Emirates has been named Airline of the Year by Skytrax Research (UK), the world`s largest airline passenger survey, for the second successive year!

The Dubai-based international carrier was voted the top airline, ahead of Cathay Pacific Airways which came second, Singapore Airlines placed third, and 4th ranking British Airways.

The independent survey, carried out by Skytrax Research of the United Kingdom between August 2001 and March 2002, received more than four million nominations - an increase of nearly 50 per cent on the 2001 results.

Edward Plaisted, Skytrax`s Chief Executive, said: “The level and quality of customer response for this 2002 survey overwhelmed us. The events of 11th September had the effect of encouraging consumers to air their views and opinions in an even more enthusiastic manner ... hence the final total of over four million nominations.

“The survey is the world`s largest airline passenger survey and the only global study that covers just about all customer types from every corner of the globe.  Emirates owes its success to a well-rounded package of service and product quality.”

The data was collated through online customer surveys, corporate travel buyer questionnaires, telephone interviews and selected onboard and airport interviews.  Over 84 different nationalities of travellers submitted data.

In addition to the overall award, Emirates was named Best Airline - Middle East, and Best Airline - Long Haul Economy Class.

Emirates` Group Managing Director Maurice Flanagan commented: “To win such a prestigious award for the second year running is very heartening to us in Emirates as it not only shows recognition of our efforts in providing our customers with a high standard of service, it also acknowledges that our service standards are maintained and can be relied upon, every time a customer flies with us.”

Respondents to the survey were asked to rate the best airport service at the airline`s home base, cabin seating standards, onboard catering, inflight entertainment and cabin staff service.

In addition to respondents nominating Best in Category / Region airlines, selected supportive questioning and interviews were conducted by Skytrax to provide an in-depth study into reasons behind nomination.

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

To see the full details of the Skytrax survey, click on: http://www.airlinequality.com/Awards/aoy_2002_rslt.htm

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