Airlines awards for 2009

Air Transport World, US monthly magazine covering the airline industry, has announced the 2009 winners, and….no, Singapore Airlines is not there!

Airline of the year: Asiana Airlines.
“Asiana, based in Seoul, South Korea, was recognized for its superb commitment to passenger safety and operational excellence as reflected in industry-leading dispatch reliability and engine inflight shutdown rates. Asiana’s dedication to operating at the highest level of safety is matched by its devotion to superb customer service (…), significant investments in inflight services and amenities and cabin attendant training.”

Regional Airline of the Year: Flybe.
“An industry trendsetter that has demonstrated innovation, adaptation and a willingness to take calculated business risks over its 30-year history as it has grown organically and through acquisition to become Europe’s largest regional airline (..). Its early commitment to making consumers aware of the environmental implications of their choices in air travel by offering them an environmental report card of each flight they take.”

Market Leadership Award: Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA.
“Oslo-based airline’s successful adaptation of the low-cost model to the Scandinavian air travel market. In particular (..) Norwegian’s strategy to combine low fares with high tech, with a strong emphasis on customer-focused information technology.”

Public Relations Award: Air New Zealand.
“for creating an atmosphere of candor and open access to senior management and for effectively communicating the leadership role the airline has taken on environmental issues affecting aviation.”