Etihad Airways named World’s Safest Airline in 2026

The year is off to a winning start with Etihad Airways crowned the world’s safest airline in 2026

Etihad Airways has been named the world’s safest airline for 2026, marking the first time a Gulf carrier has topped the global list. The Abu Dhabi-based airline leads a ranking of 25 full-service airlines compiled by AirlineRatings.com, ahead of international giants like Cathay Pacific, Qantas and Qatar Airways.

“This is the first year a Gulf carrier has taken the number one spot,” AirlineRatings CEO Sharon Petersen said. “Etihad achieved this through a combination of factors: a young fleet, advancements in cockpit safety, particularly around turbulence, a crash-free history, and the lowest incident rate per flight of any airline on the list. The airline also participated in our independent onboard safety audit and demonstrated excellent adherence to turbulence management in the cabin.”

Three UAE carriers made the top five, with Emirates and Qatar Airways joining Etihad as the region’s safest airlines. Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, Virgin Australia and Korean Air complete the top ten. STARLUX and Fiji Airways are newcomers to the list, while Singapore Airlines returned after improvements to safety procedures and training.

For travellers flying from Abu Dhabi, Etihad’s top spot sets a global benchmark, showing that passengers can reach destinations around the world with confidence.

Here’s the full list of Top 25 Full-Service Airlines for 2026: 

1. Etihad
2. Cathay Pacific
3. Qantas
4. Qatar Airways
5. Emirates
6. Air New Zealand
7. Singapore Airlines
8. EVA Air
9. Virgin Australia
10. Korean Air
11. STARLUX
12. Turkish Airlines
13. Virgin Atlantic
14. ANA
15. Alaska Airlines
16. TAP Air Portugal
17. SAS
18. British Airways
19. Vietnam Airlines
20. Iberia
21. Lufthansa
22. Air Canada
23. Delta
24. American Airlines
25. Fiji Airways

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