In a remarkable return to form, Qatar Airways has once again been crowned the world’s best airline, according to the latest rankings by AirlineRatings.com. The prestigious title, previously held by the airline in 2022, marks a significant achievement as it outshines last year’s favourite, which has seen a notable slip down the list.

The Australian aviation scene also felt a shift, with two of the nation’s leading airlines experiencing a drop in their standings. Despite this, both Qantas and Virgin Australia have secured spots within the top ten of the AirlineRatings.com Airline Excellence Awards, with Qantas claiming the ninth position and Virgin Australia close behind in tenth.

Geoffrey Thomas, the editor-in-chief of AirlineRatings.com, shared insights with The New Daily (TND) on the rigorous selection process. The evaluation encompasses a comprehensive set of 12 objective criteria, ranging from fleet age and passenger reviews to safety and innovation. An expert panel of pilots also contributes their expertise on airline training practices.

While acknowledging that every passenger has their preferences, Thomas emphasized the holistic approach taken by the ratings site. “The objective of an airline is to deliver us safely from point A to point B, which involves many aspects,” he explained.

Qatar Airways distinguished itself across multiple categories, earning the top spot, although Thomas noted that the scores among the leading ten airlines were tightly contested. The airline’s commitment to innovation and the exceptional quality of its staff were highlighted as key factors in its success.

Looking at the broader landscape, the list of the top 25 best airlines saw some movement from the previous year. Air New Zealand, the former frontrunner, now holds the fourth position, with Korean Air and Cathay Pacific ascending to second and third places, respectively.

Air New Zealand continues to be celebrated for its innovative offerings, such as the “Skycouch” and the upcoming “Skynest,” which are set to enhance passenger comfort.

As for the Australian contenders, Qantas and Virgin Australia have received accolades for their services, with Qantas winning “best lounges” and Virgin Australia being recognized for having the “best cabin crew.” Thomas remains optimistic about their potential to rise in the rankings as they strive to recover from the pandemic’s impact.

The complete list of the top 25 best airlines reflects a dynamic industry where excellence and innovation are continually pursued. With Qatar Airways leading the pack, the aviation world eagerly watches to see how airlines will evolve and elevate the travel experience in the years to come.