Stunning they would litigate to that extent rather than accept a quiet settlement. But do Small Claims Court decisions have any precedential value in the UK? in many jurisdictions they do not.
In any event, I'd suggest you bring this to the attenton of some of the travel editors at the large newspapers; readership here is comparatively limited.
Not a solicitor myself so unsure on this count. Etihad's counsel did raise the prospect of an appeal but the judge made it clear that it would be refused. He did deliver a detailed judgement so I am hoping it would benefit others who have been similarly affected-I know there are many since Etihad has itself admitted that they routinely deny OCIs boarding on this basis. In any event, my detailed submissions to court and arguments would be useful to anyone considering making a claim-will post them here once I have the judgement.
I suspect there will be some media interest in the story so I am considering going to the papers once all the hysteria around Brexit dies down....