Qantas stripped of top 10 airline ranking but low cost carrier makes the list
Source: Melbourne Airport
Embattled Middle Eastern carrier Qatar Airways has returned to the top of the world’s airline rankings, while low-cost Australian carrier Jetstar has also had a stellar year.
Qatar was named at the top of Australian-based aviation safety and product rating agency AirlineRatings.com’s annual list when it was announced on Thursday.
It marks a return to prime spot for Qatar after it was pipped by Korean Air in the 2025 list. It is the 10th time Qatar has topped the list.
“It was a tight competition at the top, but Qatar’s value proposition, combined with a superior economy product and award-winning business class, secured that top position once again,” AirlineRatings.com chief executive Sharon Petersen said.
Qatar sealed its place at the top with consistent good service and innovation.
“Qatar Airways has consistently delivered a premium product across all cabins, ensuring economy passengers are not left behind,” Petersen said.
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“At AirlineRatings.com, we have independently travelled on many global airlines over the past 12 months, and Qatar Airways consistently provides a flawless experience, further cementing its commitment to product and service consistency.”
The 2026 award comes as Qatar continues to limit flights amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.
“Qatar Airways will operate a revised limited number of flights from March 18 to March 28. These schedules have been enhanced to give more flexibility to passengers wishing to travel,” the airline said in its latest website update.
“Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe full reopening of Qatari airspace.”
Air travel across the Middle East remains severely disrupted by the conflict between the US-Israel and Iran, which has triggered widespread airspace closures and operational challenges for airlines.
Key aviation corridors have been shut or restricted, forcing carriers to cancel flights or reroute aircraft on longer, more costly paths. Surging jet fuel prices and heightened safety concerns have compounded the crisis.
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Where the rest came
Korean Air, which was acknowledged for the strength of its economy cabin in 2025, fell to fourth spot this year.
Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines filled the second and third spots.
Qantas was just outside the top 10 at 12th, pipped by transtasman rival Air New Zealand at ninth.
Qantas had better luck with its budget division, Jetstar, which was runner-up in the global rankings for low-cost carriers – and named best low-cost long-haul airline. Jetstar was also No.2 in the low-cost list for 2025.
“Jetstar Airways has built a strong network across Asia-Pacific using its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, offering passengers low fares alongside optional add-ons such as meals, baggage, and seat selection,” AirlineRatings.com noted.
“The inclusion of inflight entertainment, seatback power, and a 30-inch seat (76-centimetre) pitch makes it a more attractive option over other low-cost long-haul carriers.”
There was also special commendation for Jetstar’s onboard inflight entertainment options and in-seat power.
HK Express, which is owned by Cathay Pacific, was named the world’s No.1 budget carrier.
“HK Express may not appear the obvious choice for the world’s best low-cost carrier, forgoing extras like Wi Fi and inflight entertainment that many top 10 competitors now offer,” Petersen said.
“However, where it wins is its consistently excellent cabin crew and undoubtedly the world’s best low-cost carrier onboard menu. The menu, which we have been able to sample, is a defining highlight, offering a true taste of traditional Hong Kong street food alongside a selection of international favourites. The culinary experience is as much a part of the journey as the destination itself.”
AirAsia was in third while fourth went to AirBaltic and fifth to Singapore airline’s budget carrier Scoot.
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