As a counterpoint to our post on the 15 Worst Airlines in the World, here’s the flip side. While many people complain about plane travel these days, there are some carriers who are getting it right. Airline quality review site Skytrax recently released a list of the best airlines in the world for 2016. Results were based on an extensive survey of over 19 million passengers from 104 countries. They contributed feedback on 41 key performance indicators such as seat comfort, in-flight entertainment, cabin cleanliness, meal quality and service excellence. The following carriers were honored at the World Airline Awards. Many of the winners have long been regarded among the best airlines in the world, but some may surprise you.
15. Swiss International Air Lines Will Take You to the Alps in Style
It’s an impressive feat for Swiss International Air Lines to be recognized on this list of best airlines in the world as this offshoot of defunct Swissair has only been in operation since 2002. It has a young fleet of wide-body jets and is renowned for its award-winning food and friendly customer service. Boredom is never an issue on Swiss International, which has all the on-demand in-flight entertainment you could want. Catering to skiers heading to the Swiss Alps, this airline also has generous allotments for transporting sports equipment.
14. Air France Brings a Certain Je Ne Sais Quoi to the Skies
Last year Air France won the award for World’s Most Improved Airline, as it shot up the ranks 10 places. This year it lands in the impressive number 14 spot, despite having undergone some labor and financial turbulence. They unveiled some new offerings such as their très bien “La Premiere” first-class suites which put them in good standing. This year, Air France also won for Best First Class Airline Lounge Dining and Best First Class Comfort Amenities.
13. Epicureans with a Taste for Asian Cuisine Will Love Thai Airways
Thai Airways, the flagship airline of Thailand, has long been praised for its quality service. Their business and first class service is exceptional but its spacious economy service holds its own as well. Thai Airways is particularly renowned for its delicious cuisine, which includes a wide range of Asian and Western dishes. Extra touches like toys for young passengers, airport lounge spas and generous baggage allotments helped give Thai Airways a nod as one of the best airlines in the world. This year they were singled out as World’s Most Improved Airline as well as a nod for World’s Best Airline Spa Facilities.
