10 Safest Airlines to Fly Together in 2025

Flying together in 2025 should be as stress-free as possible—and safety is at the heart of that comfort. Fortunately, leading aviation analysts like AirlineRatings.com have released updated rankings for the world’s safest airlines, evaluating factors such as fleet age, major safety incidents, audits, and pilot training programs. These top 10 airlines aren’t just reliable—they’re renowned for their consistent track records, transparent operations, and investment in passenger well-being. Here are the carriers couples can trust when planning their next trip together.

Air New Zealand

Topping the 2025 list, Air New Zealand is widely regarded as the safest full-service airline in the world. It has consistently scored high for fleet modernization, maintenance practices, and pilot training programs. Operating in some of the most challenging weather conditions, particularly around Queenstown and Wellington, it continues to demonstrate expert handling and adaptability. While its last fatal crash was the Mount Erebus disaster in 1979, the airline has maintained an unblemished record ever since—more than four decades without a single passenger fatality in the jet age. That combination of lessons learned and rigorous, proactive safety culture cements its number-one spot.

Qantas

Qantas ranks just behind Air New Zealand, maintaining its long-standing reputation for excellence. Often referred to as the world’s safest airline historically, it has not recorded a fatal jet accident since 1951. Its modern fleet includes the latest Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s, with stringent maintenance protocols and simulator-based pilot training that go above industry standards. Even amid Australia’s vast remote regions and diverse weather conditions, Qantas maintains top-tier safety performance, making it a reliable choice for domestic and international travel.

Cathay Pacific / Qatar Airways / Emirates

Tied for third place, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, and Emirates each operate fleets that are among the youngest and most technologically advanced globally. These airlines boast near-perfect safety records, with zero fatal crashes in the last two decades. Their global reputations are built on high investment in safety tech, rigorous pilot evaluations, and strong internal compliance cultures. For travelers seeking seamless long-haul travel with impeccable track records, these three Middle Eastern and Asian giants continue to exceed expectations.

Virgin Australia

Virgin Australia ranks fourth in the 2025 safety rankings for full-service airlines. Its consistent upgrades to aircraft and adherence to international safety standards have earned it recognition globally. The airline has shown impressive recovery and focus since restructuring, emphasizing crew training and transparent reporting. It hasn’t faced any serious safety incidents in recent years and continues to expand with caution and responsibility. Passengers flying domestically or across the Asia-Pacific region can trust in Virgin’s reliable operations.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways claims the fifth spot in this year’s list. With a fleet made up primarily of modern Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s, Etihad operates with one of the youngest and most efficient aircraft lineups in the industry. Its proactive approach to aviation safety includes intense simulator drills for pilots and ongoing audits that ensure compliance with the highest international standards. The airline has never had a fatal accident and remains a top choice for those valuing both luxury and safety in equal measure.

ANA (All Nippon Airways)

ANA, Japan’s largest airline, is consistently ranked among the safest carriers worldwide, and 2025 is no exception. Known for its precise operations and meticulous attention to detail, ANA has not experienced any major safety incidents in recent decades. Its highly trained crew members, strict maintenance practices, and transparent reporting have contributed to its strong reputation. With hubs in Tokyo and Osaka, it serves both regional and international travelers with a level of care that aligns with Japan’s broader culture of excellence.

EVA Air

EVA Air, based in Taiwan, continues to impress aviation experts with its spotless safety record. It has not recorded a single hull‑loss accident or passenger fatality in its operational history. This achievement is credited to its conservative expansion strategy, high standards in aircraft maintenance, and deeply ingrained safety culture. Ranked seventh in 2025, EVA Air also benefits from consistent oversight by aviation authorities and an emphasis on pilot proficiency, making it a dependable airline for both leisure and business travel.

Korean Air

Korean Air lands at eighth place, having significantly improved its safety record over the past two decades. The airline faced scrutiny in the 1990s, but has since transformed into one of Asia’s safest carriers through comprehensive reforms, including hiring international safety consultants and upgrading pilot training. It now boasts a modern fleet, strong operational discipline, and improved reporting systems. Korean Air’s revival is proof of what rigorous commitment to aviation reform can achieve, making it a smart option for travelers today.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is the highest‑ranked U.S. carrier for safety in 2025, coming in ninth. Its robust training systems, careful aircraft maintenance, and transparent safety reporting have earned constant praise. In 2024, a door plug blew out at 16,000 feet during flight – far from a ground incident – and Alaska’s prompt, public follow‑up investigation and corrective measures only reinforced trust. Serving North America with reliability and care, Alaska continues to set a high benchmark in U.S. aviation safety.

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines rounds out the top 10 with strong scores across nearly all metrics. It has undergone major modernization in recent years, both in its aircraft fleet and in safety training infrastructure. Operating out of Istanbul’s vast new airport hub, the airline manages one of the world’s most extensive networks with few serious incidents. Its focus on rigorous pilot onboarding and performance audits has led to impressive gains. Turkish Airlines demonstrates that large‑scale expansion can still align with superior safety standards.