These are the world's best airlines

Air New Zealand has been crowned the world’s best airline for the fifth consecutive year.

The carrier soared to the top of the rankings thanks to its “continued record-breaking financial performance, in-flight innovations, environmental leadership, young fleet, and motivation of its staff”.

It headed rivals Qantas Airways, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Australia and Virgin Atlantic to claim top spot.

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Perhaps unsurprisingly given its recent flight cancellation woes, Ryanair does not feature.

And neither does British Airways, despite its once much quoted claim to be “the world’s favourite airline”.

To make the list, compiled by website AirlineRatings.com, carriers must must achieve a seven-star safety rating and demonstrate leadership in innovation for passenger comfort.

The judging team said: “We are looking for leadership and airlines that innovate to make a real difference to the passenger experience, particularly in economy class.

“In our evaluation, we will also consider the audited website feedback from passengers on our website and other reputable sites such as CNTraveller.com.”

Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin brand secured two spots in the top 10. Judges said Virgin Australia’s new business class was “turning heads”, while in Europe, Virgin Atlantic’s in-flight product and service “is a clear leader”.

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But it was Air New Zealand that clearly impressed travellers, industry insiders and the judges the most.

The panel said: “Air New Zealand came out number one – or equal first – in all of our audit criteria, which is an exceptional performance.”

Singapore Airlines came top in the best first class experience category and also best cabin crew. Virgin Australia offered the outstanding business class service.

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And, for those flying economy, Air New Zealand won for its premium economy while Korean Air was the best economy airline overall.

Norwegian – locked in a struggle with Ryanair over poaching its pilots – won the award for Europe’s best low-cost airline.