As air travel continues to expand, a select number of airlines have distinguished themselves by maintaining exceptional safety standards. According to the latest report from AirlineRatings.com, seven airlines have achieved top rankings for safety in 2025, based on criteria such as operational protocols, incident records, and fleet age. This article highlights these airlines and what makes them stand out in the competitive aviation landscape.
Jetstar Airways: A Low-Cost Leader with High Safety Standards
Jetstar Airways, a subsidiary of the Qantas Group, has earned recognition as the second-safest low-cost carrier in the world for 2025, trailing only HK Express. Since its inception in 2004, Jetstar has maintained an impeccable safety record, with no fatal incidents reported. Its adherence to the maintenance standards and safety management systems developed by its parent company has played a significant role in this achievement. As of late 2025, Jetstar is undergoing a fleet upgrade, replacing older aircraft with the more fuel-efficient Airbus A321LR.
The airline’s long-haul operations are particularly noteworthy, as it operates a dedicated fleet of Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, connecting Australia to destinations like Japan, South Korea, and Hawaii. Despite its reputation for cost-cutting, Jetstar’s commitment to safety remains unquestionable.
HK Express: Setting New Standards as the Safest LCC
Selected as the safest low-cost carrier globally, HK Express has achieved a 7-Star PLUS safety rating for 2025. This recognition, the first of its kind for a low-cost airline, resulted from rigorous audits assessing various safety criteria, including cabin safety and operational protocols. Operating an all-Airbus A320 family fleet, with an average age under eight years, HK Express has plans to expand its fleet from approximately 44 aircraft to 60 by 2028, serving around 30 destinations across Asia.
The airline’s no-frills model allows passengers to customize their travel experience while maintaining a strong reputation for reliability.
Emirates: A Pillar of Safety and Luxury
With a 7-Star PLUS safety rating, Emirates has solidified its position as one of the safest airlines in the world. Tied for third place in the rankings, Emirates has never experienced a fatal accident in the jet era of commercial aviation. In 2025, the airline became the fastest-growing operator of the Airbus A350-900, with 13 new units delivered this year.
Emirates also announced plans to expand its fleet, adding 65 new Boeing 777-9 aircraft and eight new A350s to its backlog, bringing its total commitment to over 300 new aircraft. The airline’s commitment to passenger experience includes offering free, high-speed Starlink WiFi to its retrofitted and newly delivered aircraft.
Qatar Airways: Consistent Excellence in Service and Safety
As the flag carrier of Qatar, Qatar Airways is renowned for its high standards of service and an exemplary safety record. With no fatal passenger crashes since its inception in 1994, the airline holds a 5-Star Skytrax ranking and a maximum seven-star safety rating from AirlineRatings.com. In March 2025, Qatar Airways was named the “World’s Best Airline” for the ninth consecutive year, reflecting its commitment to quality and passenger satisfaction.
Operating a modern fleet of over 200 aircraft, Qatar Airways recently completed the installation of free, high-speed Starlink satellite internet across its entire fleet. The airline’s average fleet age is approximately 10.1 years.
Cathay Pacific: Leading with Safety Innovations
In a historic achievement, Cathay Pacific became the first full-service airline to receive the 7-Star PLUS safety rating from AirlineRatings.com in 2025. This recognition followed a comprehensive 70-point audit evaluating operational safety and passenger safety procedures. The airline’s passenger network reached over 100 destinations in the first half of 2025, supported by a fleet of 234 aircraft with an average age between 12.3 and 12.9 years.
Cathay Pacific has also been upgrading its offerings, recently completing the rollout of its new Aria Suite Business Class on retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which now feature enhanced privacy and entertainment options.
Qantas: A Legacy of Safety
Known as “The Flying Kangaroo,” Qantas has a remarkable safety record, with no fatalities during the jet era. In 2025, it ranked second among mainline carriers. The airline’s average fleet age is approximately 16 years, as it embarks on the largest fleet renewal in its history, replacing older models with new Airbus A220 and A321XLR aircraft.
Qantas is also pioneering the ambitious “Project Sunrise,” set to launch the world’s longest nonstop flights from Sydney to London and New York, with the first specially designed Airbus A350-1000 expected to be delivered in late 2026.
Air New Zealand: The Safest Airline in the World
In 2025, Air New Zealand was named the safest airline in the world by AirlineRatings.com, thanks to its modern fleet and reliable operations in challenging weather conditions. The airline has not experienced a significant accident since 1979 and operates 115 aircraft, including Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and 777-300ERs.
With an average fleet age of around 10.5 years, Air New Zealand is also recognized for its innovative cabin products, such as the Skycouch and the Skynest, which will debut in 2026.
These airlines exemplify the highest standards of safety and service in the aviation industry, ensuring that passengers can travel with confidence.
