September 21, 2026, 8:36 am | Read time: 3 minutes
For international travelers, ticket prices are no longer the only consideration. Service, comfort, and quality on board play a crucial role for many passengers. These criteria are at the heart of the prestigious Skytrax awards for the world’s best airlines. The current ranking for 2026 brings a familiar name back to the top—and also shows how far Europe’s largest airline lags behind the world’s best.
Singapore Airlines Back on Top
According to the British aviation consultancy Skytrax, Singapore Airlines is the world’s best airline in 2026. This marks the sixth overall victory for the airline from Singapore. Last year, Qatar Airways held the top spot but this time has to settle for second place.
The next spots are taken by Cathay Pacific Airways, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Turkish Airlines. Once again, airlines from Asia and the Middle East dominate the global ranking.
The World’s Top Ten Airlines 2026
- Singapore Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Cathay Pacific Airways
- All Nippon Airways (ANA)
- Turkish Airlines
- Emirates
- Air France
- Japan Airlines
- Hainan Airlines
- Korean Air
Lufthansa Misses the Top Ten by a Wide Margin
In the global comparison, Lufthansa only manages to secure 14th place. Other European airlines also fail to make it into the world’s top ten. Iberia lands at 16th, Virgin Atlantic at 18th, and Swiss International Air Lines at 19th.
Turkish Airlines Leads Europe’s Ranking
Within Europe, however, the picture is different. Turkish Airlines was chosen as the continent’s leader. In this ranking, Lufthansa takes third place behind Air France.
Europe’s Best Airlines 2026
- Turkish Airlines
- Air France
- Lufthansa
- Iberia
- Virgin Atlantic
- Swiss International Air Lines
- British Airways
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
- Austrian Airlines
- Finnair
Regional Winners Around the Globe
In addition to the global rankings, Skytrax also awards regional honors. The winners in the individual world regions are:
- Asia: Bangkok Airways
- Europe: Turkish Airlines
- Africa: Ethiopian Airlines
- South America: LATAM
- North America: Air Canada
- Middle East: Qatar Airways
This Airline Has the Best Economy Class in the World
This Is the Best European Airline
Eurowings Impresses Among Low-Cost Carriers
While Lufthansa does not achieve a top position in the global overall ranking, Germany is represented among low-cost airlines. Eurowings ranks fourth among the world’s best low-cost carriers.
The Five Best Low-Cost Carriers
- AirAsia
- Scoot
- Vueling
- Eurowings
- Iberia Express
Numerous Special Awards for the Leaders
Singapore Airlines also secured awards for the best economy class and the best economy-class catering. Qatar Airways won accolades for business class, onboard Wi-Fi, and business-class lounge.
Cathay Pacific was recognized for its cabin crew and first-class lounge. Taiwanese airline STARLUX received the award for the cleanest cabin and was newly inducted into Skytrax’s five-star category.
The Best Airlines by Travel Class
- First Class: Air France
- Business Class: Qatar Airways
- Premium Economy: EVA Air
- Economy Class: Singapore Airlines
- Economy-Class Catering: Singapore Airlines
- Business-Class Lounge Dining: Air Canada
The Skytrax awards are based on a global customer survey. The evaluation includes service quality, cabin equipment, onboard catering, and cleanliness.