UAE national carrier Etihad Airways said it has launched a mobile application for the iPhone that enables guests to organise and manage their journey with even greater ease as the airline continues to adopt innovative technology to reimagine the flying experience.

The guests will enjoy 10 per cent off flights, and members of the airline’s loyalty programme Etihad Guest, will receive 250 bonus miles for every booking made through the mobile app before May 30, 2016, said a statement from Etihad Airways.

The mobile app is simple and enjoyable to use, providing comprehensive trip management capabilities by taking full advantage of the latest innovations in mobile technology. Guests can organise their journey on the app including booking tickets, checking-in and viewing the status of their flight.

It will be available for trial at the Etihad Airways stand at the Arabian Travel Market.

Peter Baumgartner, the chief commercial officer, said: "Etihad Airways is dedicated to delivering excellence in every single guest interaction, be it face to face or on digital channels. We strive to provide innovative solutions that ensure our guests enjoy a seamless world-class service."

"We are confident that our guests will be delighted with the speed of the app, its ease of use and its considerable functionality. Regular travellers will also appreciate the ability to organise their journey on the go – all on the mobile app," he noted.

The airline also partnered with Abu Dhabi Airports Company, enabling guests to navigate their way around Abu Dhabi International Airport using indoor maps – a first in the Middle East.

The mobile app also incorporates high resolution enhanced seat maps, giving passengers a detailed layout of the cabin and their chosen seat, said Baumgartner.  

The new app allows passengers to check in for their flight by using their mobile phone to simply scan their passport page. Guests can also pay for their tickets by scanning their credit card, eliminating the need to enter passenger details and payment information manually.

According to Etihad, the simple booking process allows guests to compare multiple fare choices and upgrade options. In the ‘My Trips’ section guests can view all their past and upcoming trips, which are automatically linked to their Etihad Guest reward programme account. Boarding passes can be viewed from the app or downloaded directly to iOS Wallet.

The app offers a ‘countdown to take off’ feature to ensure guests arrive at the departure gate in plenty of time. Live flight status updates provide real time flight information enabling passengers’ family and friends to track their flight, it stated.

Robert Webb, Etihad Aviation Group’s chief information technology officer, said: "The mobile app marks a great step forward in our Digital Guest Innovation strategy. Through technology, we’re creating more personalised and tailored digital services and products to benefit our guests."

"This is just the beginning as we continue to empower our guests with greater control and flexibility over the entire booking and travel experience including how they choose to interact with our airline," he added.-TradeArabia News Service