Etihad Launches Mapped Out Tool With LinkedIn

Etihad Airways has rolled out an online mapping tool designed to help LinkedIn executives network more easily on their travels.

The Etihad Mapped Out tool shows connections displayed on a map and members can enter search parameters based on geography, industries or first and second-degree connections.

The result of the search is a personalised map of the member’s LinkedIn connections, with a listing of business contacts within the region. Members can also reach their contacts instantly by sending messages directly from the contact list.

However the app gives Etihad access to members’ profile overview, connections, network updates, invitations and messages – which some members may be uneasy sharing. An Etihad spokesman said the information is needed for the app to function and to create the map, it has to access connections.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Ahead of a business trip, the guest can use this tool to see not only his or her immediate contacts in the region, but also second-degree contacts. This fosters more effective networking and greater opportunity to create connections across international boundaries.”