Because who can wait to share those mile-high selfies..?

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s National Carrier, has updated its WiFly (that’s the in-flight WiFi) policy, and it comes with some pretty tasty freebies, especially for Etihad Guest members (the loyalty scheme is completely free to sign up to).

Shake-up on a plane

The WiFly options are split between ‘Surf’ and ‘Chat’.

The ‘Chat’ option will give guests access to such messaging apps as WhatsApp, Messenger, and WeChat.

Guests wishing to ‘Surf’ — that is doomscrolling through social media, tease posting in-flight selfies, or like work or whatever — whilst they fly, can now choose to opt in on unlimited data for the duration of the flight.

It’s good to talk

For flights less than seven hours long, the Chat package is absolutely free for Etihad Guest members (USD2.99 for everyone else, but like we say above, it’s free to join, you can even do it on the day of your flight, so why wouldn’t you?). The unlimited Surf package isUSD9.99.

For flights longer than seven hours, your Chat package is still free if you’re an Etihad Guest member, and USD4.99 for everyone else. And for mile-high bottomless Surfing, it’s USD19.99. A small price to play for boundless distraction. Priceless for parents of toddlers.

Etihad Guest Platinum and Exclusive tier members and guests travelling in Etihad’s First Class cabins will be entitled to free Surf Wi-Fly access throughout their flight. And Etihad Guest Gold members get a 25 per cent discount on Surfing.

Talking about the new download, Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “We know how important it is for our guests to stay connected, which is why we’re thrilled to introduce an added complimentary benefit for Etihad Guest members and welcome everyone to sign up before they fly to take advantage of this benefit immediately.”

“Wi-Fly plans will offer unlimited data and will last the duration of the flight, which means our guests can easily catch up on social media, work or browse as they wish.”

“Our fleet of modern wide-body aircraft is fitted with the right technology to enable this service and offer our guests an enjoyable connected experience throughout their journey,” he continued.

Images: Provided