The UK flag carrier received the accolades at the Head for Points Travel & Loyalty Awards, with the winners announced at an industry dinner at The Crypt by Bleeding Heart in London. It was hosted by Sky News’ Jonathan Samuels and attended by representatives of the nominated airlines, hotel groups, airport lounges and travel rewards credit cards.

Over 6,000 readers of Head for Points cast their votes for the awards in recognition of ‘the best services that the UK has to offer for the business and premium leisure traveller’.

British Airways was praised by Head for Points for investing in its premium economy cabin (‘World Traveller Plus’). It said: ‘British Airways has been investing its World Traveller Plus experience significantly over the past five years, and this win goes to show it has all paid off.

‘Upgraded meals, blankets, pillows and amenity kits mean the cabin is now a real step up from economy, whilst – finally! – the launch of dedicated check-in and baggage-drop desks at airports seems to have given it the edge compared to our last awards.’

The Best Business Class Seat and Service gong went to Qatar Airlines and its ‘Qsuite’.

Head for Points said: ‘From the unique Qsuite with privacy door and on-demand a la carte dining, and touch-screen entertainment inflight info, to comfortable loungewear, Diptyque amenities and highly attentive service, it’s no wonder Qatar Airways is the winner in this category.’

BA’s lounge award came courtesy of the BA Concorde Room at Heathrow Terminal 5.

Head for Points said: ‘The Concorde Room – exclusively for ticketed First Class passengers departing from Heathrow Terminal 5 – shows that British Airways can do good quality table service lounge food and premium drinks. Let’s see it rolled out to the Gold and Business Class lounges too!’

The BA loyalty scheme award, meanwhile, was thanks to the airline’s Executive Club, with Head for Points commenting: ‘It’s unsurprising that readers of a UK-focused frequent flyer site would choose British Airways Executive Club as their preferred programme. However, whilst it’s easy to be annoyed by high surcharges and wobbly IT, you have to admire industry-leading innovations such as guaranteed Avios seats on every flight, the new “all Avios” flights, and 2-4-1 voucher offered on the BA Amex credit card.’

The Best UK Airport Lounge (Independent) went to the American Express Centurion Lounge (Terminal 3).

Head for Points said: ‘The first Centurion Lounge to open in Europe – accessible at Heathrow Terminal 3 to anyone with an American Express Platinum or Centurion card – is a remarkable example of what good design can do with a windowless space. A variety of seating “zones” means that there is something to suit every sort of trip and traveller.’

Read the full story originally published on dailymail.co.uk

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The “‘World’s Leading Airline” award acknowledges Qatar Airways’ dedication to passenger satisfaction. The airline consistently provides quality, comfort and service to its passengers, and ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for all.

The “World’s Leading Airline – Business Class” award reinforces it as the best way to travel, owing to its unparalleled quality service and luxury. The acclaimed Qsuite has won yet another title emphasising its stature as the most unforgettable way to fly.

The award for the “World’s Leading Airline Lounge – Business Class: Al Mourjan Business Lounge” is a crowning achievement for Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport. This sustainable lounge creates an immersive experience in a serene atmosphere; ideal for business, leisure and family travellers.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Qatar Airways is committed to pushing the boundaries of excellence and is proud of the recognition we have received at the World Travel Awards. These accolades reinforce our dedication to delivering nothing short of exceptional services to our passengers at each touchpoint.”

World Travel Awards Founder, Graham E. Cooke, Founder, said: “Qatar Airways continues to soar to new heights, and I am delighted that both the industry and the general public have acknowledged this unrivalled excellence by voting it ‘World’s Leading Airline 2023’, ‘World’s Leading Airline – Business Class 2023’ and ‘World’s Leading Airline Lounge – Business Class 2023’. The commitment of the entire Qatar Airways team serves as an inspiration to us all.”

The World Travel Awards brings together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to celebrate notable achievements in aviation and travel. The airline remains committed to providing unmatched service, furthering innovation and sustainability, all while maintaining its position as a global leader in the industry.

Read more on qatarairways.com

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