In its 38th annual awards, US based industry journal Air Transport World recognised Air New Zealand for its product innovation, use of social media and environment initiatives, calling the carrier an “industry trendsetter.” It also commended the carrier for its work following the Christchurch earthquakes.
“Winning ATW Airline of the Year in 2010 was in my view one of the greatest accolades that had ever been bestowed on Air New Zealand – in our industry it’s equivalent to winning an Oscar,” Air New Zealand CEO Rob Fyfe said in a statement. “To pick up the award again this year is simply outstanding.”
QantasLink, meanwhile, was recognised for its safety record and its extensive service to “remote and hostile” regions of Australia.
“QantasLink is more than a regional airline,” Air Transport World chief editor (and Australian Aviation contributor) Geoffrey Thomas said in a statement. “It’s a lifeline to millions of Australians who live sometimes thousands of kilometres from a capital city and hundreds of kilometres from the nearest town.”
Other winners included:
- Japan’s All Nippon Airways for Airline Technology Leadership, recognising its role in development and design of the Boeing 787, for which it is the launch customer.
- AirAsia for Value Airline.
- Etihad Airways for Passenger Service.
- Transaero Airline for Airline Market Leadership.
- Alaska Airline for Industry Service, recognising its extensive environment and corporate giving initiatives.
- Former IATA DG Giovanni Bisignani for Decade of Excellence.
