The Regional Director for Air and Maritime Transport was pleased yesterday with the awarding of the bronze "Airline of the Year 2011/2012" prize to SATA Air Açores by ERA - European Regions Airline Association.

Nuno Domingues, who attended the award delivery ceremony on behalf of the Regional Secretary for the Economy, Vasco Cordeiro, stated that this distinction represents the recognition of the good work that has been carried for the benefit of passengers.

"After 18 months of the beginning of the fleet renewal, and conveying the experience of being a frequent flyer in that time, I wish to attest that the quality of passenger services during the reconversion of the fleet did not deteriorate and even improved, which is an unusual situation in similar cases managed by other air companies," stated the Regional Director.

"As a matter of curiosity, I tell you that throughout this process the only comments I heard among passengers were to know if their acquaintances had flown in the new aircraft, and whenever a group entered the first time in the new aircraft, everyone was admired," added the government official.

This was only possible, he stressed, "due to the commitment and professionalism of all employees who were involved in this transition under the coordination of the administration."

"The time is therefore of recognition of the professionalism and good work of all SATA employees," Nuno Domingues said, wishing that "this be the first of many other awards."