ETIHAD Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has won three accolades at the Australian Business Traveller Awards, including the coveted title of Best Airline. It also won the awards for Best First Class and Best Arrivals Lounge. The awards were determined by a team of writers from Australian Business Traveller, the Asia-Pacific region's leading website for business travellers and frequent flyers. Winners were based on feedback from frequent flyers and first-hand reviews by the publication's editorial team. Etihad Airways' Chief Commercial Officer Peter Baumgartner said the awards reflected the airline's commitment to delivering a remarkable experience for its guests. “At Etihad Airways our goal isn't to be the world's biggest airline – it's to be the best. “Over the last year Etihad Airways has brought new levels of luxury and comfort to travellers with the introduction of our Airbus A380 and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft which feature the airline's ground-breaking next generation cabins. “To be named the best in the sky by Australian Business Traveller – a publication which is deeply attuned to the requirements of business travellers and frequent flyers – is a strong vote of confidence in our innovation strategy and guest experience.” Australian Business Traveller Editor David Flynn said the airline's next generation Airbus A380 and 787-9 Dreamliner cabins gave Etihad Airways an edge in the Best Airline category. “Etihad Airways' ‘Flying Reimagined' campaign was both ambitious and brilliantly executed, spearheaded by the launch of the airline's Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 fleet which raise luxury travel to new heights. “We continue to receive high praise from our readers for Etihad's first class and business class, meals and service, all of which has helped catapult Etihad Airways to win this year's title of Best Airline.” Flynn said Etihad Airways' attention to detail and innovative product offerings had impressed in the Best First Class and Best Arrivals Lounge categories. “Etihad Airways effectively reinvented first class flying with the launch of its Airbus A380 First Apartments, leapfrogging the competition with an unrivalled 39 square feet of space boasting a separate armchair and bed, personal vanity cabinet and wardrobe plus a chilled drinks cabinet. From elegant lighting to Poltrona Frau leather upholstery, there is an uncompromising attention to detail in the First Apartments. “Business travellers stepping off a long-haul flight appreciate an arrivals lounge where they can refresh and recharge. Etihad Airways has taken that one step further with a ‘wet shave', steam press and shoe shine service – exceptionally thoughtful ‘finishing touches' for busy executives who need to look their best.” The Australian Business Traveller Awards recognize the trendsetters and game-changers in the highly competitive business travel market across 33 categories. — SG
