Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline that flies to Malta three times a week, has closed 2004 with a premium accolade.
The global business information website Forbes.com has just selected Emirates as offering the best first class service from among 10 top contenders.
The airline was recently rewarded by the leading travel publication Globe Traveler US for providing the best overall amenity kit in first and business class.
Both honours come in the wake of the start of Emirates' services to New York in June, with its ultra-modern A340-500 aircraft that offers first class passengers mini-suites, personal mini-bars, room service and complete privacy.
Forbes.com evaluated the first class service of top airlines on the basis of 13 criteria that included flat beds, privacy screens, on-demand television and food, limousine service, massage chairs and even pyjamas and duvets provided to passengers.
Emirates emerged as the clear leader with a 12-point score. Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines and Air France were the runners-up, at 10 points each.
About Emirates' first class the Forbes.com article noted: "In the air, passengers are treated to flat beds with massaging chairs, on demand dining and on demand entertainment with over 500 channels. Amenity kits are stocked with Clarins products and there's a lit vanity built into the seat.
"The fully-flat sleeper beds have a mattress pad for extra cushioning and passengers are given pyjamas, slippers and a blanket... Privacy screens with 'do not disturb' signs can create a cocoon shelter around the bed, ensuring privacy and peace."
Emirates won several awards last year across a wide spectrum of its services, such as Best Airline - Silver Award at Skytrax Airline of the Year Awards 2004 and Best Airline Based in the Middle East/Indian Sub-Continent from Official Airline Guide (OAG).
Emirates operates flights from Dubai to Malta on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays using the A330-200. The flight allows convenient connection to outgoing and incoming passengers from the Far East and Australia.