Skytrax Passengers Choice award based on responses of 18.8 million travellers

MONTREAL, June 22, 2011 /CNW Telbec/ - Air Canada has been ranked 'Best International Airline in North America' in a worldwide survey of 18.8 million air travelers as announced at the Skytrax World Airline Awards at the Paris Air Show.  The Passengers Choice survey was conducted by the independent research firm Skytrax between July 2010 and May 2011 using over 38 different aspects of passenger satisfaction to rank airlines' product and service standards.  This annual survey is regarded in the air transportation industry as a primary benchmarking tool for passenger satisfaction levels of airlines throughout the world.

"We are honored that the Skytrax World Airline Awards has recognized Air Canada as the Best International Airline in North America and that for the second year in a row it has placed Air Canada as among the very best airlines in the world," said Ben Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "This award is especially welcome as it confirms the success of our corporate priority to establish Air Canada as an international powerhouse and that passengers are embracing our world class services and products. It is also a tribute to our employees, whose dedication and professionalism are recognized by this prestigious award."

"Air Canada continues to be the popular choice for North American passengers having won the overall Best Airline North America award in 2010. This repeat win clearly demonstrates that passengers continue to be impressed with the overall quality of product and service provided by Air Canada on International flights," said Edward Plaisted, Chairman of Skytrax.

Skytrax World Airline Awards is the established, global barometer of passenger opinions about more than 200 airlines around the world. Free of outside or financial influences, it comprised more than 100 different respondent nationalities in the 2010-2011 survey.   Further information on the Skytrax survey and awards is available at www.worldairlineawards.com

For 2011 Air Canada has been awarded several other prestigious industry awards including "Best in Business Travel," "Best Flight Attendants in North America," "Best In-flight Services in North America," "Best North America Airline for Business Class Service," "Best North American Airline for International Travel," "Best Airline Website" and "Best Airline in North America." In addition, Skytrax last year named Air Canada "Best Airline North America."

Air Canada is Canada's largest domestic and international full-service airline providing scheduled and charter air transportation for passengers and cargo from 60 communities large and small across Canada to more than 175 destinations on five continents.  Canada's flag carrier is the 15th largest commercial airline in the world and serves 31 million customers annually.  Air Canada is a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network serving 1,172 airports in 181 countries. Air Canada customers can collect Aeroplan miles for future rewards through Canada's leading loyalty program, and Top Tier members enjoy reciprocal frequent flyer benefits including lounge and priority services.