Aer Lingus has been awarded first place for "Best Airline to Europe", for the second year in a row, by the Irish Travel Trade News Awards, at a gala dinner held in the Burlington hotel, Dublin, last Thursday 21st January.

The airline was up against strong competition in its category from Air France, bmi, SAS, Turkish Airlines and British Airways. The Awards recognise excellence in products and services from travel suppliers in 26 categories, with votes independently audited by Grant Thornton.

Commenting on the much sought after award, Enda Corneille, Aer Lingus Corporate Affairs Director said, "This is a fantastic achievement for Aer Lingus, as it recognises our quality service offering, extensive choice of over ninety European routes, and value for money delivered to our customers everyday, in what is an extremely competitive environment".