BOSTON — It was a night to remember for Air Canada’s Calin Rovinescu at the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) EXPO in Boston.

The long-running President and CEO was recognized with the CEO Lifetime Achievement Award, marking the first time a CEO from the Americas has won the honour.

“I am pleased to accept this award on behalf of all Air Canada’s 30,000 employees who work hard every day to deliver a superior customer experience, and who are committed to continuing to improve it,” he said. “This award is significant because APEX is an international association and it further affirms our status as a leading global carrier.”

Rovinescu also added that the award validates the investments Air Canada has made in fleet renewal, onboard amenities and in the services it provides in airports.

In presenting the award, APEX cited Air Canada’s significant global expansion and many product enhancements during Rovinescu’s tenure.

“As CEO and President of Air Canada, Calin Rovinescu successfully advanced the airline to new heights while having an incredibly positive impact on air travel in Canada, North America, and the world,” said Joe Leader, APEX CEO. “Air Canada was the first North American airline with lie-flat seats, in-seat screens, signature service and special inflight entertainment options for those with disabilities.”

At the award ceremony, Rovinescu also accepted APEX’s 2019 Five Star Official Airline Rating for Global Airlines Award. Air Canada is the only airline in Canada to be rated by APEX with a Five Star Global Award, which is based solely on customers’ verified feedback.

APEX is the only non-profit membership trade association dedicated to improving the entire airline passenger experience. APEX EXPO attracts more than 5,000 industry professionals, including representatives from more than 100 airlines.