Air New Zealand Named ‘Most Excellent’ Airlines for 2018

(Source: Travel Weekly China)

Air New Zealand, for the fifth consecutive year has been named the winner of Airline Excellence Awards, which is created by Australia-based aviation safety and product rating agency AirlineRatings.

Celebrating the best in the aviation industry — from budget operators to culinary champions — the awards named Air New Zealand as Airline of the Year for 2018. Previously also, the airline has been named in the top ranks for its innovative in-flight services to safety videos.

"Air New Zealand came out number one — or equal first — in all of our audit criteria, which is an exceptional performance," the AirlineRatings judging panel said.

In-flight product

The award is based on four major international industry and government safety audits as well as fleet age, passenger reviews, profitability, investment ratings and key product offerings. Passenger experience is also one of the major things that they take into account.

Singapore Airlines took top spot for First Class in the premium stakes where the AirlineRatings stated it to be "synonymous with excellence of in-flight product."

Virgin Australia bagged the best business class award for the second consecutive year. Virgin's "The Business" suite is a luxurious offering — unrivaled by other executive options.

AirlineRatings also reviewed the economy options — Air New Zealand won Best Premium Economy, whilst Best Economy went to Korean Air in recognition of its spacious seats.

Best Catering award went to Qantas while it also got awarded for Best Lounges and Best Domestic Class.

Alongside the Airline Excellence Award winners, AirlineRatings announced its Top 10 airlines for 2018.

AirlineRatings.com's top 10 airlines for 2018

Air New Zealand

Qantas Airways

Singapore Airlines

Virgin Australia

Virgin Atlantic

Etihad Airways

All Nippon Airways

Korean Air

Cathay Pacific Airways

Japan Airlines