Etihad Airways has received the Skytrax Certified 5-Star Airline Rating - the most coveted quality standard in the airline industry, strengthening its position as a leader in innovative guest experience, service and hospitality.

The rating follows an exhaustive three month audit of the airline’s global product and service offering by the London-based research consultancy.

The announcement was made at a special event held yesterday at Etihad Airways’ Innovation Academy in Abu Dhabi.

The Skytrax Certified 5-Star Airline Rating is used to certify airline product and service, and is awarded to airlines achieving the highest overall quality performance, recognising excellence in product and front-line staff service across the customer journey.

Airlines are assessed on criteria across all cabins including seating, safety procedures, inflight entertainment, cabin cleanliness, comfort amenities, catering, duty free sales, and reading materials.