Korean Air has claimed the title of ‘Asia’s Leading Airline First Class’ at the World Travel Awards Asia & Australasia Ceremony 2011, held in Bangkok, Thailand.

Founded in 1993 and described as the ‘Oscars’ of the travel and tourism industry by The Wall Street Journal, the World Travel Awards represent the ultimate accolade, recognised globally by the travel, tourism and hospitality industry as the foremost acknowledgement of excellence in product and service worldwide.

This year, a phenomenal 213,000 industry professionals participated in the voting process, which is both monitored and independently audited.

The award was received by In Sub Kim, Korean Air regional manager for the Bangkok Office, who said: “Korean Air is delighted to have been awarded this prestigious honour by our peers in the travel and tourism industry.

“We are very proud of the service our airline provides its customers, and feel grateful to have been recognised for our continuing efforts in delivering excellence in flight and service, and environmental protection of the highest standards.”

Referring to the Leading Airline First Class Award, Graham Cooke, president of World Travel Awards said: “Winning is tough but staying on top is even tougher, and Korean Air has proven its world-class credentials by winning ‘Asia’s Leading Airline First Class’ for the second year in succession.

“The airline’s First Class Kosmo Suites offer an unparalleled level of service and seclusion, and typify the World Travel Awards mission to push the boundaries of travel excellence.”

Korean Air’s First Class cabins feature the famous “Kosmo Suites” - very spacious, comfortable seats that can be a living room, bedroom, theatre or office.

The polished wood finished 26.5 inch wide seat converts into a 79 inch long bed and with 83 inch space between seats, maximum comfort, freedom and privacy is guaranteed during the flight.

In addition, a luxurious individual table gives enough space to work comfortably and privately.

Each Suite has a 23-inch LCD monitor and passengers can enjoy more than 60 films, 40 features and 300 CDs in addition to a wide range of video games and audiobooks using their personal monitor and AVOD (Audio & Video on Demand) system.

The airline’s organic First Class cuisine includes Savruga caviar and the finest Laurent Perrier and Dom Perignon champagne, a fine dining experience that reflects the airline’s elegance.

Other touches that add to the First Class customer experience include a superb First Class lounge at Korean Air’s hub airport, Incheon International, in Seoul; with relaxing multi action massage chairs and free shower rooms.