Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways enhances customer experience with a complimentary inflight messaging service, allowing travellers to stay connected without purchasing additional Wi-Fi packages for short messaging. The ‘Chat’ messaging service supports popular platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage and WeChat, aligning with the trend of incorporating digital technologies into airline services.

Access to the service - which is available for the entirety of the flight - is granted when customers sign in with their Etihad Guest membership, or by joining the scheme before flying. Those who are not loyalty members can purchase the Chat package for $2.99 on flights of less than seven hours and $4.99 for longer flights.

This offering showcases Etihad's commitment to providing a seamless travel experience and ensuring customer satisfaction, as passengers can stay connected and productive during their journey.

Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves said: “We know how important it is for our guests to stay connected, which is why we’re thrilled to introduce an added complimentary benefit for Etihad Guest members and welcome everyone to sign up before they fly to take advantage of this benefit immediately.”

He added: “Our fleet of modern wide-body aircraft is fitted with the right technology to enable this service and offer our guests an enjoyable connected experience throughout their journey.”