Qatar Airways is first again
The Doha-based carrier took the top trophy for the eighth time. Skytrax CEO Edward Plaisted emphasized that the company has "redefined service standards" and its modern fleet of 230 vehicles (A350-1000, B787-9, A380, etc.) allows it to build convenient connections through Hamad Airport.
"This is a reward for all our employees who make passengers' flights more comfortable every day," said Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meir.
Top 10 Global Airlines 2025
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Emirates
- ANA All Nippon Airways
- Cathay Pacific
- Japan Airlines
- Turkish Airlines
- EVA Air
- Air France
- SWISS
Singapore, last year's winner, ceded the lead but took home awards for "Best Crew" and "Best First Class Service." Vice President Tan Pei Teck described the success as the fruit of the team's "unwavering dedication".
Best in special categories
Crew of the Year
- Singapore Airlines
- ANA All Nippon Airways
- Garuda Indonesia
- EVA Air
- Cathay Pacific
- Hainan Airlines
- Japan Airlines
- Thai Airways
- Qatar Airways
- Malaysia Airlines
Lowcosters of the year
AirAsia retained its crown as the best low-cost carrier. Rounding out the top five were Volotea, Flynas, Transavia France and Indigo. Scoot won the Best Long-haul Lowcoster category.
Regional airlines
- Bangkok Airways (world number 1)
- Aegean Airlines - Europe
- Fiji Airways - Australia/Oceania
- Ethiopian Airlines - Africa (sixth consecutive year)
- airBaltic - Eastern Europe
Cleanest salons
- Cathay Pacific
- ANA
- EVA Air
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
Trends 2025: what influences estimates
Passengers are increasingly choosing flights based on schedule convenience and fare flexibility. The query "Search for flights with flexible dates" grew by 19% year-on-year, underlining the importance of personalization.
Sustainability initiatives such as SAF fuel, route optimization and fleet modernization are viewed positively. Qatar, Emirates and Air France have already declared plans to reduce emissions by 2030.
What matters to the passenger beyond ratings
Service platforms make traveling comprehensive. For example, in one window, you can book Airline Tickets online, reserve Luxury Hotel Reservations, and activate the Business Travel Management Service for the entire team.
Comfort on board
Demand for business class air tickets is growing. Analysts note double-digit sales growth in the premium economy and business segments: companies are more willing to invest in the well-being of their employees during long flights.
Group travel
MICE events and sports tournaments drive demand for Group Travel Services. Flexible rates and separate check-in desks save hours on boarding large delegations.
Outlook 2026
Experts expect the next 12 months to bring even tougher competition: the opening of new transit hubs, the growth of Chinese and Indian carriers, and the digitalization of the customer journey. The results of the next Skytrax survey will show who manages to hold the balance between innovation and service.
Stay tuned: Skytrax promises to reveal the shortlist for additional environmental awards in the fall.
