Etihad best long-haul airline

The Abu Dhabi-based airline picked up the award at a ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London earlier this week, attended by representatives from across the travel industry.

The judges, comprising senior buyers and leading business travel journalists, recognised Etihad's remarkable growth during 2009, which included the addition of eight new routes, as well as the launch of the airline's new first-class product and the airline's Inspired Service strategy - a concept built on Etihad's vision to be the best airline in the world.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways' chief commercial officer, said: “It has been another strong year for Etihad, and the award win shows that our continued investment in product and service is the right focus for us and for our customers. We are delighted to be recognised by our peers in this way.”