OAG, the global content management company specialising in travel and transport, today announced the shortlist for its 23rd annual Airline of the Year Awards.
A total of 42 airlines and airports have received nominations in 16 regional and global categories. Leading the field are British Airways, American Airlines and United Airlines. Hot on their heels are Singapore Airlines, Continental Airlines and Cathay Pacific.
The winners will be announced at the Awards ceremony on Thursday 19 May at The Park Lane Hotel in London. The event will celebrate the very best in global air travel and publicly recognise the highest standards within the industry.
The finalists for the coveted title “OAG Airline of the Year 2005”, currently held by Continental Airlines, will comprise the winners of the eight regional awards.
Eddie Bell, Chairman of OAG said: “The past 12 months have been a time of cautious optimism with flight levels growing steadily following a long period of uncertainty in the industry. The OAG Airline of the Year Awards offer an opportunity to celebrate the industry’s achievements in delivering a quality service for their passengers.”
British Airways has been nominated as Best Airline based in Western Europe, Best Transatlantic Airline, Best Economy Class, Best Business Class and Best International First Class. Virgin Atlantic is shortlisted for Best Airline based in Western Europe and Best Transatlantic Airline.
UK budget airline easyJet is one of three regional finalists vying for the crown of Best Low Cost/No Frills Airline, competing with current holder Virgin Blue and US carrier Southwest Airlines.
Singapore Changi faces strong competition to regain the ‘Best Airport’ category, a title it had held for eight years until Dubai International won last year. New York JFK and Amsterdam Schiphol are the other contenders.
For the full shortlist and more information about the Awards, please visit the Airline of the Year web site.
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