APEX launches World Class airline rating

Regional carriers Emirates, Qatar Airways and Saudia recognised 

APEX, the Airline Passenger Experience Association, has announced its new World Class rating.

The rating was created in collaboration with aviation guest experience consultancy Yates and Partners to recognise excellence across a range of metrics. 

These metrics represent a new approach to airline ratings by focusing on the issues that modern travellers are most concerned about, from safety, wellbeing and sustainability to service, brand integrity, comfort and cuisine.

Speaking about the new rating, APEX/IFSA CEO Dr Joe Leader said: “This collaboration with Yates and Partners has accelerated the development of diagnostic and actionable audit processes that materialise in important changes.” 

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APEX revealed that seven airlines have so far been honoured with a World Class rating for some aspect or aspects of their service: Emirates, Japan Airlines, KLM, Qatar Airways, Saudia, Singapore Airlines and Turkish Airlines. 

Each carrier has been recognised as World Class for individual assets. Emirates was applauded for its inflight entertainment and service execution, while KLM was highlighted as a leader in sustainability. Japan Airlines was commended for warm and personal service that’s consistent across every flight and Qatar Airways lauded for its generous seat concepts and guest experience innovation. Turkish Airlines’ award highlights its culinary excellence, Saudia was awarded for its generous hospitality and Singapore Airlines was recognised for its best-in-class customer retention. 

APEX says its World Class rating is the industry’s first validated, verified and certified industry award based on passenger ratings of their travel experiences.

For more information and to see the full list of winners, visit Apex World Class