Qatar Airways receives airline of the year accolade

The carrier came top in a list compiled by AirlineRatings 

Qatar Airways has won this year’s AirlineRatings Airline of the Year award, replacing last year’s winner, Air New Zealand.

The Doha-based carrier also came top in categories including Best Middle East Airline, Best Catering and Best Business Class. This marks the third year in a row that Qatar Airways has been awarded the Best Business Class accolade, recognising its patented Qsuite product.

The AirlineRatings ‘Airline of the Year’ award acknowledges the best overall aviation practice, with a focus on product innovation, good route network and overall safety. 

Qatar Airways beat Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines to the top spot, followed by Qantas, Emirates and Cathay Pacific.

AirlineRatings.com editor-in-chief Geoffrey Thomas said: “Airline Ratings’ Excellence awards are aptly named, for, at every touchpoint, excellence is the goal at Qatar Airways led by its inspirational group chief executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker.

“Mr. Al Baker’s drive for perfection has led to many improvements in both Airbus and Boeing aircraft and travellers across the world are better off because of the drive and the pursuit of excellence of Qatar Airways.” 

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Speaking about the accolades, Akbar Al Baker said: “Receiving the 2021 Airline of the Year, Best Middle East Airline, Best Catering and Best Business Class awards by AirlineRatings is particularly special for Qatar Airways. Over the past 16 months, the aviation industry has witnessed some of its darkest days, but Qatar Airways has continued to operate and stand by our passengers despite many other airlines halting operations due to the pandemic.

“Qatar Airways continues to reach new heights and set industry standards that deliver unrivalled passenger experience because it is in our DNA to do everything with excellence. Our commitment is to provide the highest possible level of health and safety standards both on the ground and in the air, with 5-star service at the core of our business.”

Recent figures from travel data provider OAG highlight that Qatar Airways continues to be the world’s largest airline, offering more global connectivity than any other.

The full list of 2021 winners can be found here.