Danni Minogue joined the Etihad Airways stand where she signed autographs and wowed travel trade guests at the World Travel Market in London, as the Abu Dhabi based carrier showcased its latest offerings and highlighted its activities in the Australian market.

Etihad – considered to the World’s Leading Airline by the World Travel Awards - recently rolled out its Etihad Skypass promotion, offering two free internal Australian flights when booked in conjunction with Etihad flights to Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane.

In August Etihad launched a major advertising campaign in Australia inviting Australians to “change to the best”. Showcasing the airline’s superior product and service offering and the strength of its global network, the campaign signals Etihad’s ambition to become the airline of choice for overseas travel from Australia.

Danni Minogue signed autographs on the Etihad stand for two hours during WTM

James Hogan, Etihad Airways Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are proud of our success in building the Etihad brand in Australia in just four short years of operation.

“This is all thanks to the hard work of our team in Australia and the generous support of the travel industry and the hundreds of thousands of Australians who have chosen to fly with us.”

Mr Hogan said there was mounting proof that Etihad had brought a superior alternative to the Australian travel market.

“Our market share is growing at the expense of the local competition; Australian members of the Etihad Guest loyalty program are surging up the tiers; and travellers worldwide are voting for us in best-in-category awards such as the 2011 Skytrax World Airline Awards where we received the Best First Class gong.

Etihad operates 24 weekly flights from Australia to the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and North America via its hub in Abu Dhabi. This includes double daily flights from Sydney, daily flights from Melbourne and three weekly flights from Brisbane. It offers connections to and from other Australian cities and towns in conjunction with its partner Virgin Australia group of airlines.

Last week when during the Qantas dispute, Etihad pledged its support to Australian travellers offering extra services.