The UK-based consultancy has once again named Emirates as the World’s Best Airline, with Qatar Airways taking the No 2 spot.

Four major East Asian carriers – Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, ANA (All Nippon Airways) and EVA Air – were also in the top 10.

Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways grabbed the Most Improved Carrier and Best Regional Airline categories respectively.

This is the fourth time Emirates has taken the top spot in the Skytrax ranking. The airline also retained its stranglehold on the World’s Best Inflight Entertainment category.

In addition to these top awards, it improved its position across a range of categories, performing well in the First, Business and Economy Class sections and achieving a top-10 finish (10th) in the World’s Best Cabin Staff category.

“Emirates has always put our customers at the heart of what we do, and we work hard to deliver the very best experience possible to our customers at every touch point, every day, all around the world. We constantly invest in our product and services, both on the ground and in the air,” said Tim Clark, president of Emirates.

Qatar Airways was ranked No 2 in the world, and won other top honours as well – World’s Best Business Class, World’s Best Business Class Lounge, and Best Airline Staff in the Middle East.

Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said every individual at Qatar Airways was responsible for passengers’ experience, from on-board cabin crew to the chefs overseeing catering, to the technicians who ensure the cabin is in perfect working order.

He said the airline’s commitment to continued success was unwavering and a testament to the dedication of its global teams. The airline’s renowned service, modern aircraft and luxurious cabins, combined with an expanding global network, continue to set Qatar Airways apart from the competition, he said.

As for major East Asian carriers, Singapore Airlines stood out on Skytrax’ rankings, being named Best Airline in Asia and claiming the title for the Best Business Class Airline Seat. It also came third overall.

Commenting on the awards, the airline said the achievement was validation of the hard work and dedication of staff around the world who ensure that Singapore Airlines remains competitive on a global level.

Suparerk Soorangura, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), which specialises in the inbound market and works with many airlines, said the carriers in the Middle East had been focusing on customers’ needs and better services for years. They also had a strong commitment to using modern aircraft to enhance passengers’ travel experience. Meanwhile THAI, besides being named the World’s Most Improved Airline, was recognised for having the World’s Best Airline Lounge Spa Facility.

The national airline also placed in the top three in three other categories: Best Economy Class Onboard Catering, for the quality of meals, quality of food and beverage selection, and visual presentation; Best Airline Staff Service in Asia, for efficiency, friendliness, hospitality and overall consistency; and World’s Best Airport Services.

“We are on the right path – growing and expanding sustainably to serve every customer, whom we value greatly,” THAI president Charamporn Jotikasthira said. “I am indeed very proud of THAI to have achieved this recognition.”

THAI has made changes in product offerings and services on board and at the airports. Since the end of last year, route by route, THAI has been rolling out services for its Royal Silk Class passengers.

The airline has embarked on an operational makeover with the decommissioning of a number of older aircraft in order to offer newer products and a smooth experience on board. THAI says it is determined to be one of the top airlines in the world in terms of products, services, and customer experience.

A private Thai carrier, Bangkok Airways, was named the World’s Best Regional Airline, based on its commitment to strive for excellence.