Out of 450 airlines, one carrier has emerged the top choice for travelers in 2016. AirlineRatings.com selected Air New Zealand as an industry leader among several categories ranging from customer service to sustainability initiatives. The airline also took top rankings for best economy class and best premium economy class.
This is the third consecutive year that Air New Zealand has won awards for its inflight service and aircraft capabilities. It scored winning points for inflight innovations, record-breaking financial performance, operational safety, environmental stewardship and staff support.
“Air New Zealand is an airline of first choice, and given the airline’s location and country’s size, its performance is stunning,” said Geoffrey Thomas, editor-in-chief of AirlineRatings.com.
The safety and product rating website promotes excellence in the airline industry using a seven-star rating system. The following airlines were also awarded for inflight service and overall performance.
Top 10 Airlines for 2016:
1. Air New Zealand
2. Quantas
3. Etihad Airways
4. Cathay Pacific
5. Singapore Airlines
6. Emirates
7. Eva Air
8. Virgin Atlantic/Virgin Australia
9. All Nippon Airways
10. Lufthansa
Best Cabin Crew:
1. Virgin Australia
2. Virgin Atlantic
Excellence in Long-Haul Travel:
1. Delta Airlines
2. Lufthansa
3. Etihad Airways
4. Cathay Pacific
Value and Safety among Low-Cost Carriers:
1. Virgin America
2. Norwegian Air
3. Kulula Airlines
4. Scoot
Best Domestic Airline Service – Quantas
Best Catering – Quantas
Best Lounges – Quantas
Best First Class – Etihad Airways
Best Business Class – Singapore Airlines
Best Inflight Entertainment – Singapore Airlines
Best New World Carrier – Virgin Australia
