Etihad Reputation Damage

[VH-Cheer Up]

Most people probably read about the three Aussies who sat in an Abu Dhabi prison for a month following allegations of drunken cavorting aboard an Etihad flight Sydney - Abu Dhabi.

http://www.theage.com.au/news/NATIONAL/Australians-in-UAE-mull-legal-action/2007/06/06/1181089148756.html

Turns out two of the three pleaded guilty to lesser charges and have now been deported, whilethe third was found non guilty and released.


Question is, how will this impact Etihad's reputation with Australian travellers?
Would you fly Etihad after reading about this case?
What do you think really happened?

[Bangkokeasy]

Oh Lordy!

"Lesser charges"???? - "drinking alcohol on a flight without a permit"? :eek: Accused of "touching a stewardess on the ARM"!!!? "intoxicated with an illegal drug"??? (read=alcohol) - Clap them in irons immediately!

I have to say I didn't see the original story when they were first arrested. However, from this story, I would say this is outrageous treatment, unless there is a LOT we are not being told. Thanks for the heads-up.

This has indeed made me think twice about booking my home leave with Etihad.