Relax - UAE airline named Best First Class Airline in the world

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National airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad, has been named the airline with the Best First Class in the World in Skytrax's annual World Airline Awards.

It also emerged 6th in the Airline of the Year overall category - behind Singapore Airlines which ranked number two - based on results released at the Paris Air Showrecently.

The airline managed to maintain a strong position in the airline industry, receiving the sameawards as the previous year.

The Abu Dhabi-based carrier's Diamond First Class suite has a 23-inch personal TV screen, a personal mini bar and an illuminated wardrobe with a personal mirror.

It is also equipped with an in-seat massager, lumbar support and adjustable headrest, and Arabic-styled sliding privacy doors.

The First Class cabin also has a luxury changing room with a full-length mirror, wash basin and a leather fold-down seat.

On winning the award, Chief Commercial Officerof Etihad Airways Peter Baumgartner said: "It's great to see investments paying back and leading us to success in attracting the premium travel market."

See also:
World's Best Airlines in 2011

The survey for Skytrax's awards was conducted over a 10-month period, and saw feedback gathered from more than 18.8 million air travellers from over 100 countries.

Votes were based on personal experience at the airport and onboard, and the quality of customer service received was factored in.

Etihad was also recognised for the Best First Class OnBoard Catering for its "Inspired Service" culinary program. It revealed that plans to introduce internationally acclaimed chefs in its First Class Cabin are in the works.

>> Next: New inflight kids' packs

New inflight surprises for kids

Even the kids will be happy when flying with Etihad.

With a newly-launched custom-designed kid's pack, the airline plans to keep the little ones entertained when flying with the airline.

Available to children on all flights longer than 1.5 hours, the kids' pack will contain items such as colour-in finger puppets, sliding puzzle key rings, activity books, card games and stickers.

The airline's children's characters - Jamool the Camel, Kundai the Lion, Boo the Panda and Zoe the Bee - will be feature throughout the activities provided.

For the ultra long haul flights to Sydney, Melbourne, New York, Chicago, Toronto and Brisbane, the children will receive a second surprise. They can choose from mini magnetic versions of multi-player games such as Snakes and Ladders, Chess, Draughts and Chinese Checkers.

On the ground, the airline's First and Business lounges in Abu Dhabi International Airport also offer nannies to watch over children.

UAE airline named Best First Class Airline in the world

AsiaOne | Wed, Jun 29 2011

Etihad also placed 6th in the Airline of the Year overall category.