UAE’s national airline Etihad Airways has been named ‘Airline of the Year’ by Global Traveler (GT) magazine in the United States.

The publication’s advisory board backed Etihad as it was also voted the ‘Best Airline for First Class’ and ‘Best Airport Lounges,’ by Global Traveler readers.

The board applauded the airline for its superior levels of in-flight service that includes ‘Chef in Diamond First Class,’ a food and beverage manager in Pearl Business Class, and its's renowned 'Flying Nanny.'

James Hogan, the president and CEO, said: “The Global Traveler awards recognise the very best that the travel industry has to offer and we are delighted that in our tenth year of operations Etihad has been chosen as the Airline of the Year.

“The three Global Traveler awards reflect the growing presence Etihad has in the US and that American air travellers enjoy and appreciate the increased levels of service and hospitality delivered by Etihad Airways in the air and on the ground.”

The Abu Dhabi carrier currently flies to Chicago, New York and Washington, DC. - TradeArabia News Service