While Finnair is consistently ranked as one of the safest airlines in the world, it is not currently the single "safest." In the 2026 safety rankings from AirlineRatings, Etihad Airways was named the world's safest airline, followed by Cathay Pacific and Qantas. Finnair typically places within the Top 20 globally and maintains a perfect "seven-star" safety rating. The airline has not had a fatal accident since the early 1960s, giving it one of the longest "crash-free" records in aviation history. Finnair's reputation is built on its rigorous pilot training standards, high-quality fleet maintenance, and early adoption of safety technologies. So, while it may not hold the #1 spot this year, it remains a premier choice for safety-conscious travelers, especially those flying on the polar routes between Europe and Asia where the airline's expertise in cold-weather operations is a significant safety asset.