No European carrier in Skytrax’s 2026 Five-Star Airline list
Carriers from Asia and Middle East dominate ranking
Dhaka: European airlines have once again missed out on the aviation industry's most prestigious quality rating, as Skytrax's latest five-star airline list is dominated by carriers from Asia and the Middle East.
The London-based air
transport rating organization awards its coveted five-star status only to
airlines that meet strict standards across customer service, onboard
experience, and airport operations. In 2026, just ten airlines worldwide
achieved the distinction, and none were based in Europe.
The airlines receiving
five-star recognition this year are All Nippon Airways (ANA), Asiana Airlines,
Cathay Pacific, EVA Air, Hainan Airlines, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Qatar
Airways, Singapore Airlines, and STARLUX Airlines.
Skytrax evaluates
airlines through detailed audits covering cabin comfort, staff performance,
cleanliness, food and beverage quality, airport services, and operational
consistency. Unlike many rankings, the organization says its ratings are not
primarily based on customer reviews but on independent assessments of product
and service quality.
Japan's ANA maintained
its impressive streak by securing five-star status for the 13th consecutive
year, while Taiwan-based EVA Air earned the recognition for the 11th year in a
row. Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways also retained their places among the
industry's elite, with both carriers continuing to receive praise for their
premium onboard experience and service standards.
One of the most notable
inclusions is Taiwan's STARLUX Airlines. Despite launching only six years ago,
the carrier has quickly built a reputation for high-quality service and a
modern fleet, helping it join the exclusive five-star club.
