Etihad airways bucks the trend

Etihad Airways, national airline of the United Arab Emirates, was voted Best Long-Haul Airline at this year's Business Travel Awards. The award recognised the growth of the airline over the past 12 months as well as its continued investment in world-class products and excellence in customer service standards.

The Abu Dhabi-based airline picked up the award at a glittering ceremony at Grosvenor House Hotel in London last night, attended by representatives from across the travel industry.

The judges, comprising senior buyers and leading business travel journalists, recognised Etihad's remarkable growth during 2009, which included the addition of eight new routes to its network as well as the launch of the airline's new first class product and Inspired Service strategy -- a concept built on Etihad's vision to be the best airline in the world.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways' chief commercial officer, said: "It has been another strong year for Etihad, and the award shows that our continued investment in product and service is the right focus for us and for our customers. " Best Long-Haul Airline award follows World's Leading Airline at World Travel Awards in November, 2009 and Skytrax' Best Business Class and Business Catering accolades in April 2009. In 2008, Etihad got a raft of awards at World Travel Awards; Middle East World Travel Awards; Business Traveller (Middle East) Awards and Pan Arab Web awards.