Emirates Airline`s

focus on superior customer service, which has
consistently won it international accolades, has been applauded once again.The airline`s First and Business Class lounges at Dubai International
Airport have been voted the World`s Best Airline lounge for 2003. 

The Airport Lounge of the Year award, resulting from the world`s largest
survey of airline lounges, was organised by Skytrax and attracted more than
918,336 eligible nominations over a six-month period.

The award comes after Emirates undertook an extensive refurbishment and
upgrade of the facilities last year, to ensure they offer business and
premium travellers an oases of unique luxury and comfort.

Edward Plaisted, Chief Executive of Skytrax said: “Emirates lounges in Dubai
are praised for the wide range of facilities in both First and Business
class lounges, with the enlargement of the Business class facility being
well received by customers. Lounge aesthetics are a key attribute here -
water features combine with a clever layout of plant areas, making it
possible to forget you are actually in the middle of one of the world`s
busier airports.”

He added: “This survey is not just a vote about the product facilities
offered, but combines customers very clear perceptions about the service
standards.”

Maurice Flanagan, Emirates` Group Managing Director, said: “This award makes
us especially proud because it`s based on the views of customers.  Our Dubai
Airport lounges are an extension of our efforts to provide world class
service and facilities to match for all of our customers.”

The spacious lounges are split into two levels with soothing decor, leather
upholstered seating areas with sofas and armchairs, and are surrounded by
lush plants and restful fountains. Cosy guest bedrooms upstairs with en
suite showers, television and trouser presses provide privacy and personal
space.

International newspapers and magazines, and 42-inch plasma television
screens with satellite channels offer information and entertainment, while
separate showers and massage chairs provide welcome relief. 

For businessmen on the go or travelling on holiday, business centres are
equipped with free Internet access, laptop connections, telephones, faxes
and printers.  Lounge staff are on call 24 hours a day - serving a wide
range of hot and cold meals and refreshments, making bookings, issuing
tickets and boarding cards.

Related stories on ITN:

(19/02/2003) Two Top American Airline Awards Won by Emirates

(23/01/2003) Emirates Announces New Expansion Plan

(20/11/2002) Emirates Airline Set to Soar with Oracle E-Business Suite

——-