Air New Zealand named 'Airline of the Year' by AirlineRatings

Air New Zealand has been named 'Airline of the Year' by AirlineRatings.com, marking the second year in a row that the Kiwi carrier has been recognised "for its award winning in-flight innovations, record financial performance, operational safety and motivation of its staff."

The AirlineRatings team also highlighted Air New Zealand’s commitment to a young technologically advanced fleet.

AirNZ CEO Chris Luxon with AirlineRatings editor-in-chief Geoffrey Thomas

AirNZ also won Best Premium Economy Class, while Cathay Pacific was once again singled out for Best Business Class.

Etihad Airways picked up Best First Class for its new Airbus 380 and Boeing 787 product.

Best Economy Class went to Thai Airways and Best In-Flight Entertainment to Emirates.

Qantas was recognised for Best Domestic Service, Best Catering and Best Lounges, while Virgin Australia won Best Cabin Crew and 'Best New World Carrier', an award which AirlineRatings said "recognises the transformation that many airlines are trying to meet rapidly changing market demands."

Other winners included  Scoot, EVA Air, Lufthansa, JetBlue, Norwegian, Bangkok Airways and LAN Chile.

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David Flynn

David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.