DETENTE is declared in the airline industry for one day a year, when the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland present their annual airlines awards. This year Bernie Cahill and Gary McGann of Aer Lingus were looking particularly pleased at the presentation as the national carrier scooped three awards, including the overall "best airline" prize. Ryanair had to be satisfied with the "best value for money" prize, while CityJet's Patrick Byrne - now trying to work out a financing package - was there to pick up the gong for best carrier to London".

Interestingly the prizes stayed at home this year with no sign of any nonIrish airline, including British Midland, on the awards list.