South African Airways voted best African airline in London

BY ALAN GREEN

Business Traveller magazine today announced the winners of the 2017 Traveller Awards in London. The event, in its thirtieth year, recognizes the best airlines, car rental services and hotels around the globe.

South African Airways has won the number one spot for the African continent. The event, held at the Royal Garden hotel during a lavish luncheon, was sponsored by Panasonic and presented by a special guest, John Sergeant. The winners are voted by the magazine’s readers, with the results certified by an idependent auditing company.

Analysts in the hospitality business tell The African the Traveller Awards have been over the years a fixture of the business travel and hospitality calendar. More than 250 leaders in the hospitality industry attended this year’s hotly-contested edition.

Qatar Airways won in four categories: Best Airline, Best Long-Haul Airline, Best Business Class and Best Middle Eastern Airline. British Airways took home three prizes: Best Short-Haul Carrier, Best Frequent Flyer Programme, and Best Airport Lounge for its Concorde Room at London Heathrow T5. Singapore Airlines won three awards for Best Economy Class, Best Asian Airline and Best Cabin Staff. Emirates was named Best First Class, Virgin Atlantic Best Premium Economy Class, and Easyjet Best Low-Cost Airline. American Airlines was named Best North American Airline, South African AirwaysBest African Airline and LOT Polish Airlines Best Eastern European Airline. The award for the Best Airport in the world went for the thirtieth time in a row to Singapore’s Changi Airport. Amsterdam Schiphol won in the same category for Europe, took the Europe, while London Heathrow was named Best Airport for Tax-Free Shopping.

Avis has remained the Best Car Rental Company Worldwide.