Website AirlineRatings.com has announced its list of best airlines in the world in 2021 and after a turbulent year in the aviation industry, Air New Zealand was beaten to first place by Qatar Airways.
Aotearoa's national carrier placed second but was named Best Airline of the Pacific, as well as winning Best Premium Economy and Best Economy.
"Air NZ punches way above its weight," said AirlineRatings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas.
"In so many ways it has set the standard for airline excellence over the past 15 years. Its Premium Economy is just superb and the benchmark in the industry and without doubt the best value in the sky."
AirlineRatings.com World's Best Airlines in 2021
- Qatar Airways
- Air New Zealand
- Singapore Airlines
- Qantas
- Emirates
- Cathay Pacific
- Virgin Atlantic
- United Airlines
- EVA Air
- British Airways
- Lufthansa
- ANA
- Finnair
- Japan Air Lines
- KLM
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Virgin Australia
- Delta Air Lines
- Etihad Airways
The Australian based website awarded Qantas the title of Best Domestic Airline as well as Best Lounges.
Emirates' position as an industry leader saw it win the best inflight entertainment award. It was one of the first airlines to provide live television direct to the seat.
Best Cabin Crew: Virgin Australia
Best Inflight Entertainment: Emirates
Best Ultra Low-Cost airline: VietJetAir
There were awards for best airlines internationally too:
Europe: Lufthansa
Americas: United Airlines
Asia: Singapore Airlines
Middle-East/Africa: Qatar Airways
Pacific: Air New Zealand
In terms of low-cost airlines, Southwest was awarded the title for the Americas, easyjet for Europe and Jetstar for the Asia Pacific region.
