Emirates has been named the “Best Airline Worldwide” for the ninth time in a row at the Business Traveller Middle East awards. The Dubai airline also won in three other categories — “Best Premium Economy Class”, “Best Economy Class” and “Best Frequent Flyer Programme”. <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/business/aviation/2022/05/10/etihad-airways-cautiously-optimistic-on-2022-outlook-chief-executive-says/" target="_blank">Etihad Airways</a>, the national airline of the UAE, was recognised as the airline with the "Best Cabin Crew" as well as being awarded the "Best First Class". Etihad said in a statement that its First Class cabin is "designed as a private universe – a sanctuary in the sky – which provides guests with a highly personalised and bespoke service tailored to the guests’ individual preferences". The airline recently launched added the A350-1000 to its fleet and is introducing a new dining experience designed with environmental sustainability and an elevated guest experience as a priority. Meanwhile, Emirates' Premium Economy seats were first introduced in January 2021, with six Airbus A380s offering the cabin. Emirates said this week that it is in the process of retrofitting a further 67 A380s and 53 Boeing 777s. The premium economy cabins are decorated with a wood panelling similar to that in business class. Seats are 49.5 centimetres wide and come with a one-metre pitch and an 20-centimetre reclining position, rounded off by soft leather finishings, six-way adjustable headrests and a footrest. Emirates will be unveiling the complete premium economy experience <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/travel/airlines/2022/05/09/emirates-to-launch-premium-economy-bookings-from-june-1/" target="_blank">on-board and on the ground from August 1</a>, with a dedicated check-in service at Dubai International Airport, complimentary amenity kits, fine glass and chinaware, curated dining and beverage choices. The airline will be back to <a href="https://www.thenationalnews.com/business/aviation/2022/04/26/emirates-aims-to-return-to-100-of-pre-pandemic-operations-and-network-capacity-in-2023/">full capacity</a> by the end of the year, up from the current 75 per cent to 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels at which it is currently operating, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed, the airline's chairman and chief executive, said at the Arabian Travel Market on Tuesday. ___________________________
