Muscat: The AirlineRatings.com 2025 report, released just days after the devastating crash of Air India flight AI171 in Ahmedabad, has named Air New Zealand as the world’s safest full-service airline, while HK Express leads the list of safest low-cost carriers.

Notably, Gulf airlines have made a strong showing in both categories. Qatar Airways and Emirates share the third position among full-service airlines, while Etihad Airways stands close behind at No. 5. In the low-cost category, flydubai and Air Arabia have been listed among the safest, showcasing the UAE’s consistent focus on operational safety and pilot training.

The tragic crash of Air India’s Boeing Dreamliner 787—a model with no previous crash record—has shaken global aviation. The flight, en route to London Gatwick, crashed shortly after take-off, killing 241 of the 242 on board and causing further casualties on the ground after it struck a residential building. One passenger survived against all odds.

The airline safety rankings were based on multiple factors including the number of serious incidents in the past two years, fleet age and size, fatality records, profitability, IOSA certification, ICAO audit results, and expert consultation with aviation professionals.