Asian aviation giants have once again taken the lead in the world rankings. Singapore’s Changi Airport and Qatar Airways have taken the world’s top spots on their routes.
The results of the prestigious awards given by Skytrax World Airport Awards and AirlineRatings.com for 2026 have been announced. Representatives of the Asian region continue to occupy the top spots on the list. Singapore’s Changi Airport has been recognized as the “Airport of the Year” for the 14th time in its history. Among airlines, Qatar Airways has become the world’s best airline, leaving behind last year’s winner Korean Air.
All five of the world’s best airports are located in Asia: Changi (Singapore), Incheon (Republic of Korea), Haneda (Tokyo, Japan), Hong Kong (China), Narita (Japan).
Interestingly, Hamad International Airport in Doha, which took second place last year, did not make the list this time. This was after the airport announced it was withdrawing from all international exhibitions and award programs due to the situation in the Middle East.
Europe’s leaders
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport was named the best in Europe for the fourth consecutive year (6th in the world). It was followed by Rome (Fiumicino), Istanbul and Munich airports. Budapest Airport was named the best airport in Eastern Europe, while London Heathrow Airport was named the best airport for business.
Airlines and new categories
Qatar Airways is followed by Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines and Korean Air. Turkish Airlines (7th in the world) was named the best full-service airline in Europe.
This year, the German company Lufthansa came first among the “hybrid” airlines (those offering low-cost or full-service services depending on the flight time). Experts particularly noted its economical short-haul service and high-quality long-haul service (with Allegris seats).
AirBaltic ranked fourth among low-cost airlines in Europe. The list was also topped by popular airlines such as easyJet, Wizz Air and Ryanair.
