Etihad Airways has enhanced its services for premium passengers who depart from or transit through Abu Dhabi airport with the introduction of specially trained nannies to its lounges in Terminal 3.

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 the supervision of the nannies.

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.”

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.

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

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, it said.

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. – TradeArabia News Service