Next time you are about to book a flight for an international travel, make sure to choose the best in the industry! TripAdvisor has revealed the world’s top carriers, utilizing an algorithm that took into account the quantity and quality of airline reviews and ratings submitted by travellers around the world over a 12-month period, beginning February 2017 to February 2018. The Travelers’ Choice Awards recognize the airlines that provide the best quality, service and value.
Here are the winners!
1. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines ranks No. 1 in 2018 and was also awarded for offering the best economy class and first class products among global carriers. “Our business model is based around three main pillars—product leadership, service excellence and network connectivity. We are continuing to invest heavily in all three areas to ensure we have industry-leading offerings that meet and exceed our customers’ expectations, both on the ground and in the air,” said the airline’s CEO, Goh Choon Phong in a statement.
2. Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand has been praised time and time again for its stellar premium economy and was recently named Airline of the Year for the fifth consecutive year by safety and product rating website AirlineRatings.com.
3. Emirates
Gulf carrier Emirates is the top-ranked Middle Eastern airline for 2018. From free Wi-Fi to an over-the-top private first class suite, Emirates is delivering one of the industry’s best passenger experiences despite falling two spots to No. 3.
4. Japan Airlines
One of the world’s most punctual airlines based on on-time performance, Japan Airlines stands out for its exceptional onboard experience, which includes tasty meals, efficient legroom and popular entertainment.
5. EVA Air
Travelers are high on Taiwanese carrier EVA Air not only for its popular Hello Kitty Hand-in-Hand Jet but its service, amenities, space and price as well.
6. Southwest Airlines
The top-rated airline in the U.S. is Southwest Airlines. The low-cost carrier recently added new routes to its network and extended its bookable flight schedule. Southwest was also recognized for offering the best economy class in North America.
7. Jet2.com
Jet2.com is the U.K.’s highest ranked airline and the only European carrier to make the top 10 for 2018. TripAdvisor reviewers have lauded the airline for its combination of quality service and affordability.
8. Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways was named Airline of the Year at the 2017 Skytrax World Airline Awards and is setting the bar for business class with its new Qsuite product.
9. Azul
Brazilian airline Azul was the only South American carrier to make the top 10 but has won over travelers with its airplane shaped gummy bears and efficiency, according to at least one TripAdvisor reviewer.
10. Korean Air
One of the four Asian carriers to crack the top 10 this year, Korean Air is routinely recognized for its friendly staff and a basic economy class that is far from basic. It also launched a frequent flyer program for pets last year.