Qatar Airways Wins Ninth Skytrax Airline of the Year Title 2025

Qatar Airways Retains Skytrax ‘Airline of the Year’ Title for a Record Ninth Time

Qatar Airways has once again cemented its position at the pinnacle of global aviation by winning the Skytrax ‘World’s Best Airline’ award for an unprecedented ninth time in 2025. This accolade is not just a ceremonial title, it is a testament to the airline’s enduring commitment to excellence across every facet of the travel experience. From its premium cabin innovations to its operational resilience and strategic growth, Qatar Airways continues to set industry benchmarks.

In addition to the top honor, the airline also secured several other prestigious recognitions: ‘World’s Best Business Class’, ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’, and ‘Best Business Class Airline Lounge’ for its Al Mourjan Lounge – The Garden at Hamad International Airport. These awards highlight the airline’s holistic approach to passenger satisfaction, both in the air and on the ground.

Qatar Airways’ Rise to Global Prominence

From Regional Carrier to Global Powerhouse

Qatar Airways began its journey in 1994 with a modest fleet and regional ambitions. Initially operating two Airbus A310s, the airline focused on Middle Eastern routes before gradually expanding its network. By the late 1990s, the airline had already started international services to cities like London, signaling its intent to become a global player.

The appointment of Akbar Al Baker as CEO in 1997 marked a turning point. Under his leadership, the airline adopted an aggressive modernization strategy. It became the first carrier to operate the Airbus A340-600 and later joined the oneworld alliance in 2013, expanding its global reach significantly.

Key infrastructure developments, such as the opening of Hamad International Airport in 2014, provided the necessary backbone for Qatar Airways’ global ambitions. With cutting-edge facilities and a focus on premium service, the airport has become a critical hub in the airline’s network.

“These accolades reaffirm our ambition not only to lead, but to redefine what exceptional service means in aviation.” — Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group CEO

Financial Resilience and Operational Excellence

In the fiscal year 2024–2025, Qatar Airways reported a record net profit of $2.15 billion, a 28% increase from the previous year. This performance stands out in an industry where the average net profit margin is just 3.7%, according to IATA. The airline also saw revenue grow to $23.4 billion and transported 43.1 million passengers, maintaining an 85% load factor.

Its cargo division played a pivotal role, with a 17% increase in revenue year-over-year. This profitability has allowed the airline to reinvest in its fleet and services, operating a total of over 230 aircraft as of 2024, including long-haul Airbus A350s and Boeing 787-9s, as well as eight Airbus A380s for premium routes.

Network expansion continues aggressively, with new routes to cities like Toronto, Hamburg, Lisbon, and Osaka. The hub at Hamad International Airport handled 52.7 million passengers in 2024, with 16% growth in point-to-point traffic, showcasing Doha’s growing importance as both a destination and a transit hub.

The Skytrax Awards: A Global Benchmark

Understanding the Significance of Skytrax

Skytrax World Airline Awards are widely regarded as the “Oscars of aviation.” Based on surveys from over 100 nationalities and covering more than 800 service touchpoints, the awards provide a comprehensive assessment of airline quality. Importantly, Skytrax operates independently, with no entry fees or sponsorships from airlines, ensuring the integrity of its results.

Qatar Airways’ consistent performance in these awards is noteworthy. Since first receiving Skytrax’s 5-star rating in 2004, the airline has maintained this status and built a reputation for excellence. Winning the World’s Best Airline title nine times, including in 2025, is an unmatched feat in the industry.

This year’s awards were based on surveys conducted between September 2024 and May 2025. Qatar Airways outperformed competitors like Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific, which ranked second and third respectively. These accolades validate the airline’s comprehensive service philosophy and customer-centric approach.

Recognition Across the Travel Journey

Qatar Airways’ success at the 2025 Skytrax Awards extended beyond the top airline title. Its Qsuite business class was again recognized as the ‘World’s Best Business Class’, praised for its privacy, comfort, and flexibility. Introduced in 2017, the Qsuite features sliding doors, lie-flat beds, and customizable seating arrangements, redefining the business class experience.

The Al Mourjan Garden Lounge at Hamad International Airport won ‘World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge’. Spanning 10,000 square meters, the lounge includes vertical gardens, a reflecting pool, spa facilities, and à la carte dining. This lounge exemplifies the airline’s emphasis on ground experience as a critical part of the journey.

Skytrax CEO Edward Plaisted noted, “It is a fabulous achievement for Qatar Airways to win the World’s Best Airline title for 2025, the ninth time they have triumphed in the awards history.” These recognitions underscore the airline’s leadership in an increasingly competitive global market.

Innovations Shaping the Passenger Experience

Cabin and In-Flight Enhancements

Qatar Airways continues to innovate in cabin design and in-flight services. The introduction of SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet in 2024 marked a significant leap in digital connectivity, offering complimentary, high-bandwidth access to all passengers. This initiative enhances productivity and entertainment options on long-haul flights.

In-flight dining is another area of distinction. Menus are curated by award-winning chefs and feature regionally inspired dishes. The airline also emphasizes inclusivity, offering specialized services for families and passengers with special needs. Programs like the Oryx Kids Club enhance the travel experience for younger flyers.

These enhancements contribute to high customer loyalty and retention rates. Despite premium pricing, the airline continues to attract repeat passengers, validating its investment in quality and innovation.

Ground Services and Lounge Innovations

The passenger journey begins long before takeoff, and Qatar Airways’ ground services reflect this understanding. Hamad International Airport’s efficiency, average connection times of 45 minutes and advanced baggage systems, complements the in-air experience seamlessly.

The Al Mourjan Garden Lounge is a standout feature. Beyond its architectural beauty, the lounge offers business facilities, relaxation zones, and spa services. The March 2025 expansion of Concourses D and E increased capacity, allowing the airport to handle up to 65 million passengers annually.

This integrated approach to ground and air services has positioned Doha not only as a transit point but also as a destination. Point-to-point traffic surged 16% in 2024, surpassing even FIFA World Cup 2022 levels during peak periods.

Conclusion: A Benchmark for Global Aviation

Qatar Airways’ ninth Skytrax ‘World’s Best Airline’ title is more than a milestone, it is a validation of a long-term strategy centered on service excellence, operational efficiency, and strategic investment. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global leader, the airline has consistently prioritized passenger experience while navigating complex industry dynamics.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve post-pandemic, Qatar Airways is well-positioned to lead through innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation. Its story offers a blueprint for how airlines can thrive by aligning financial performance with customer-centric values and long-term vision.

FAQ

What is the Skytrax World Airline Award?
It is a global benchmark for airline quality, based on passenger surveys assessing over 800 service touchpoints.

How many times has Qatar Airways won ‘World’s Best Airline’?
Qatar Airways has won the title nine times, the most in Skytrax history.

What makes Qatar Airways’ Business Class stand out?
The Qsuite offers privacy doors, lie-flat beds, and customizable seating, setting a new standard in business travel.

Sources

• Qatar Airways Press Release
• Skytrax
• IATA