Etihad and Qatar Airways enhance loyalty programmes as Iran war impacts flights

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Etihad and Qatar Airways have made changes to their loyalty programmes as air travel drops in the Middle East amid the Iran-US war.

As of 18 March, Etihad Guest – the loyalty and frequent flyer program for Etihad Airways – has reduced its qualification threshold by 25 per cent across all membership tiers.

This means members can retain or upgrade their current status with fewer than the usual qualifying miles.

Tier miles are earned on all Etihad flights and can be redeemed on journeys, hotel stays and holidays.

Etihad Airways said: “The adjustment provides greater flexibility for members whose travel plans may have been affected in recent weeks.

“The change recognises that many members have experienced disruptions to their travel plans in recent weeks and provides greater flexibility for members working towards retaining or upgrading their tier status.”

Since the US-Israeli attack on Iran began, triggering retaliation from Tehran against the infrastructure in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, airspace has been closed intermittently.

Reduced thresholds will automatically apply to all Etihad Guest members, with the reduced qualifications live until 31 March 2027.

Qatar Airways has similarly made changes for its Privilege Club members.

The Qatar Airways Privilege Club is the airline’s frequent flyer loyalty programme, using Avios points to redeem flights, cabin upgrades, and hotel stays.

In an email to members, the carrier said it is “implementing tier status extensions for all members whose status was due to be renewed and may have been affected during this period, allowing them to continue enjoying the benefits they love”, reported Euronews.

According to the latest figures by aviation analyst Cirium, Etihad and Qatar Airways are operating just 25 per cent and 15 per cent of their normal service, respectively.

Etihad is offering free cancellation for bookings made for travel up to March 2027.

Qatar Airways says: “Plan your travels again with limited flights resuming. We want you to know that we are doing our utmost to support you with your journey, and to reunite you with your family and loved ones.”

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