Emirates Airlines has claimed the top spot as the world’s best airline for 2024, according to rankings by The Telegraph, which assessed 90 global airlines.
The ratings were based on over 30 criteria, including flight punctuality, free baggage allowance, network of destinations, quality of the main airport, fleet age, excellence in loyalty rewards programs, and onboard meals.
The results were compiled from data across more than 18 independent international awards, reader polls, rating sites, and expert reviews.
Emirates was hailed as a “worthy winner,” scoring high marks in nearly all categories, from baggage allowance to flight punctuality, and operates the largest number of Airbus A380 double-decker jets.
The study highlighted several reasons for Emirates’ top ranking, including the superior quality of its premium economy, first, and business classes.
Additionally, its vast network spans 140 destinations in 77 countries, which led 30,000 readers of “The Telegraph Travel” to vote Emirates as the best airline for long-haul flights.
The methodology involved 90 airlines, selected based on the annual passenger volume they handle.
Points were awarded based on each carrier’s performance across various standards, such as reliability, connectivity, baggage policies, travel experience, fleet age, main airport quality, loyalty program excellence, safety, legacy, and airport lounge quality, among other criteria.
This year alone, the UAE-based carrier has garnered 19 prestigious global awards from a broad range of sources, affirming its leadership and commitment to excellence in the airline industry.
The UAE’s aviation sector has experienced robust growth in the first half of 2023, with a staggering 71.75 million passengers passing through its airports.
This represents a significant 14.2% increase compared to the 62.79 million passengers recorded during the same period in 2022. The figures, released by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), underscore the UAE’s continued ascent as a global aviation hub, bolstered by strategic investments and a strong recovery in international travel.
