Etihad Airways is tightening the velvet ropes to its First and Business Class Lounge and Sydney Airport in order to maintain its exclusivity.

Frequent Flyers booked into the economy cabins of Etihad’s daily Airbus A380 flight to Abu Dhabi but holding Gold or Platinum status with partner airline Virgin Australia, will now be directed to the airport’s new Air New Zealand lounge, rather than Etihad’s own facility.

The same will apply to Etihad Guest members holding membership status lower than Platinum and travelling in economy class.

The restrictions will not apply to frequent flyers on Etihad’s daytime Boeing 777 service.

The new rules mean that only guests booked in The Residence, First Apartments, or Business Studios on Etihad flight EY455 will be invited to use the Etihad lounge at Sydney Airport. www.etihad.com