Passengers on Etihad will be able to access more than 7,000 newspapers and magazines from up to 30 hours before their flights after the airline signed a deal with digital publishing platform PressReader.
The move follows a decision by the airline to remove print publications from planes and lounges as part of a commitment to reduce the spread of Covid-19, although some argue that the risk of catching Covid from paper is very small.
The platform allows passengers to read publications offline, listen to audio versions or read them in translation in 21 different languages, including Arabic.
Passengers can access PressReader content through the Etihad mobile app or by clicking a link in their check-in reminder email.
Terry Daly, executive director guest experience, brand & marketing at the airline group, said: "To encourage a contactless experience, this new partnership gives our guests choice and convenience to download as many digital publications as they would like, before their flight, to read at home, across our lounges, at the airport, or during their flight."
PressReader claims to have the largest global selection of publications to access digitally.
“We're personalising the guest experience with relevant content. With our solution, that's possible not just in-flight, but also before and after, in the safest possible way," said Alex Kroogman, PressReader’s CEO.