London — Skytrax has published its latest survey, with eight African Airlines falling into the ‘Top 100’ global airlines writes SAM OKWAKOL
The Skytrax awards are a global benchmark in quality and safety and are widely known as the “Passenger’s Choice Awards” due to their selection process.
At end of it all, Emirates emerged as the first airline of choice, followed by Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines Cathay Pacific and ANA All Nippon Airways. Coming sixth was Etihad Airways, then Turkish Airlines, EVA Air, Qantas Airways and finally Lufthansa.
Consumers from across the globe take part in a satisfaction survey to determine the winners; no external sponsorship, payment or influence alters the results.
Kenya Airways (KQ) upset the odds by winning Africa’s Leading Airline at the 2016 World Travel Awards.
The Nairobi-based carrier unseated South Africa Airways as Africa’s best airline, an award SAA had taken home for 22 years in a row. The ceremony was held at Farnborough Airshow in the UK recently.
Ethiopian Airlines won Best Airline in Economy award.
KQ also won the ‘Best in Business Class’ award, clinching both the overall and luxury travel recognition, something many airlines struggle to do.
Chris Diaz, the KQ Marketing Director, said, “This is sign enough that we are putting the dark clouds behind us to cruise unimpeded as Africa’s most respected airline.”
Air Mauritius and Air Seychelles are beaten only by South African Airways on Skytrax’ list. Experts say their prominence as travel leaders is due to their luxury locations and high levels of international tourism which drives expectations and assures quality.
Air Mauritius has code sharing agreements with Emirates and other world class airlines. Air Seychelles boasts Etihad as a stakeholder.