Etihad Airlines has come up with a new way to make money on empty seats, by selling them to the passenger in the next seat.
The new scheme, now becoming available, invites economy passengers who have booked a seat to bid on the next seat (or two), asking, in effect, “How much would you pay for an extra seat if we have room? “
The airline would then hold those seats back from sale as long as others were open to sell. If they are still open a couple of days before the flight, the airline notifies the passenger that his bid has been accepted. If the seat has been sold, there’s no charge.
“Whether you’re a small family in need of more space for the little ones; a business traveller who wants extra room to relax and work, or travelling alone and looking for a private spot to stretch your legs – simply place your bid and wait to hear from us,” the airline states on its website. “Good luck!”
