Skytrax Crowns 2024's Best Airline, Competition Flies Coach

Skytrax Crowns 2024's Best Airline, Competition Flies Coach

5 minute read
Published: 6/25/2024

Qatar Airways has soared to new heights, being crowned the World’s Best Airline of 2024 by Skytrax for a record eighth time, reaffirming its dominance at the Oscars of the aviation industry.

The World Airline Awards, held near London's Heathrow Airport, confirmed once again that Qatar Airways takes the trophy for sheer aviation supremacy. Outshining former champion Singapore Airlines (now a close second) and third-place Emirates, Qatar Airways not only snagged the top airline title but also scooped up accolades for its Business Class and regional dominance. If airlines were movie stars, Qatar Airways would be the Meryl Streep of the sky.

Singapore Airlines, last year's top airline, took the runner-up spot, proving that while it may have passed the crown to Qatar Airways, it still boasts significant inflight charm. Emirates rounded out the top three, adding another feather to its cap, or perhaps another jewel to its crown, in the highly competitive global arena.

The complete list of the World's Top 10 Airlines showcases the usual suspects with a few surprising yet deserving contenders. Following the top three were ANA All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways, Japan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, EVA Air, Air France, and Swiss International Air Lines. Each of these airlines had its own moment in the spotlight, with awards recognizing everything from staff service to cabin cleanliness. It's almost as if they were all trying to outshine each other in a friendly rivalry for sky-high supremacy!

One of the most notable achievements was Qatar Airways' triumph in multiple categories. The airline secured the titles for the World’s Best Business Class, the World’s Best Business Class Lounge, and the Best Airline in the Middle East. Clearly, if there's an award to be won, Qatar Airways is boarding early and securing its overhead bin space.

Singapore Airlines did not walk away empty-handed either, winning awards for the World’s Best Cabin Staff, the World’s Best First Class, and Best Airline in Asia. Their cabin staff continues to redefine what it means to serve with a smile, setting the bar sky-high for inflight hospitality.

In North America, Delta Air Lines emerged as the shining star, snagging the awards for Best Airline in North America and Best Airline Staff Service in North America. It's safe to say that smiles and service seem to be in Delta's crew DNA, making them the friendly skies' most affable ambassadors.

Allegiant Air also made headlines by winning the award for the Best Low-Cost Airline in North America for the first time. Clearly, their strategy of low fares and high spirits has paid off.

Meanwhile, AirAsia continued its unbroken winning streak by being named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for the 14th consecutive year. Since 2010, they've proven time and time again that low cost doesn't have to mean low expectations.

Adding another feather to the budget-friendly cap, Scoot was awarded the World’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline, proving that flying far can be both affordable and delightful.

British Airways took home the award for the World’s Most Family Friendly Airline, ensuring everything from toddlers to teenagers are catered for on their journeys. It seems that 'Are we there yet?' might be a thing of the past on their flights.

Cathay Pacific, besides flying into the top ten, also claimed the award for the World’s Best Economy Class and the World’s Cleanest Airline title—which makes one wonder if their secret weapon is a fleet of mid-air cleaning ninjas.

Japan Airlines also made a notable mark by being named the World’s Best Premium Economy Class, a nod to their spacious seating and top-notch service in the not-too-posh, not-too-cramped mid-tier cabin.

ANA All Nippon Airways won the World’s Best Airport Services award and the Best Airline Staff Service in Asia, proving their staff is not only high-flying but also sets the gold standard on the ground.

Saudia celebrated a significant win as the World’s Most Improved Airline, perhaps signaling that their motto is less 'Inshallah' and more 'In sure we shall'.

Bangkok Airways continued its streak, winning the World’s Best Regional Airline for the eighth consecutive year. It appears small but mighty is a theme that suits them well.

In the Australia/Pacific region, Fiji Airways claimed the title of Best Airline, showing that the happiness of their sunny, tropical homeland extends to the skies.

Ethiopian Airlines was named Africa’s best airline for the sixth consecutive year, showing that their service and reach across the continent are truly soaring high.

Turkish Airlines soared above all European competitors, securing the title of best airline in Europe. Their expansive network and consistent service have made them a favorite on the continent. It seems they've figured out that flying high is the best way to stay on top!

airBaltic was named the best airline in Eastern Europe, further solidifying its reputation as the region's reliable carrier. Looks like their flights are taking off in more ways than one!

Hainan Airlines took the title of best airline in China, recognizing their commitment to quality and passenger satisfaction within one of the world's largest aviation markets. It's not quite the 'Oscars of the aviation industry,' but it's definitely a feather in their cap — or should we say, a wingtip?

As we glance over the awards, it becomes clear that the Skytrax World Airline Awards serve as a global barometer for aviation excellence. From plush business classes to welcoming low-cost cabins, airline passengers across the globe have never had such a wealth of high-quality choices. Whether you're chasing luxury in first class or seeking value at the back of the plane, the 2024 awards highlight that the skies are anything but boring.