I already sent this feedback to Etihad but i am placing it here to prevent Passengers from falling in the same trap.
The Etihad Airlines confused us of taking the test 48 HR's or 72 Hours before the flight.
Because they didn't make it clear enough that every country is different and that 48 hours before flight departure and not Results Receival.
We ended up knowing at the flight Counter ( 2 hours before our flight) that our first PCR was collected 56 hours before departure and so it was 8 hours out. We obviously though it was 4 hours before receiving results.
We had to repay the PCR Test at Melbourne airport and we were so stressed the whole time until we boarded on the flight.
I can not explain how stressful it was for us.
The Destination guideline link on Etihad can make it a lot clearer to avoid such a mistake.
Around 15-20 Passenger on our same Etihad Flight had to redo their tests on our flight because they were caught in the same thing.
Needless to say we lost 300 Australian $ for no reason as we got tested 56 hours and 1 hour before our flight.
Our first PCR was collected at Healius pathology in Melbourne and we got there specifially through a recommendation from Etihad Website. ( although they were further than the other pathologies by 1 hour round trip drive)
Also how is Etihad recommending a pathology who took our flight details and didn't bother asking us if it is 48 hours collection before departure or Whatever and that every destination is different. ( I left the Pathology a similar review on their google account to watch out and inform their staff of that situation)
Lastly, the verification to fly link on Etihad website said you can upload PCR Test 72 hours before flight and that also confused us more.
Honestly, its not good enough to say on Destination Guideline "You need to have PCR Tests Within 48 hours of departure " (especially when all pathologies say they take from 24-48 hours to send the results)
With flights at 10:45 pm, your best bet is to take the test in the morning of 1 day before the flight.
Our reservation is ( Number hidden since we have a return trip)
Melbourne to Abu Dhabi on 16 NOV We did test on 14 Nov 12:30 Pm - Healius for 2 people - paid 260$ AUD Again had to redo test at PCR Airport Histopath 16 nov 9:02 pm , paid 300$ for 2 People.
We need to be reimbursed or redeemed for this totally avoidable Mistake.
And most importantly mention enough that departure time is different from report receival and not say Within, just say less than 48 hours and that some destinations are different...
Read moreFirstly I would like to commend the lady at the counter who surpassed my every expectation in customer service. Her name was Kelly. Before I was able to check-in, whilst waiting my turn, I was observing how kind and lovely her manner was to the people in front of me; and I was blown away by her kindness and service when my turn came. Kelly went out of her way to go above and beyond to cater to our needs and have us seated in a quick manner as the a-la -carte section was quite busy. She kept checking in on us to ensure we were taken care of. She also was very polite and professional and very well spoken, and made you feel important! Well done to her - Etihad she is an asset! The lounge was also wonderful and the food was great too. The ambiance was very relaxing; which is just want you want before a 20hr long haul flight. Due to this experience today, particularly starting off with Kelly, I knew I chose the right airline and my trip will be a good one. I am writing this whilst on the plane with 2hrs left and can honestly say Etihad has surpassed my expectations. We will indeed choose Etihad again. Thank you Kelly.. and thank...
Read moreThere should be negative stars.
I provided the boarding pass to dnata support on twitter on the day of flight and also submitted a written complaint on spot but I havent been informed at all.
@dnataSupport and @EtihadAirways both support descrimination and extortion. A passenger was charged for a handcarry and it is 3 months since we lodged a complaint and there is no progress. It is time to make it public. #descrimination #extortion #injustice #australia #Airlines
I wish Australia set up an ombudsman where I can to complain against dnata and etihad airways.
I ll now start posting the details of event publicly and will also seek legal advice to see how to proceed with our rights regarding this discriminatory behavior...
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