Each year, Skytrax, a well-known consumer aviation website, releases a list of the world’s best airlines. Although airlines from Asia usually dominate these rankings, European airlines have shown they can hold their own against tough competition. This year, five European airlines made it into the top 20, with two ranking in the top 10.
The World Airline Awards, often dubbed “the Oscars of the aviation industry,” are highly sought-after accolades in the airline world. These awards serve as a global benchmark for airline excellence. Passengers from all over the world participate annually in the largest airline passenger satisfaction survey to determine the winners. The Skytrax survey and awards process is completely transparent and independent, with no financial influence from airlines or other organizations.
The Skytrax rankings are based on feedback from 19.87 million travelers hailing from 105 different countries. The survey reviewed more than 325 airlines and assessed 49 parameters, including boarding procedures, seat comfort, and service quality.
Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 European airlines:
Virgin Atlantic (Overall rank: 33)
Virgin Atlantic is the pride of Sir Richard Branson’s aviation investments. However, Delta Airlines owns 49% of it, making Delta VA’s largest individual shareholder, while the Virgin Group holds only 20%. Despite this, Virgin Atlantic’s service, product, and ambiance still reflect Branson’s influence, from the purple mood lighting to the chic crew uniforms.
Aeroflot (Overall rank: 30)
Aeroflot’s reputation in the West might be of old Soviet planes chugging through harsh Russian winters, but in reality, it’s a modern airline. Today, Aeroflot operates a fleet of new Airbus and Boeing jets. Skytrax named Aeroflot the Best Airline in Eastern Europe for 2017.
Norwegian (Overall rank: 28)
Norwegian has been a game-changer in commercial aviation over the past decade, reintroducing no-frills economy flying across the North Atlantic. This year, Skytrax honored Norwegian as the Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe and the World’s Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline.
Finnair (Overall rank: 25)
Moving up two spots this year, Finnair ranked as the 25th best airline globally. The Helsinki-based carrier, recognized as the Best Airline in Northern Europe by Skytrax, operates an all-Airbus mainline fleet, with regional operations using Bombardier and Embraer aircraft.
KLM (Overall rank: 22)
KLM, the world’s oldest continuously operating airline, is the Dutch component of the Air France-KLM group. The Amsterdam-based airline is undergoing a significant fleet upgrade, incorporating new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and a revamped World Business Class cabin.
Air France (Overall rank: 18)
Despite some setbacks due to labor and financial issues, Air France maintains top-notch service and quality. The airline has introduced several impressive new products recently, including the luxurious “La Premiere” first-class suites.
Austrian Airlines (Overall rank: 17)
In 2017, Austrian Airlines, owned by Lufthansa, earned the award for Best Airline Staff Service in Europe. The Austrian flag carrier operates an upgraded fleet of long-haul Boeing 767-300ER and 777-200 jets from its Vienna hub. The airline is praised for its efficient service, onboard dining, and entertainment options.
Swiss International Air Lines (Overall rank: 14)
Swiss International Air Lines, part of the Lufthansa group since 2002, was the first to operate the Bombardier C-Series airliner in 2016. While some passengers found the economy seats less comfortable, most commended the friendly cabin crew and appreciated the wide selection of complimentary beverages and Swiss chocolates.
Turkish Airlines (Overall rank: 12)
Turkish Airlines, based at Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport, flies to over 100 countries and more than 200 cities worldwide. Despite political unrest and security challenges, Turkish Airlines maintains high-quality service. The airline has won awards for Best Business Class Airline Lounge, Best Airline in Southern Europe, and Best Business Class Onboard Catering.
Lufthansa (Overall rank: 7)
As Europe’s largest airline, Lufthansa has climbed into the top 10 thanks to exceptional service and product quality. For the best experience, long-haul passengers should try the newer A380 superjumbos and 747-8 Intercontinental jets. Lufthansa was also named Best Airline in Europe and recognized for Best First Class Airline Lounge Dining.