Singapore Airlines was last night (Thursday 10 April) named OAG Airline of the Year 2003 at a glittering ceremony at the Park Lane Hilton, London. The ceremony marking the 21st anniversary of the awards was attended by a number of senior figures from the aviation industry. Television personality, Clive Anderson, presented the awards.
UK flag carrier, British Airways took home two prestigious awards: Best Airline Based in Western Europe and Best Trans-Atlantic Airline. BA was shortlisted in six other categories including Airline of the Year.
In his keynote speech, Eddie Bell, Chairman of OAG, praised the resilience of the industry in the face of the current conflict in Iraq. He stressed the importance of the aviation industry for international trade.
The Outstanding Service Award, presented to airline or airport staff who have acted above and beyond the call of duty, was awarded to Hana Peskova, of CSA Czech Airlines. Hana was nominated for her efforts to help the people of Prague during last autumn’s massive floods.
Eddie Bell, commenting on the Awards said:
“The OAG Airline of the Year Awards are an opportunity for us to publicly recognise and celebrate the highest standards in the global air travel industry.
OAG has been a friend and colleague of the airlines for more than 70 years. These awards, voted for by our frequent flyer customers, provide a fitting opportunity for us to demonstrate our continuing support through these difficult times.”
It was an excellent year for the Asia Pacific region. In addition to the prestigious Airline of the Year title, Singapore Airlines took home another five awards. These included Best International First Class, Best Economy/Coach Class and Best Europe to Far East/Australasia Airline.
Singapore’s Changi Airport topped a very strong shortlist including Dubai International, Amsterdam Schiphol and Hong Kong International to take the title of Best Airport for the eighth consecutive year.
Southwest Airlines saw off stiff competition from the likes of easyJet and Go to win Best Low Cost Airline - a title it has held since the category was introduced three years ago.
In total 47 airlines and 5 airports competed for 19 regional and global awards. For the full list of winners, click here.
Notes to Editors
The awards are based on votes polled from a worldwide audience of business travellers who subscribe to OAG printed flight guides and electronic travel planning tools and support services. Results are collected and independently verified by market information company, Taylor Nelson Sofres.
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