The prestigious TTG Airline of the Year 2009 award has been won by Qatar Airways, further enhancing the carrier as one of the world leaders. The latest in a series of recent accolades, the TTG Awards celebrate the best performers in the UK travel industry and was held at London’s lavish Grosvenor House in Park Lane. The black-tie ceremony was hosted by TTG Editor Lucy Huxley and rugby player turned TV dancing star Austin Healey.

The award was voted for by readers of the weekly travel trade magazine which is based in the UK.

Akbar Al Baker, CEO for Qatar Airways, said that receiving the award that it was recognition that the recommendation of travel trade partners was a great influence on consumer habits. Baker went on to thank his UK team and the UK travel trade for their support in honouring the still young airline which is barely 10 years old.

Qatar’s UK chief Rachel Finn said the award was testimony to the hard work done by her colleagues to cement the airline as one of the world’s best, adding the groups operating model served as a benchmark for success in an industry hit hard by the recession.

While competition was tough for Best Airline, judges were ultimately swayed by Qatar’s hardworking sales team and the number of proactive initiatives the group had rolled-out in the last 12 months. The other deciding factor was Qatar’s seemingly secure financial strength which has helped it overcome hurdles that others have been unable to negotiate in the economic downturn.