For the third year running, travel and tourism professionals worldwide have voted Lufthansa as Europe’s Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards.

The award is recognition of the commitment to excellence which the airline has demonstrated in the last twelve months.

WTA president Graham Cooke said: “For 20 years, the World Travel Awards have been celebrating those brands which push the boundaries of industry excellence.

“In this period Lufthansa has been leading the prestigious airline category, winning the title of Europe’s Leading Airline six times overall and now for the third year in a row; an impressive accolade which has been recognised by 230,000 travel professionals around the globe.”

Over the coming months, Lufthansa is investing more than €3 billion into its services: the retro-fit of the new First and Business Class, the installation of FlyNet (the wi-fi internet service on board), new lounges, a new catering concept on long- and short-haul flights as well as an enhanced service concept for families and children.

Another highlight in 2014 will be the introduction of a brand new Premium Economy Class on long-haul flights.

Christian Schindler, Lufthansa general manager UK & Ireland, added: “This award is an acknowledgement of the investment made by Lufthansa in our staff, aircraft fleet and cabin product to maintain standards, quality of service and flexibility within Lufthansa’s “Mobility à la Carte” offer.

“This provides passengers with their seat, hold & cabin baggage allowances, in flight food & drink, the ability to check-in on line, from their mobile phone or at the airport and all taxes and charges for one all inclusive fare with no hidden extras. 

The awards, announced at Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa in Antalya, Turkey, are the result of an online voting process and a year-long communications campaign to encourage global participation.

The votes come from qualified executives working within travel and tourism and the consumer travel buyer and are internally audited to ensure the validity of each individual vote.