India's private domestic carrier Kingfisher Airlines has been declared Best New Airline of the Year for the Asia-Pacific and Middle East by the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA).

The award was presented to Kingfisher Airlines chairman Vijay Mallya at a function in Kuala Lumpur on the sidelines of the second annual Asia Pacific and Middle East Aviation Outlook Summit 2006, a company statement said.

"The award represents a powerful endorsement from travelling guests who recognise our commitment and service excellence," Mallya said.

"Kingfisher Airlines has grown at a scorching pace and we intend to continue to delight and pamper our guests and offer them unparalleled levels of service, comfort and convenience."

Kingfisher Airlines recently placed an order for 30 Airbus A-320s in a deal valued at $1.9 billion. It had previously ordered 30 ATR 72-500 turboprops valued at $350 million.

The airline is also the first Indian carrier to have ordered five Airbus A-380 super jumbos.