110 / 124
110
|
and engaging in a diplomatic, dignified defence of its business
model in the wake of fierce opposition by US carriers.
Etihad Airways was chosen for the top honour by ATW’s
distinguished editorial board in a highly contested competi-
tion, with entries from more than 100 airlines around the world.
To earn the top accolade, ATW said an airline must dem-
onstrate exceptional achievements and capabilities across its
operations, financial performance, customer service, safety and
employee relations. The executive leadership team must also
clearly show innovation and strategic thinking that sets the
company apart.
l
On products and customer service, Etihad Airways was
described by ATW as being bold and innovative, highlighting
the introduction of unique Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 cabin
interiors as setting industry benchmarks.
l
On airline tie-ups, ATW noted Etihad Airways’ equity stakes
in selected airlines around the world as being the foundation
of its business model. Equity stakes in Air Berlin, Swiss-based
Darwin Airline, Air Serbia, Alitalia, Jet Airways, Air Seychelles
and Virgin Australia helped Etihad Airways create a unique
proposition of more passenger choice
l
On US carriers’ accusing Gulf carriers of anti-competitive prac-
tices, ATW said James Hogan and his team maintained dignity
by consistently defending Etihad Airways’ business model
focusing on the facts rather than personal attacks.
l
On sustainability, ATW commended Etihad Airways for a num-
ber of initiatives focused on fuel-saving, pioneering alternative
fuel research with key partners, and engaging employees in
recycling programmes.
During 2015, Etihad Airways launched six new routes on
three continents taking its global network of destinations to 116
with a fleet of 121 aircraft. Almost 18 million guests
flew on Etihad Airways last year, up from 15 million
in 2014. Etihad Airways also launched its new Boeing
787 Dreamliner – the first of 71 on order – and phased
in the first of 10 Airbus A380 aircraft into its fleet.
Etihad Airways was recognised by ATW’s edito-
rial board for “fast but thoughtful growth, consistent-
ly delivering against its targets and always thinking
ahead.” The airline was also applauded for its “excel-
lent numbers on financials, cargo and safety.”
“This award is a reflection of our strengths – a
robust business model and innovative products and
superior service delivered by our 27,000 dedicated
employees”, said James Hogan, Etihad Airways’
President and Chief Executive Officer. “I am de-
lighted to accept this award on their behalf. As an
airline, we have offered a unique proposition to the
travelling public and expanded our business to help
shape the changing global aviation landscape.”
Alitalija
Let pape
na Kubu i u
Meksiko
P
apa Franja je koristio avion Alitalije za svoje
putovanje na Kubu i u Meksiko, u februaru ove
godine. Bio je to papin dvanaesti prekookeanski let,
a 153. sa Alitalijom, kompanijom koju je izabrao Va-
tikan za apostolska putovanja pontifa i pape Franje.
Papa je leteo avionom erbas A330-200 koji ima
kapacitet od 250 mesta.
e
Alitalia
Pope’s flights
to Cuba and
Mexico
P
ope Francis used an Alitalia airplane on his
travels to Cuba and Mexico in February. It
was the Pope’s twelfth overseas flight and his 153
rd
pastoral flight with Alitalia. Alitalia is the Vatican’s
chosen airline for apostolic travel for the Pontiff and
Pope Francis.
The papal flight was operated by a long haul
Airbus A330-200 aircraft with a capacity of 250
seats.