Air New Zealand has topped the list and was named airline of the year by AirlineRatings.com. This marks the sixth time that the airline placed first in the list and was praised for its multi-award-winning in-flight innovations and operational safety. Additionally, the staff’s motivation and environmental leadership continued to help Air New Zealand to regain the title. 

The safety and product-rating website explained, “These factors have stamped the airline as a clear industry leader.” The ranking was decided by 7 judges who have experience in the industry. The criteria considered were fleet age, passenger reviews, profitability, investment rating, product offerings, and staff relations. 

The Kiwi airline came out on top in most of the criteria mentioned, according to the website editor in chief Geoffrey Thomas. He said, “Air New Zealand's commitment to excellence in all facets of its business starts at the top with outstanding governance and one of the best executive teams in aviation through to a workforce that is delivering consistently to the airline's strategy and customer promise.”

The award conveys the hard work of the airline’s staff, said the acting chief executive Jeff McDowall. It currently has 12,500 workers. 

Furthermore, the airline was also awarded the best Premium Economy award.

Following Air New Zealand in the list are Singapore Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Qantas, Cathay Pacific and Emirates.