Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President, Planning & Research, received the Gold “Airline of the Year" accolade on behalf of the airline at a special ceremony held in Athens. “We are honoured to receive ATN's Gold “Airline of the Year" award, which highlights our dedication to customer service and quality, both in the air and on the ground, while proving Emirates' commitment to excellence. Athens is an important destination for Emirates with the long-standing tourism and business relationship between the UAE and Greece," said Mr Kazim. ATN announced the results in eight different categories after collecting votes from ATN readers, many of whom hold executive positions in the air transport industry, and the verdict of a panel of industry experts. Dr. Kostas Iatrou, Managing Director of Air Transport News stated: “It is a great honor for us that Emirates won this award, which comes directly from the air transport industry. The Award is a recognition for Emirates for its cultural diversity, its business growth and its sustainable profitability which distinguishing it among other companies". Emirates, with well over 500 international awards already to its name, have been rapidly expanding its route network in the opening weeks of 2012. Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Dublin, Lusaka, Harare, Dallas and Seattle have been launched so far this year. Services to Ho Chi Minh City start on 4th June, followed by Barcelona and Lisbon on the 3rd and 9th July respectively. Currently, 122 destinations are served in 72 countries with a fleet of 171 aircraft, including 21 double-decker A380s. Emirates' flagship A380s is the only commercial aircraft to feature Onboard Shower Spas for First Class passengers. All upper deck premium travellers have access to a popular Onboard Lounge where they can meet other First and Business Class passengers. Stocked with a full range of beverages, the Lounge opens once cruising altitude is reached and only closes on descent. The international airline of the UAE operates seven flights a week to Athens from its industry leading Terminal 3 in Dubai, using Airbus A340-300 and A330-200 aircraft. Since 2008, Emirates has sponsored the Greek football team, Olympiacos FC. Emirates currently employ more than 170 Greek nationals, some of whom work as Captains, First Officers and cabin crew. Each flight arriving and leaving Athens is supported by Emirates SkyCargo with 13 tonnes of belly-hold cargo capacity.
