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Is New Zealand Air a good airline?

Air New Zealand has been ranked the best airline in the world by AirlineRatings.com, a website for airline safety and product reviews. The airline beat Qatar Airways, which held the title in 2021 and 2022, to secure the top spot.



Air New Zealand is consistently rated as one of the best airlines in the world, particularly noted for its innovative cabin designs and exceptional "Kiwi" hospitality. In 2025 and 2026, it has frequently been named the "World's Safest Airline" by AirlineRatings.com. The airline is famous for its "Skycouch" in Economy, which allows a row of three seats to be converted into a flat bed, and its upcoming "Skynest" bunk beds. However, in early 2026, the airline has faced some financial and operational headwinds, including its first loss in three years due to global supply chain issues and engine maintenance delays on its Boeing 787 and Airbus neo fleets. Despite these logistical challenges, passenger reviews remain overwhelmingly positive regarding the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the on-board food and wine. It remains a top-tier choice for trans-Pacific and domestic New Zealand travel, balancing high safety standards with a unique, premium-focused brand identity.

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Air New Zealand has been ranked the best airline in the world by AirlineRatings.com, a website for airline safety and product reviews. The airline beat Qatar Airways, which held the title in 2021 and 2022, to secure the top spot.

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Despite so many unhappy travellers of late due to cancelled flights, baggage woes and expensive airfares, the reality is Air New Zealand offers a more premium product out of the two.

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Airline ranking company Skytrax released its 2023 list of the 20 best airlines in the world. Singapore Airlines came in first, taking the win over 2022's winner Qatar Airways.

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Top 10 safest airlines to fly on right now
  • Delta Airlines. Major crashes in the last 50 years: 7. ...
  • American Airlines. Major crashes in the last 50 years: 14. ...
  • International: Qatar Airways. Major crashes in the last 50 years: 0. ...
  • International: Etihad Airways. Major crashes since operations started: 0.


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Meanwhile, Air New Zealand and Qantas also were named in the top five airlines with high cancellation rates, at 3.7 and 3.3 per cent respectively. Notably, of all 19 studied carriers, Virgin boasts the smallest international network, possibly skewing the data.

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It all comes down to your personal preferences and travel goals. If you're looking for added comfort and amenities, premium economy is the way to go. However, if you're more focused on saving money, economy class may be a better fit.

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Worst airlines to avoid in 2023
  1. Lion Air. Despite Indonesia AirAsia facing intense scrutiny following the crash of flight QZ8501 in late 2014, it does not rank among Indonesia's most hazardous airlines. ...
  2. Nepal Airlines. ...
  3. Scat Airlines.


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Around two to four weeks before your departure is the sweet spot for the best deals on international tickets. Purchasing them on a Sunday could also cut the cost of your travel while Fridays and Saturdays are some of the most expensive days to book.

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