Etihad Airways launches ‘Horizon Club’ Web3 Loyalty Program allowing users to stake NFTs for miles.

Etihad Airways launches 'Horizon Club' Web3 Loyalty Program allowing users to stake NFTs for miles.

The Blockchain Revolution in the Airline Industry

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is set to release a new 300-edition expansion to its blockchain-based non-fungible token (NFT) collection, known as EY-ZERO1. This move demonstrates Etihad Airways’ commitment to leveraging blockchain technology to enhance the travel experience for its customers.

Introducing the EY-ZERO1 NFT Collection

The EY-ZERO1 NFT collection, built on the Polygon blockchain, first launched in July 2022 and has since gained significant popularity. It offers a unique and limited-edition range of digital collectibles, with each NFT representing an exclusive 3D aircraft model. These NFTs provide holders with exciting benefits and rewards, creating a novel way for customers to engage with the airline.

The newest addition to the collection, set to launch on August 1, showcases a Boeing 787 Dreamliner adorned with Mission: Impossible branding. With this aircraft model, Etihad Airways aims to capture the imagination of movie enthusiasts and aviation enthusiasts alike.

The Value of Owning an EY-ZERO1 NFT

The EY-ZERO1 NFT collection goes beyond being a mere collectible item. It grants holders exclusive benefits and rewards, blurring the lines between the digital and physical worlds. The original collection already offered attractive perks, such as Etihad Silver Tier status for one year and access to an exclusive NFT holders’ event at the Yas Marina Circuit Formula 1 race.

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The expanded 300-edition release introduces additional digital and real-world rewards. Holders of these NFTs will enjoy a 12-month Etihad Guest Silver Tier Status, priority check-in, a 25% boost in earning Etihad Guest Miles, lounge access at Abu Dhabi International airport, membership to the Etihad: Virtual Club, an accelerated pathway to Gold Tier status, and a customized Etihad membership card. These benefits enhance the overall travel experience and provide tangible advantages for loyal customers.

Web3 Loyalty Program and Staking for Miles

In September, Etihad Airways plans to unveil its Web3 loyalty program called “Horizon Club.” This program will create a seamless integration of blockchain technology into the airline’s loyalty offerings, providing enhanced benefits and opportunities for its customers. Additionally, Etihad Airways will introduce a staking-for-miles program, allowing NFT holders to lock up their assets and earn Etihad Guest Miles. These miles can then be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and various other perks. This novel approach to loyalty programs harnesses the power of blockchain technology to incentivize and reward customer engagement.

Powering the Future of Airline Loyalty Programs

Etihad Airways has partnered with Arcube, a prominent real-world asset tokenization firm, to create and manage its blockchain-based NFT collection. Building upon this collaboration, Arcube will serve as Etihad Airways’ official Web3 partner, supporting the development of innovative loyalty programs and tokenized assets. To facilitate payments for the NFTs, infrastructure firm Crossmint enables the use of both cryptocurrencies and credit cards.

Etihad Airways is not alone in embracing blockchain technology within the airline industry. Low-cost Argentinian carrier Flybondi and Spanish airline Air Europa have already embarked on blockchain-powered ventures. Flybondi has partnered with NFT ticketing company TravelX to offer all flight tickets as NFTs on the Algorand blockchain. Air Europa, in collaboration with TravelX, introduced NFT tickets linked to exclusive perks and events. Additionally, Japan’s largest airline group, All Nippon Airways (ANA), has launched an NFT marketplace and aims to integrate flight histories into passengers’ digital avatars.

In conclusion, blockchain technology is revolutionizing the airline industry, and Etihad Airways is at the forefront of this transformation. The introduction of the EY-ZERO1 NFT collection and the upcoming Horizon Club loyalty program demonstrate the airline’s commitment to innovating and enhancing the travel experience. By leveraging blockchain technology, Etihad Airways and other airlines are pioneering new ways to reward and engage with their customers, creating a more seamless, personalized, and enjoyable journey for all.