Skytrax has released its World’s Top 100 Airlines 2025 list, with Qatar Airways announced as the winner on Tuesday at the Paris Air Show. According to the London-based international air transport rating organisation, this marks the Qatari flag carrier’s ninth win in the 26-year history of the award.
Qatar Airways Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer called it “an extraordinary honour” in a press release, reflecting on the relentless pursuit of excellence needed to retain the title in a highly competitive and ever-evolving global industry. “This recognition is far more than an award, it is a celebration of the passion, precision and purpose that defines who we are as an airline.”
In addition to the top award, Qatar Airways also won awards for Best Airline in the Middle East, Best Business Class and Best Business Class Lounge, as well as Skytrax Five-Star Airline recognition.
“These accolades reaffirm our ambition not only to lead, but to redefine what exceptional service means in aviation,” Al-Meer said. “Whether on the ground or in the air, we strive to deliver a seamless, elevated journey that anticipates the needs of our passengers and reflects the highest standards of quality, comfort, and innovation.”
[See more: Cathay Pacific says it plans to hire more mainland Chinese staff]
Asia shined in several categories, with carriers in China, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand and Malaysia all nabbing top spots. Malaysian AirAsia won World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, with Singapore’s Scoot and India’s Indigo rounding out the top three.
Bangkok Airways took home the title of World’s Best Regional Airline for the ninth consecutive year, while Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific beat out Emirates and Qatar Airways for World’s Best Inflight Entertainment. All Nippon Airways again took home the award for the World’s Best Airport Services, as well as an Asia-specific award for staff service, while China’s state-owned Hainan Airlines won World’s Best Business Class Comfort Amenities, as well as two China-specific awards.
Asian airlines also accounted for nearly half of the World’s Top 20 Airlines, led by Singapore Airlines (in 2nd place), Cathay Pacific (3rd), All Nippon Airways (5th), Korean Air (7th), Japan Airlines (9th) and Hainan Airlines (10th). Singapore Airlines’ stellar overall showing is reflected in other awards, also taking the top prize for World’s Best Cabin Crew and World’s Best First Class, as well as a win for Best Airline in Asia, one of the most competitive regions for airline service standards.
Taiwan-based carriers rounded out the list of Asian airlines in the top 20 at number 12 (EVA Air) and 18 (STARLUX Airlines). Quality enhancements across the entire awards programme also netted STARLUX Airlines the title of World’s Most Improved Airline, and its first Five-Star Airline Rating – one of just 11 carriers worldwide to hold the distinction.
