Other Middle East and Africa Frequent Flyer Programs - Etihad Airways Eyes Brisbane & Perth

Etihad Airways (http://www.travelweekly.com.au/dirplus/images/travelweekly/TravelTodayPDF/4_05_2007.pdf) will commence services into either Brisbane or Perth as it looks to build on its current Sydney service, writes Michael Bruce in Dubai.

A spokeswoman said the airline, which was granted increased frequencies to and from Australia in March (Travel Today, March 26) was eyeing either the Queensland or Western Australian capital as it next port.

Melbourne, she said, was not on the radar at this stage. “Melbourne is well served by Emirates so that’s something we have to consider,” the spokeswoman said.

There has been no timeline given on when the new services will commence. The spokeswoman also said the carrier is examining the prospect of double daily flights into Sydney, a route it launched in March.

Nice to see that MEL isn't their next port and they are looking to fly to underserved destinations such as BNE and PER.

I know I am biased, but I'm sure a BNE-AUH service would work well.

Rgds

I flew Etihad CGK-AUH last month. Honestly, Etihad is one of the best airlines out there. Nice 10 inch screens, decent food and good seats. I'd definitely welcome them to BNE. :)

I am a little surprised that they are not considering Melbourne because it is "well served" by EK as Perth is also 2 x daily currently.

Etihad do seem to be doing really well. I just hope they can update their fleet together. After getting off one of those amazing new A330s, the Boeing 767 is a huge disappointment.

Please add my vote to the cry for Etihad to consider Melbourne.

Last time I tried to fly Emirates they were booked out, and I had to detour via Brisbane!