middle East.

Claire Claxton, Etihad Airways' Vice President Product, said:

"Etihad Airways always takes great pride in adding those extra touches to our customers' journey and we are delighted to launch this new service that will make a big difference to families when travelling through Abu Dhabi airport, especially during the busy summer period."

"The nanny service allows parents much needed time to unwind next door in the first and business class lounges and helps provide an adult environment for those other passengers who are not travelling with children," added Claxton.

The lounges allow adults to enjoy a range of services such as all-day fine dining, surf the internet or have a treatment at the world-renowned Six Senses Spa.

Parents that use the new service will be asked to complete a questionnaire which provides the nannies with details of any special dietary requirements, allergies and contact numbers of the children. Specially designed kids menus are offered in the lounges, which they can enjoy while watching television.

Etihad Airways will shortly open up special family-only check-in desks at Terminal 3 at Abu Dhabi airport. The family-only check-in will help parents and children travelling in economy, business and first class during the busy summer months.

Children in all cabins will be able to enjoy additional films and television programmes on the in-flight entertainment system during the summer, with kids packs also available on the flights.

Claire Claxton added, "Travelling with children can often put pressure on parents as they fly off on their holidays and so we are pleased to once again offer the family-only check-in as well as additional in-flight entertainment for the kids during the summer season."

With summer 2009 expected to be Etihad's busiest, the airline has been advising customers to do as much as possible to prepare for all stages of the journey: at home, at the airport and when transferring. The aim is simple, to ensure flights take off on time and passengers reach their destination with the minimum of fuss.

Etihad also advises customers to use the online check-in on its website which is available 24 hours before the flight departs. In doing this customers can have a greater and better choice of seats as well as saving time at the airport.