01 July, 2002, VICTORIA FALLS, Zimbabwe: The majority of passengers across the world have chosen South African Airways (SAA) as the Best Airline and Cabin Crew in Africa.
In a survey of 65 airlines conducted by Skytrax, a leading London-based specialist advisor to airlines, SAA came out tops for the second consecutive year. The presentation of the award, a plaque and citation, was made at The Kingdom Hotel in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, at the weekend.

Earlier this week, SAA was also awarded the Best Airline in Africa 2002 by the Tanzanian Society of Travel Agents (TASOTA) annual award at a recent ceremony held in Dar Es Salaam.
“SAA is proud to once again be recognised as the leading airline on the continent, ” said Andre Viljoen, SAA President and CEO.
“As a four-star national carrier, we pride ourselves with providing an excellent quality service. Clients and passengers can be sure they are receiving the best treatment available when flying with SAA,” Viljoen said.

Over 4-millon passengers cast their votes during the survey, a 50% increase compared to the previous year.
Airlines were judged on airport services, on-board comfort, quality, quantity, presentation of meals and in-flight entertainment.

For the cabin crew category, voting was based on staff efficiency, staff cabin presence, service attentiveness, friendliness, warmth and sincerity, and consistency among staff. .
Skytrax, a British company provides extensive Product and Service research, and Quality Evaluation Audits to airlines and airport operators around the world.

In the aviation industry, a Skytrax award is regarded as the highest quality achievement and the most prestigious recognition for an airline’s Product and Service Delivery Standards.
Other awards received by SAA this year:

Best Airline to Africa from Travel Weekly Globe Awards 2002—Best Airline in Africa 2002 by Tanzanian Society of Travel Agents (TASOTA)—Best African Airline and Best International On-Line Airline from Diners Club / ASATA—Best Airline stand at Indaba in May.

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