Island airline’s triple success

17/10/2005

The first winner of the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) Airline of the Year accolade, Binter Canarias, has done it again in the Association’s 25th anniversary year.

At a prestigious Awards Dinner held at the Association’s General Assembly in Gothenburg, Sweden, the Canary Islands carrier achieved Gold award status for 2005. Added to wins in 1991 and 1992, Binter Canarias has become only the second airline to receive the award three times, the other being ERA Palme d’Or holder Air Nostrum.

ERA’s Silver Award went to last year’s Gold winner, Aegean Airlines, with the Bronze Award received for the second year running by Aer Arann.

Commenting on Binter Canarias’ win, the judging panel said: “The airline has overcome challenges and has developed a firm base for a niche business. They are not afraid to challenge themselves through re-invention, re-branding and a fresh approach.” The panel also pointed out the airline’s good on-time performance.

Binter Canarias was purchased from Iberia by a group of private investors in 2002 and carries 2.5 million passengers a year. Andreas Blass joined as Managing Director, in April 2004. Mr. Blass received the Gold Award from Filippo Bagnato, CEO of award sponsors ATR.

The judges said that Silver Award winner Aegean was achieving: “Consistently high standards in the regional market.” Dimitris Gerogiannis, General Manager of Aegean accepted the award.

In the judges’ opinion, Aer Arann had: “An admirable entrepreneurial culture and good ties with home markets.” Padraig O’Ceidigh, CEO, represented the airline at the ceremony.

Judging for the ERA Airline of the Year awards is carried out by a panel of leading aviation journalists, representing a range of different nationalities across Europe. The journalists are selected for their knowledge of the industry and their expertise within the regional sector.