Qatar Airways has been named the best airline in the world for 2017 by the leading consumer-aviation website Skytrax.
The Doha, Qatar-based airline was presented with the award on Tuesday at a ceremony during the 2017 Paris Air Show.
This is the fourth time Qatar has garnered this honor with wins in 2011, 2012, and 2015.
In a statement, Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker wrote:
"For Qatar Airways to be named the World’s Best Airline particularly at this critical point in time, is a significant testimony of our passengers’ belief and trust in our unwavering commitment to deliver only the best. This award is also a reflection of the hard work and dedication of every employee at Qatar Airways. Our recognition at Skytrax this year is especially important as these awards are voted by travelers. To them, I offer my sincere thanks, and I look forward to welcoming them on board soon."
Overall, airlines from Asia dominate the elite end of Skytrax's rankings — taking nine of the top 10 spots. At the same time, no US airline cracked the top 30. Delta got the closest to the top with a 32nd place finish.
The Skytrax rankings are based on the impressions of 19.87 million travelers from 105 different countries. The survey, which covered more than 325 airlines, measured 49 parameters ranging from boarding procedures to seat comfort to the quality of service.
Here are the 20 best airlines in the world, according to the results of the Skytrax survey:
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20. Asiana
Previous rank: 16
Why it's awesome: Once again, South Korea's Asiana earns high marks from Skytrax for its cabin crew, cleanliness, and economy class products. Asiana currently operates a fleet of modern Airbus and Boeing jets.
See additional airline information at Skytrax.
19. Air New Zealand
Previous rank: 17
Why it's awesome: Even though Air New Zealand lost the titles of World's Best Premium Economy Class and World's Best Premium Economy Seat to Aussie rival Qantas, the Kiwi carrier remains one of the industry's finest long-haul carriers.
In economy class, families can opt for the airlines innovative Skycouch that transforms a bank of three economy seats into a flat activity area.
See additional airline information at Skytrax.
18. Air France
Previous rank: 14
Why it's awesome: Even though Air France's resurgence took a slight step backward this year, the airline's service and quality remains top notch. Over the past couple of years, the carrier has suffered through a series of labor and financial issues. However, this hasn't stopped Air France from rolling out an impressive lineup of new product offerings, including the impressive "La Premiere" first-class suites.
See additional airline information at Skytrax.
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