Introduction
When planning a trip, unforeseen challenges like flight delays, lost luggage, or uncomfortable seating can dampen the experience. However, choosing a reputable airline can alleviate some of these concerns. Recently, Qatar Airways has been recognized as the world’s best airline by AirlineRatings.com, regaining its crown from Air New Zealand. This article explores the rankings, highlights, and excellence of top global airlines.
Qatar Airways Regains Its Crown
Overview of the Achievement
Qatar Airways, known for its high standards and exceptional service, has once again been named the world’s best airline by AirlineRatings.com. After falling behind Air New Zealand in 2023, the Qatari flag carrier has reclaimed the top spot for 2024. Despite recent turbulence incidents, such as the one on a flight from Doha to Dublin that injured 12 people, Qatar Airways consistently ranks highly in global airline evaluations.
Evaluation Criteria
How Airlines Are Judged
AirlineRatings.com assesses airlines based on 12 criteria, which include safety, product rating, fleet age, profitability, serious incidents, innovation, forward fleet orders, and passenger reviews from multiple sources. The judging panel, comprising five editors led by Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas, boasts over 100 years of combined industry experience.
“Qatar Airways excelled in numerous key areas,” said Thomas. “The airline’s passenger reviews, consistent service delivery, and high standards were particularly noteworthy.”
Excellence in Aviation
Category Winners
Several airlines were recognized for their excellence in specific categories:
- Best First Class: Singapore Airlines
- Best Business Class: Qatar Airways
- Best Premium Economy: Emirates
- Best Economy Class: Air New Zealand
Qatar Airways also won the award for Best Catering, Virgin Australia was noted for having the Best Cabin Crew, and Qantas was recognized for its exceptional Lounges.
Regional Excellence Awards
Best Airlines by Region
AirlineRatings.com also recognizes the best airlines across different regions for long-haul travel:
- Middle East: Qatar Airways
- North Asia: Korean Air
- Southeast Asia: Cathay Pacific Airways
- Australia-Pacific: Air New Zealand
- Europe: Air France
- Southern Europe: Turkish Airlines
- North America: Air Canada
- South America: Latam
Top 25 Premium Airlines for 2024
Global Rankings
Here are the top 25 premium airlines for 2024 according to AirlineRatings.com:
- Qatar Airways
- Korean Air
- Cathay Pacific Airways
- Air New Zealand
- Emirates
- Air France/KLM
- All Nippon Airways
- Etihad Airways
- Qantas
- Virgin Australia/Atlantic
- Vietnam Airlines
- Singapore Airlines
- EVA Air
- TAP Portugal
- Japan Airlines (JAL)
- Finnair
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Lufthansa/Swiss
- Turkish Airlines
- IAG Group (British Airways & Iberia)
- Air Canada
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
Top 25 Low-Cost Airlines for 2024
Best Budget-Friendly Airlines
In alphabetical order, these are the top 25 low-cost airlines for 2024:
- AirAsia Group
- Air Baltic
- Air Canada Rouge
- Cebu Pacific
- EasyJet
- Eurowings
- FlyDubai
- FlyNAS
- GOL
- JetBlue
- Jet2
- Jetstar Group
- Jeju Air
- Norwegian
- Peach
- Ryanair
- Scoot
- SpiceJet
- Sun Country Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Transavia
- Vietjet
- Volotea
- Vueling
- WizzAir
Conclusion: Qatar Airways
Choosing a trusted airline can significantly enhance your travel experience by providing reliable service and comfort. Qatar Airways’ recent accolade as the world’s best airline for 2024 underscores its commitment to excellence. Alongside other top-ranked airlines, it continues to set the benchmark for quality in aviation. Whether you’re flying premium or on a budget, these recognized airlines offer exceptional service to ensure your journey is as smooth as possible.
