Etihad Cargo has launched a new service for guests who want to travel with their luxury car over the summer as it looks to boost business in the sector.

Drivers can enjoy up to 20 per cent off air cargo rates and their seat, when they book in First or Business Class. The carrier is also offering additional services, such as arranging hotel accommodation and having the car delivered straight to the driver’s doorstep.

The offer is available from Abu Dhabi to European destinations including Amsterdam, Berlin, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Geneva, London, Manchester, Milan, Munich, Paris and Zurich.

Etihad Cargo senior vice president, David Kerr says: “Through our use of a mixed fleet of aircraft, we have a range of options that enable us to transport cars in the hold including some of the new additions to our fleet such as the Airbus 380s.

“We have several years of experience in transporting vehicles for manufacturers to luxury car markets around the world and will aim to provide a first class service for those clients who are looking to take their vehicles with them to Europe during the summer.”

With upgrades and expansions having been made to the passenger fleet, it is possible to move vehicles in the bellyhold of Etihad’s aircraft such as the Airbus 380.

The number of cars transported has been steadily rising over the last few years and Etihad Cargo carried hundreds of automobiles during 2015. With additional aircraft and supporting services being added to the fleet this year, the cargo team is aiming to increase those numbers during 2016.

The category of cars being transported has included F1 cars, Super Sport cars as well as   luxury car brands such as Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini. The airline sponsors the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.