AIRLINE OF THE YEAR 2001

Emirates, the Dubai-based international carrier, has been named Airline of the Year 2001 in the largest ever global survey of airline passengers.

2.7 million votes were submitted over a period of nine months from around the world, culminating in the awards process.

Conducted by Skytrax research of the UK, the survey asked passengers to rank airlines by the quality of the product and service provided to passengers.

Edward Plaisted (MD of Skytrax) said the survey was unique from a number of perspectives: "This was a truly global voting process and not restricted by influences one often sees with polls conducted on a regional basis. It allows for smaller airlines to compete on an even basis with the world's majors. We do not look at frequent flyer programmes or other commercial influences, but concentrate wholly on the quality of product and service that a customer experiences - the end result portraying the truest picture of a quality airline".

Maurice Flanagan, Emirates Group Managing Director, said: "We are delighted to be recognised by customers in this worldwide airline survey. The award testifies to the unbeatable product that we offer passengers - a combination of the most modern aircraft, latest on-board facilities and the highest standard of service in the sky. We continually set the standard and as we further expand our operations around the globe, we will continue to put customers first by redefining the quality of our product."

Monthly ranking snapshots were taken throughout the survey process and Emirates was a strong performer during the whole voting period, resulting in it scooping the prestigious Airline of the Year title.

Emirates is the world's fastest growing major airline, operating to 57 destinations in 39 countries around the world from its base at Dubai International Airport.

Second position went to Singapore Airlines, with Cathay Pacific third, British Airways fourth and Thai Airways in fifth. Singapore Airlines just missed out in the Best Airline Asia Award to Cathay Pacific, whilst British Airways outranked by Lufthansa for the Best Airline Europe Award.

Customers were asked to rate airport services (at the home base for an airline), cabin seating standards, onboard catering, inflight entertainment and cabin staff service. Separate nominations were made for airlines offering the best product, best staff service and regional best airline.

Out of the 2.7 million votes cast, 32 per cent regularly travelled in First or Business class on corporate business, 24 per cent travelled on Economy class for corporate purposes, and 44 per cent travelled in Economy class on leisure.

This Skytrax research survey is an independent project, conducted without any form of third party sponsorship or influence - funding for the project based on the sale of detailed survey analysis and reports to interested airlines.

Applying a 'without fear or favour' policy, Skytrax says the survey provides one of the most meaningful studies of passenger opinions and has become one of the most prestige recognitions of airline standards.