BREAKING NEWS is that a total of 42 airlines and airports have received nominations in 16 regional and global categories for this year”s OAG Awards, the 23rd annual event of its kind. 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” will comprise the winners of the eight regional awards.
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 short listed 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.
OAG is now also inviting airlines and airports to nominate themselves in two categories: 'Outstanding Service' and 'Best Marketing Campaign'.
The 'Outstanding Service' award is always a highlight of the evening. It goes to an individual who has acted above and beyond the call of duty. Last year the award went to three bmi cabin crew who helped save the life of a seriously ill passenger during a flight from Chicago to Manchester. The award for 'Best Marketing Campaign' was introduced last year and was won by United Airlines for "We Are United UK".
Closing dates are 8 April for Best Marketing Campaign and 22 April for Outstanding Service.
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