In a landmark announcement that has reshaped the aviation landscape, AirlineRatings.com has declared Air New Zealand the world’s safest airline for the year 2024. This accolade, a testament to the airline’s unwavering commitment to safety and innovation, propels it to the zenith of the aviation sector, surpassing last year’s front-runner, Qantas.
Geoffrey Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of AirlineRatings.com, underscored the significance of this recognition. “Our Top Twenty-Five Safest Airlines represent the pinnacle of the industry, leading the charge in safety, innovation, and the adoption of new aircraft,” he stated. The distinction between these elite airlines is incredibly fine, with Air New Zealand edging out Qantas by a mere 1.5 points, he added.
AirlineRatings.com, renowned for its comprehensive safety and product evaluations, bases its judgments on an array of criteria. These include serious incidents, recent fatal accidents, audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, profitability, industry-leading safety initiatives, expert pilot training assessment, and fleet age. Notably, factors beyond the airlines’ control, such as bird strikes and weather-related diversions, do not weigh in the evaluation process.
Air New Zealand’s ascension to the top is not merely a victory but a reflection of its holistic approach to safety. The airline has demonstrated excellence in every aspect of safety, down to the minutest detail. Moreover, its pilots are adept at navigating some of the most challenging environments in the world.
In addition to Air New Zealand’s triumph, AirlineRatings.com also spotlighted the Top Twenty-Five and Top Twenty Safest Low-Cost Airlines for 2024. This list includes globally recognized names such as Virgin Australia, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Emirates, alongside low-cost carriers like Jetstar, easyJet, and Ryanair. These airlines, as Mr. Thomas noted, are distinguished by their exceptional safety culture and low incident rates.
The rankings for 2024 are not only a commendation of Air New Zealand’s unparalleled safety measures but also serve as a beacon of excellence for the entire aviation industry. In a world where air travel is a ubiquitous part of our lives, this recognition underscores the paramount importance of safety and reliability in air transportation.
This prestigious title marks a new chapter for Air New Zealand, setting it apart as a leader in an industry where safety is paramount and continuous improvement a necessity.
Written by: Michelle Warner
