oneworld®, the premier airline alliance with 15 member airlines, was named “Best Alliance” in Business Traveller’s 2026 Cellars in the Sky Awards, one of the industry’s most respected wine and beverage awards programmes. The recognition honours the collective excellence of oneworld member airlines’ wine and beverage offerings and reflects the quality of entries submitted by carriers across the alliance.
“We are honoured to receive this accolade from Business Travellers’ prestigious Cellars in the Sky Awards and are delighted to see our members enjoy such strong recognition,” said Ole Orvér, CEO of oneworld. “This award underscores our member airlines’ commitment to elevating the travel experience through thoughtful and innovative beverage programmes that continue to raise the standard for onboard hospitality.”
In total, oneworld member airlines scooped 21 gold awards, further reinforcing oneworld’s commitment to delivering premium travel experiences throughout its network. These included nine gold awards for Qantas; four each for Cathay Pacific and Qatar Airways; two for Malaysia Airlines; and one each for Alaska Airlines and British Airways.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the Cellars in the Sky Awards have been recognised as the benchmark for excellence in airline wine programmes. Originally established to honour the finest wines served onboard commercial aircraft, the awards have now evolved to distinguish innovation across various beverage programmes, including airport lounge offerings, signature beverages, strategic drinks partnerships, no- and low alcohol offerings, and more.
The Best Alliance award highlights the consistency and significance of premium beverage experiences delivered by oneworld member airlines, both in the air and on the ground. All entries were assessed through a rigorous blind-tasting process conducted by an independent panel of internationally recognized wine experts, including Charles Metcalfe, Sam Caporn MW, Peter McCombie MW and John Worontschak, supported by host and industry consultant Kelly Stevenson. Wines were evaluated without reference to airline, producer, brand, or price point, ensuring complete impartiality.
