Alicia Chong
Image credit: Pascal Renet
According to AirlineRatings.com, Air New Zealand has clinched the title as the world’s best airline in 2020.
Based on 12 key criteria judged by seven experienced editors, the Airline Excellence Awards takes into consideration investment ratings, staff relations, product offerings, fleet age, passenger reviews and profitability.
A major trend that has been highlighted this year is the shift towards reducing the overall carbon footprint while also having more long-haul flights.
Besides its excellent in-flight innovation, safety record and staff motivation, Air New Zealand stands out from its competition with its eco-friendly initiatives. The airline has reduced its carbon emissions and fuel burns over the past ten years by 22%, ahead of the industry average. The Kiwi-based airline has also established itself as a pioneer in the industry by implementing biofuels, electric vehicles and efficient flight paths.
SIA comes in second place after Air New Zealand, winning the award for ‘Best First Class’ (pictured below) for the third year in a row.
Image credit: the Luxury Travel Expert ( via YouTube)
In 9th place, Qatar Airways also won titles for ‘Best Catering’ and ‘Best Business Class’ while Virgin Australia was recognized for having the ‘Best Economy Class’. Among the low-cost carriers, JetBlue, Wizz, Air Arabia and Air Asia were in the top place for their regions.
Also read: 5 Best Low Cost Long-Haul Airlines for Budget Travellers
Here are the world’s 10 most excellent airlines:
- Air New Zealand
- Singapore Airlines
- All Nippon Airways
- Qantas
- Cathay Pacific
- Emirates
- Virgin Atlantic
- EVA Air
- Qatar Airways
- Virgin Australia
It is important to note that there are other rankings with different criteria. In Skytrax’s 2019 World Airline Rankings, SIA is in second place after Qatar Airways, with Air New Zealand in 16th.
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Also read: Singapore Airlines Launches First Non-Stop Flight From Singapore To Seattle
