Etihad now giving its ultra-rich fliers the option to transfer to hubs via private jet

When it comes to offering excessive luxury, you can't really beat Etihad's apartments — at least not when it comes to commercial flying. But if you thought forking over $40,000 for your own private apartment in the sky is not enough, you can now take advantage of the airline's offer for a private jet transfer from your city to an Etihad gateway. The gulf carrier just teamed up with Victor, so those with the Residence or First Apartment cabins on Eithad's Airbus A380 no longer have to fly a connecting flights with the heathens on non-Eithad flights.

This little private jet transfer comes at a cost, but members of Etihad's frequent-flier program do receive a $1,500 credit to use toward the flight.

The Residence and First Apartment accommodations are only available on flights from select airports such as New York’s John F. Kennedy, London’s Heathrow and Sydney’s Kingsford Smith. Through the jet charter company's mobile app, high-flying customers can select the size of jet they want and the departure city. Those with an aversion to mobile booking can also book their luxury transfer online.

In a news release, Etihad said it has "seen strong interest and demand within the private jet market for its ultra-exclusive A380 cabins, and is using the charter distribution network to reach this important customer segment." Etihad also noted it is the first commercial airline to partner with a private charter company worldwide in this manner.

Yes, Delta surprises some of its top customers with free private jet flights from time to time, but then again, those passengers don't have a butler and concierge at their beck and call.