The 2025 World Airline Awards were announced during a glamorous ceremony on June 17, 2025, held at the Paris Air Show in the Air and Space Museum within the Art Deco Hall of Eight Columns at Le Bourget Airport. Approximately 500 guests from airlines worldwide attended the event, with numerous airline Chairmen, CEOs, and Presidents receiving their awards on stage. As is customary at the World Airline Awards, many airline crew members in uniform proudly showcased their companies’ branding throughout the event.
Known as the ‘Oscars of the aviation industry,’ the awards have been held annually since 1999. The event remains completely independent and impartial, with all survey costs and the awards event itself funded and organized by Skytrax.
Skytrax CEO Edward Plaisted commented, “We welcomed many previous winners back and were pleased to see new airlines honored today. The fact that many past winners are recognized again demonstrates the importance of consistent quality, which customers clearly value when they cast their votes.”
Regarding Qatar Airways’ achievement, Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer expressed, “Being named the World’s Best Airline for the ninth time is an incredible honor. This accolade is more than just an award; it’s a celebration of the passion, precision, and purpose that define our airline. Retaining this title in a highly competitive and constantly changing industry speaks to the relentless dedication across every part of our business—from frontline staff to behind-the-scenes operations. We are proud to have been recognized as the Best Airline in the Middle East, as well as for having the Best Business Class globally and the top Business Class Lounge experience. These honors confirm our goal not only to lead but to reshape what exceptional service means in aviation. Whether on the ground or in the air, we aim to deliver seamless, elevated journeys that anticipate our passengers’ needs—embodying the highest standards of quality, comfort, and innovation. As a continued 5-Star Airline, our mission is to set new industry benchmarks and make travelers feel truly valued and inspired to return. These awards aren’t just victories—they’re a testament to the trust of millions who fly with us each year and validate our vision to redefine air travel.”
In rankings, Singapore Airlines, a five-time Airline of the Year winner, remains at No. 2 for 2025, while Cathay Pacific Airways has moved up to third place. Emirates is ranked fourth, with ANA All Nippon Airways rounding out the top five. The survey included results from over 325 airlines around the world.
THE WORLD TOP 20 AIRLINES IN 2025
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- Emirates
- ANA All Nippon Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- Korean Air
- Air France
- Japan Airlines
- Hainan Airlines
- Swiss Int’l Air Lines
- EVA Air
- British Airways
- Qantas Airways
- Lufthansa
- Virgin Atlantic
- Saudi Arabian Airlines
- STARLUX Airlines
- Air Canada
- Iberia
