Etihad latest airline to offer ‘fly now pay later’

UAE carrier Etihad Airways is the latest airline to offer flight tickets on credit.

It is now giving a ‘fly now pay later’ option with the cost spread over up to five years.

It is using payment provider PayFort which accepts payment plans from three months to 60 months.

Etihad is the first in the region to offer credit for flight tickets and is currently only available for residents of UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

"We understand travel can be a significant expense, especially for families and those on a tight budget, so this new initiative is a great way for people to book and enjoy their travel without having to worry about paying in one large sum," said Justin Warby, Etihad Airways vice president for digital strategy and innovation.

Warby says an instalment option offers the opportunity to upsell its premium product such as first class and The Residence private suites to customers who would otherwise not be able to afford it.

 "When we were designing this product, we were really looking at how we can assist those low-to-medium income travellers and families, but of course, spreading the payment over a period of months is also a great way to indulge in premium cabins."

Australian budget carrier Jetstar also rolled out a similar credit facility for flight bookings earlier this month.