By Charles Switzer
10:59am PST, Jan 17, 2025
Air New Zealand Tops the Global List
Air New Zealand has been named the world's safest airline for 2025, reclaiming the top position it held in previous years, and making
New Zealand the world's safest nation for air travel. The airline's commitment to safety is underscored by its modern fleet and "rigorous pilot training programs," which are "paramount" for the company, a flight expert shared.
Despite operating long-haul flights, such as the 8,828-mile route between Auckland and New York's JFK Airport, Air New Zealand maintains an exemplary safety record.
The airline's proactive approach to incident management and continuous investment in newer aircraft have contributed to its leading status, a
report stated.
Qantas: A Close Second
Australian carrier Qantas secured the second spot in the 2025 safety rankings, narrowly trailing Air New Zealand by just 1.50 points.
Both airlines uphold the highest safety standards and pilot training; however, Air New Zealand's younger fleet provided a slight edge.
Additionally, Qantas has a storied history of safety excellence and continues to be a benchmark for operational reliability in the aviation industry.
Alaska Airlines Leads U.S. Carriers
Among U.S. airlines,
Alaska Airlines emerged as the safest, ranking ninth globally. This recognition comes despite a 2024 incident where a door opened mid-flight, which was attributed to a manufacturing defect rather than any lapse in the airline's safety protocols.
The airline's inclusion in the top ten reflects its steadfast commitment to maintaining "high safety standards and effective incident management," the expert said.
Other Notable U.S. Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines also featured prominently in the global safety rankings, securing the 12th and 13th positions, respectively. Their placement highlights the emphasis these carriers place on "safety protocols, fleet maintenance and comprehensive pilot training" programs, the release observed. These rankings serve as a testament to the rigorous safety measures implemented by U.S. airlines to ensure passenger well-being.
Top Low-Cost Carriers
In the low-cost airline category, Hong Kong Express was recognized as the safest, followed by Jetstar Group, Ryanair and easyJet. These airlines have demonstrated that budget-friendly services can coexist with stringent safety standards. Their commitment to "maintaining robust safety records challenges the perception that low-cost carriers compromise on safety," the flight source explained.
Methodology Behind the Rankings
AirlineRatings.com's safety rankings are derived from a meticulous analysis of various factors. The evaluation process involves monitoring 385 airlines globally, providing passengers with a comprehensive assessment to make informed travel decisions.
It is important to note the rankings aim to highlight airlines that prioritize safety, encouraging continuous improvement across the industry as opposed to comfort, speed and more.
