Etihad Airways has been named Airline of the Year by Arabian Business magazine.

Judges said the award was made in recognition of Etihad Airways’ financial performance and service offering, as well as the remarkable speed of its expansion.

Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan said, “2011 has been an exciting year for Etihad Airways. Not only have we launched seven new routes – Chengdu, Nairobi, the Seychelles, the Maldives, Bangalore, Düsseldorf and Shanghai – but we have also increased frequencies across our network and we remain on track to break even.

“In 2012, we will continue to grow and announce new destinations as we introduce innovations such as onboard internet connectivity for all passengers. Etihad Airways is proud to carry the flag of the United Arab Emirates as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.”