The award was presented in London on 18/9 at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2026, often called the "Oscars of the aviation industry." Results are based on a global passenger satisfaction survey conducted by Skytrax, a UK aviation consultancy.

A Singapore Airlines aircraft. *Analytic flying*

This marks the 6th time Singapore Airlines has secured the top position in the award's 25-year history, with previous wins in 2023, 2018, and several years in the 2000s. The airline reclaimed the title from Qatar Airways, which was the top-ranked carrier in 2025 and has won the award 9 times over the past 15 years.

For 2026, Qatar Airways placed second, followed by Cathay Pacific, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Turkish Airlines, and Emirates.

Singapore Airlines also received awards for best economy class and best economy class catering. Qatar Airways was recognized as the best airline in the Middle East, while Cathay Pacific won for best cabin crew.

Taiwan's STARLUX Airlines received a 5-star rating and the award for the cleanest cabin. Air France secured the best first class cabin award, and EVA Air was recognized for best premium economy.

In the low-cost carrier category, AirAsia took the top spot, followed by Scoot, Vueling, Eurowings, and Iberia Express.

Bangkok Airways was named the best airline in Asia and the world's best regional airline. Ethiopian Airlines led in Africa, LATAM in South America, Turkish Airlines in Europe, and Air Canada in North America.

According to Skytrax, airline service quality continues to improve due to competition among carriers, even as the industry faces pressures from rising fuel prices, delayed new aircraft deliveries, and geopolitical instability.

Mark Nasr, Executive Vice President at Air Canada, noted that airlines are increasingly focusing on premium customers who are willing to pay more for business class and high-quality services.

*Tuan Anh (via CNN)*