The annual ranking compiled by Skytrax, unveiled in London on 18 September, places Singapore Airlines at the top of a list evaluating more than 300 carriers. Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific complete the podium while European airlines are less prominent.
An award determined by travellers
The World Airline Awards 2026, organised by Skytrax, were announced in London on Friday 18 September. These awards, described by the organisers as the “Oscars of the aviation industry”, are based on passenger reviews and cover the performance of more than 300 airlines worldwide: service, comfort, catering, in-flight entertainment, and other aspects of the travel experience.
The podium and major distinctions
Singapore Airlines takes first place in the global ranking for the sixth consecutive year. In addition to the title of “World’s Best Airline”, it also received the awards for “Best Economy Class” and “Best Economy Class Onboard Catering.” On receiving the trophy, Chief Executive Goh Choon Phong said:
“We are grateful to our customers for their trust and support. We are committed to delivering an exceptional, world-class travel experience every time they fly with us.”
Qatar Airways came second. The carrier, previously named the overall winner nine times, picked up four awards this year including “Best Airline in the Middle East”, “Best Business Class” and “Best Inflight Wi‑Fi” — a category introduced for this edition.
Cathay Pacific rounds out the podium and was recognised for the “World’s Best Cabin Crew” as well as the world’s best first-class lounge, awarded to its “The Wing” lounge.
Other winners and the position of European carriers
Following places include ANA All Nippon Airways (awarded for best airport services), Turkish Airlines (voted “Best Airline in Europe” and recognised for business-class catering and as the best airline in Southern Europe) and Emirates (best in-flight entertainment).
Air France ranks seventh and left with several first-class awards: “Best First Class”, “Best First Class Onboard Catering” and “Best First Class Amenities.” The airline was also named “Best Western European Airline.” By contrast, Lufthansa appears only at 14th place, illustrating a less dominant European presence in the global top.
Regional rankings and other notable awards
- Hainan Airlines retains the title of “Best Airline in China” for the fifteenth consecutive year, along with awards for customer service in China and for business class.
- Japan Airlines, Korean Air and EVA Air also rank among the top carriers; EVA Air is praised as the most family-friendly airline and for its premium economy class.
- Qantas is named the best airline in the Australia/Pacific region and is recognised for its regional cabin crew.
- STARLUX Airlines receives the award for the cleanest airline in the world.
- Among the top twenty are also Saudi Arabian Airlines, Iberia (16th), Air Canada, Virgin Atlantic, Swiss International Air Lines and Thai Airways.
Outside the top 20, Vueling is crowned “Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe” for the first time and LOT Polish Airlines is named “Best Airline in Central Europe.”
What this ranking indicates
This ranking reflects travellers’ perceptions across many aspects of the flying experience and highlights the strong representation of Asian carriers at the top. It also shows the growing importance of new elements such as in-flight connectivity (Wi‑Fi), now evaluated as part of the awards.
The results provide an indication of passenger trends and priorities — cabin comfort, service quality, catering and digital innovation — but they do not negate the fact that travellers’ choices and operational constraints (networks, routes, regulation) continue to influence airline performance. When different international rankings disagree, it’s important to keep in mind the varied methodologies used by each evaluating organisation.
Source: Le classement des meilleures compagnies aériennes du monde pour voyager