International

Singapore Airlines Named World’s Best Airline for 2026

19 September 2026 19:09 PM

NEWS DESK

Amid mounting challenges facing the global aviation industry—including wars, the climate crisis, rising fuel prices and passenger misconduct—Singapore Airlines has been named the world’s best airline for 2026.

The airline received the top honor at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, widely regarded as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.”

This marks the sixth time Singapore Airlines has won the world’s best airline award in the 25-year history of the rankings. The carrier previously won the title in 2023, 2018 and several times during the 2000s.

Last year’s winner, Qatar Airways, finished second this year. Qatar Airways has won the prestigious award nine times over the past 15 years.

Following Qatar Airways in the top six were Cathay Pacific Airways, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Turkish Airlines and Emirates.

No US airline made the top 20 this year. Air Canada was the only North American carrier to make the list.

According to CNN, the awards are based on Skytrax’s global customer satisfaction survey. Singapore Airlines also won awards for World’s Best Economy Class and World’s Best Economy Class Catering.

Qatar Airways took the awards for World’s Best Business Class, Best Airline Inflight Wi-Fi and Best Business Class Lounge, while Cathay Pacific won World’s Best Airline Cabin Crew and World’s Best First Class Lounge.

Singapore Airlines Chief Executive Officer Goh Choon Phong said in a statement that the award was recognition of the dedication and professionalism of the airline’s employees.

In other categories, Air France won Best First Class, EVA Air was named Best Premium Economy Class, and AirAsia won the Best Low-Cost Airline award.

Bangkok Airways was named the best airline in Asia, while Ethiopian Airlines topped the African category. LATAM Airlines was named the best airline in South America, and Turkish Airlines won the award for Europe.

The awards ceremony also highlighted the continuing challenges facing the aviation industry. Airline executives discussed the impact of the conflict involving Iran, Russia’s war in Ukraine, rising oil prices, delays in the delivery of new aircraft and deteriorating international relations involving the United States.

Skytrax Chief Executive Officer Edward Plaisted said that despite the difficult operating environment, the quality of passenger service continues to improve.

Air Canada Executive Vice President Mark Nasr said rising fuel costs could make premium services increasingly important, as airlines able to charge higher prices for premium offerings may be better positioned to maintain sustainable operations.