Global Airport News

Martin Broughton, the chairman of British Airways, has been knighted in the UK's New Year honours list.

Sir Martin, who helped the airline return to profit this year, was honoured for his services to business.

He caused controversy in the industry in October when he spoke out against 'excessive' US airport security describing the level of checks as "completely redundant."

The award tops a busy year for Sir Martin who, in addition to his work at BA also oversaw the sale of Liverpool Football Club to new owners.

Sir Martin, 63, has been a non-executive director of BA since May 2000 and became deputy chairman in November 2003 before becoming chairman in July 2004.

He is also chairman of the Transatlantic Business Dialogue and is a member of the European Round Table of Industrialists.