Air travel has long been considered one of the safest modes of transportation, with rigorous safety standards and protocols in place. However, for some individuals, the fear of flying can still be a significant obstacle. To alleviate these concerns, it’s crucial to choose airlines with impeccable safety records.  

In 2023, several airlines around the world have emerged as the safest options for travelers. Let’s delve into the Top 20 safest airlines in the world, as ranked by Airline Rankings, and explore the criteria used to determine their safety.

What makes an airline safe? 

Determining the safety of an airline involves a complex analysis of multiple factors. According to Geoffrey Thomas the editor-in-chief for Airline Rankings, their editors employ a comprehensive methodology. They analyze: 

  • Crashes in the last 5 years: The number of crashes an airline has experienced over the past five years is a crucial indicator of its safety performance. Few or no crashes demonstrate a commitment to safety. 
  • Serious incidents within a two-year period: While crashes are the most severe safety events, serious incidents like engine failures, emergency landings, or near-miss situations also play a role in assessing an airline’s safety. 
  • Inspections conducted by aviation regulatory authorities: Regulatory agencies and industry associations conduct regular audits to assess an airline’s adherence to safety standards and procedures. 
  • Fleet age: Older aircraft may have more wear and tear, increasing the risk of mechanical failures. A young fleet is often seen as a safety advantage. 
  • Assessment of pilot training: Well-trained and experienced pilots are a cornerstone of flight safety. Airlines with rigorous pilot training programs score higher in safety assessments. 
  • COVID protocols: In the post-pandemic world, airlines’ response to health and safety measures is also a significant consideration. 

With these criteria in mind, let’s take a closer look at the Top 20 safest airlines in the world for 2023: 

  • Country: Australia 
  • Commenced operations: November 2, 1922 
  • Qantas achieved a remarkable safety milestone with its last fatal crash occurring back in 1951. Since that time, over 70 years have passed without any fatal accidents being recorded by the airline. 

  • Country: New Zealand 
  • Commenced operations: April 1, 1965 
  • Air New Zealand is renowned for its commitment to safety and excellent service, making it a top choice for travelers. 
Blue Planet Studio / Shutterstock
  • Country: United Arab Emirates 
  • Commenced operations: November 2003 
  • Etihad Airways maintains a strong safety track record, providing peace of mind to passengers. 
M101Studio / Shutterstock 
  • Commenced operations: January 20, 1994 
  • Qatar Airways is recognized for its modern fleet and adherence to safety standards. 
Bradley Caslin / Shutterstock 
  • Country: Singapore 
  • Commenced operations: October 1, 1972 
  • Singapore Airlines is known for its impeccable safety record and high-quality service. 
Sorbis / Shutterstock 
  • Country: Portugal 
  • Commenced operations: September 19, 1946 
  • TAP Air Portugal has been steadily climbing the safety rankings, thanks to its rigorous safety protocols. 
Markus Mainka / Shutterstock 
  • Country: United Arab Emirates 
  • Commenced operations: October 25, 1985 
  • Emirates, one of the world’s largest airlines, consistently prioritizes safety, making it a popular choice for travelers. 
Sorbis / Shutterstock 
  • Country: United States 
  • Commenced operations: June 6, 1944 
  • As one of the safest airlines in the US, Alaska Airlines has a strong safety culture. 
Markus Mainka / Shutterstock 
  • Commenced operations: July 1, 1991 
  • EVA Air or Evergreen Airways is known for its modern fleet and dedication to passenger safety. 
Simon Tang / Shutterstock
  • Country: Australia/United Kingdom 
  • Commenced operations: Virgin Australia August 29, 2011, and Atlantic June 22, 1984 
  • The Virgin Group airlines Virgin Australia and Virgin Atlantic place a strong emphasis on safety, offering reliable travel experiences. 
Seth Jaworski / Shutterstock 
  • Country: Hong Kong 
  • Commenced operations: September 24, 1946 
  • Cathay Pacific Airways maintains an excellent safety record, assuring travelers of their well-being. 
bluerprintt / Shutterstock 
  • Country: United States 
  • Commenced operations: October 6, 1929 
  • Hawaiian Airlines is a trusted choice for those traveling to and from Hawaii, known for its safety measures. 
Eliyahu Yosef Parypa / Shutterstock 

13. SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) 

  • Country: Sweden/Norway/Denmark 
  • Commenced operations: August 1, 1946 
  • SAS is recognized for its commitment to safety, serving travelers in Scandinavia and beyond. 
photosounds / Shutterstock 
  • Country: United States 
  • Commenced operations: March 28, 1931 
  • United Airlines is one of the largest carriers in the world, and its safety record reflects its dedication to passenger well-being. 
Karolis Kavolelis / Shutterstock 

15. Lufthansa Group airlines 

  • Country: Germany 
  • Commenced operations: April 1, 1955 
  • Lufthansa Group airlines, operating under one umbrella, prioritize safety and passenger satisfaction. 
Belish / Shutterstock 
  • Country: Finland 
  • Commenced operations: November 1, 1923 
  • Finnair is a reliable choice for European and international travel, with a strong safety record. 
Danil Tsoy / Shutterstock 
  • Country: United Kingdom 
  • Commenced operations: August 25, 1919 
  • British Airways has a long history of safety and provides a comfortable travel experience. 
Ceri Breeze / Shutterstock 
  • Country: The Netherlands 
  • Commenced operations: October 7, 1919 
  • KLM’s commitment to safety and service has earned it a place among the Top 20 safest airlines. 
Robert Buchel / Shutterstock 
  • Commenced operations: June 25, 1936 
  • As a major United States carrier, American Airlines emphasizes safety to ensure passenger confidence. 
Samuel Ponce / Shutterstock 
  • Country: United States 
  • Commenced operations: June 17, 1929 
  • Delta Air Lines rounds out the list, known for its focus on safety and customer service. 
Austin Deppe / Shutterstock 

When it comes to choosing the best airline for your travels, safety should always be a top priority. The Top 20 safest airlines in the world in 2023, as ranked by Airline Rankings, have demonstrated their commitment to passenger safety through their excellent safety records, rigorous training programs, and adherence to industry standards.  

Whether you’re embarking on a short domestic flight or a long-haul international journey, these airlines provide peace of mind, making your travel experience as safe and enjoyable as possible. So, if you fear flying, rest assured that these airlines have your safety at heart, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey rather than the fear of the flight. 

Top 20 safest airlines in the world for 2023 

Rank  Airline  Started Operations  Serious Incidents (past 2 years)  Crashes (past 5 years) 
Qantas  1922 
Air New Zealand  1965 
Etihad Airways  2003 
Qatar Airways  1994 
Singapore Airlines  1972 
TAP Air Portugal  1946 
Emirates  1985 
Alaska Airlines  1944 
EVA Air  1991 
10  Virgin Australia/Atlantic  1984 
11  Cathay Pacific Airways  1946 
12  Hawaiian Airlines  1929 
13  SAS (Scandinavian Airlines)  1946 
14  United Airlines  1931 
15  Lufthansa/Swiss Group  1955 
16  Finnair  1923 
17  British Airways  1919 
18  KLM  1919 
19  American Airlines  1936 
20  Delta Air Lines  1929 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *