IN BRIEF | Etihad Airways has launched what would seem to be a first for airlines and social media – an invitation-only Twitter account to support its top-tier frequent flyers.
The Etihad Premium Twitter channel is restricted to Gold members of the Etihad Guest program, although we've no doubt that Platinums would also pass muster.
The airline is spuiking a range of "exclusive benefits" available through the special Twitter account, including five minute response times, retro mileage claims and "exclusive deals".
To sign up, Etihad Guest Gold (and presumably Platinum) members need to email [email protected] with a copy of their Etihad Guest Card and also provide their date of birth, post code and Twitter handle.
It's an interesting approach to help an airline's most valued customers cut through the crowds tweeting to that airline.
If you end up using the Etihad Premium Twitter channel we'd be interested to hear of your experiences.
David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
21 Aug 2014
Total posts 501
I still wonder how no one got the handle EtihadPremium before EY itself.
Virgin Australia - Velocity Rewards Gold
04 Jul 2014
Total posts 129
I actually think this is a fantastic idea... If only QF/VA did the same.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
10 May 2014
Total posts 112
Same boilerplate responses to issues that you get when emailing/posting on a blog, 'please email [email protected] and someone will look into it for you'. Absolutely no help or resolution of issues at all. Etihads 'social media' team is a joke.
Cathay Pacific - The Marco Polo Club
17 Apr 2013
Total posts 8
five minutes response time doesn't mean things will be resolved in five minutes. I asked something the other night and they responded 5:06 later (I want my money back!) that they're looking into it. Woke up in the morning with answer. Not bad in my experience. I wouldn't use it for anything urgent but can be quite handy for quick inquiries without having to call.
American Airlines - AAdvantage
20 Jun 2012
Total posts 25
I read on One Mile at a Time that a Gold Guest had sent a query to [email protected] cc [email protected] - the issue was resolved in 30 minutes.
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