Flybe is celebrating after being awarded a top industry honour from a United States based aviation magazine.

It was named Regional Airline of the Year by Air Transport World and is only the second British winner in 35 years.

The award is the latest in a run of honours for Flybe, after a first in the Sunday Times Top Track 250 of privately-owned companies, best Domestic Airline at the Scottish Passenger Agents Association Travel Awards and a special merit for commitment to the environment.

The judging panel said it was impressed by the firm’s successful growth strategy, including the acquisition of BA Connect, and its commitment to operating fuel efficient aircraft.

The award will be presented at a ceremony in Washington DC next month.