Air New Zealand is in the first place bagging the title of Best Airlines in the World for the fourth consecutive year, with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic also in the top 10 global rankings of the world.
Etihad’s suites won the accolade for the best first-class cabin but for economy cabins, Singapore Airlines scooped the top prize. Other winners of the annual Airline Excellence and Top 10 awards include Virgin Australia which won for the best business cabins and Emirates for best in-flight experience.
The world’s top 10 airlines:
1. Air New Zealand
2. Qantas
3. Singapore Airlines
4. Cathay Pacific
5. Virgin Atlantic/ Virgin Australia
6. British Airways
7. Etihad Airways
8. All Nippon Airways
9. Eva Air
10. Lufthansa
Air New Zealand also took the first place for the best premium economy class for the third time, in a year with a multi-million dollar lounge redevelopment and three new international routes.
British Airways has stormed into the top 10 at number six following the introduction of its 787s and A380s while rolling out cabin enhancements.
A pioneer of luxury, Middle Eastern carrier Etihad Airways was named the seventh best airline in the world as it launches new aircraft 777X and increased its fleet of 787s. It also has 65 A350s on order.
Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways scored eighth place following the launch of its 777x, while Taiwanese airline Eva Air took the ninth spot.
Germany’s largest airline Lufthansa held the number ten spot again this year.