Skywards, Emirates Airline’s frequent flyer program, has been voted the Middle East's Leading Airline Rewards Program at the recent World Travel Awards.

This prestigious accolade comes just after Skywards won four awards at the 2011 Frequent Traveller Awards across the Middle East, Asia & Oceania region for Best Earning Promotion (Miles Accelerator), Best Elite Program, Best Customer Service, and overall Program of the Year. These honours join two additional awards conferred at the 2011 Loyalty Conference recognising the unique Skywards Miles Accelerator and being named Best Loyalty Program by Middle East Traveller Magazine.

In January 2010, Skywards enhanced its programme structure in response to the evolving business environment and as a result of input and feedback from Skywards members.

When Skywards introduced the new programme structure, the intent was to offer members more choice and flexibility. Skywards offers miles on all fares without exception, plus bonuses of 75 per cent and 150 per cent for Business and First Class travel respectively.

In terms of rewards, Skywards members can choose either Saver or Flex Flight Rewards in any cabin, with no blackout dates or Upgrade Rewards which are allowed on any fare and redeemable at check-in or on-board. Furthermore, in terms of status, Skywards is extended to members over any 13 months to achieve Silver or Gold status.

'The Skywards Miles Accelerator is unique in its offering of a wide range of flight bonuses throughout the entire year on Emirates lighter flights, allowing customers to maximise the miles they can earn,” said Emirates’ Brian LaBelle, VP Skywards.-TradeArabia News Service