Arise Sir Tim!

The New Year's honours system recognises Britons and members of the British Commonwealth who have provided outstanding service to industry, government or charitable services or for outstanding performance in the worlds of sport or the arts.

Clark joined Emirates from Gulf Air where he had worked as a route planner, whenthe Dubai airline was launched in 1985 and became its president in 2003.

According to the official London Gazette he was recognised for "services to British prosperity and to the aviation industry".

Among other aviation interests, Laurent Beaudoin, the chairman of Bombardier received a CMG, (Companion of The Order of St Michael and St George). This medal is awarded to men and women who render extraordinary or important non-military service in a foreign country or can also be conferred for important or loyal service in relation to foreign and Commonwealth affairs.

Beaudoin honour was given for services to British industry, particularly in Northern Ireland where Bombardier has the former Shorts business that builds key components for aircraft such as the LearJet 85 and the C-Series.

Clark will be invited to Buckingham Palace where he will be officially knighted by the Queen or a member of her immediate family later in the year.

The news of his knighthood was met with delight by many in the industry.

"There are few men in the aviation business as legendary or as influential as Sir Tim Clark," said UK-based analyst Saj Ahmad. "The acumen, skills and lasting legacy he has brought to Emirates will never ever be matched at any other airline.
"From 1985 when Emirates started with just two leased jets from PIA to where the airline is today - the launch customer for the 777X and the biggest A380 customer, Emirates guiding hand via Sir Tim Clark has been vital to the way the airline has adapted and changed to the evolving industry around the GCC.
"If there was a higher accolade or award for Sir Tim Clark beyond a knighthood, even that wouldn't be enough recognition for his contributions to aviation, aerospace, Dubai and especially Emirates."