Etihad Airways is presently experiencing a considerable expansion, unveiling a multitude of new routes and presenting attractive promotions to entice travelers to discover these locations. Throughout the summer, the Abu Dhabi-based airline rolled out the “Extraordinary Challenge,” a promotion designed to reward those who embark on the most new routes. The results of this challenge have now been revealed, highlighting the commitment of the participants.
Etihad Guest, the airline’s loyalty initiative, distributed a total of nine million miles among the top three contestants. The grand prize recipient was awarded five million miles, the second-place participant received three million miles, and the third position earned one million miles. This contest drew in 50,000 entrants, with 20% being newcomers to the program. Significantly, 75% of the participants were located outside the UAE, underscoring the international allure of the challenge.
Mark Potter, Managing Director of Etihad Guest, conveyed his excitement for the competition, stressing the adventurous essence of the participants and the global network it created. The contest remains ongoing, with nearly 50,000 members still competing for further rewards and achievements.
A fascinating element of the competition was the 15-route challenge. Although the promotion centered on 15 new locations, not a single winner flew all 15 routes. This was attributed to the last-minute postponement of the Algiers route, believed to be due to circumstances beyond Etihad’s influence. The circumstances surrounding the Algiers route continue to be uncertain, with speculation suggesting political strife as a potential reason.
In summary, Etihad’s “Extraordinary Challenge” has effectively engaged travelers from all over the world, providing considerable rewards and nurturing a spirit of adventure. While the postponement of the Algiers route introduced an unforeseen twist, the competition still motivates travelers to seek out new locales.