AirlineRatings has unveiled its rankings for the safest airlines in the world for 2025, with several European carriers securing spots in the prestigious list. This comes at a time when aviation safety concerns are heightened due to recent incidents in the news.
For the second consecutive year, Air New Zealand has claimed the top spot as the world’s safest airline. The airline continues to lead, edging out its Australian counterpart, Qantas, which had previously shared the title in 2024 and 2022. The Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions dominate the first 11 spots in the rankings, but European airlines are well-represented, securing seven positions in the top 25.
Among the safest European airlines, Turkish Airlines emerged as the highest ranked, securing 13th place globally. The airline, known for its extensive network, has not experienced a fatal accident since 2009, despite operating to more destinations than any other carrier. Turkish Airlines was also recognized for its exceptional catering and inflight entertainment, earning a ‘World Class’ rating from the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) and the ‘Best Airline in Europe’ title from Skytrax.
In second place among European carriers, TAP Portugal was ranked 14th globally. TAP has maintained an impeccable safety record, having not lost a passenger since 1977. The airline also offers specialized courses to help passengers overcome fear of flying, further boosting its reputation for passenger care.
The list also highlights several other major European carriers, including SAS (16th), British Airways (17th), Iberia (18th), Finnair (19th), and Lufthansa Group, which includes SWISS (20th). Notably, Iberia has had a transformative year, earning accolades for on-time performance, outstanding staff, and catering services. This marks the first time Iberia has appeared in the top 25 safest airlines list.
Low-cost European airlines also made a strong showing in the rankings. Ryanair, with an impeccable safety record spanning 40 years, was recognized as the safest budget airline in Europe and claimed 3rd place globally. EasyJet followed closely behind in 4th place, maintaining a stellar safety record since its inception in 1995. Wizz Air, another low-cost carrier, ranked 7th globally and secured its position as the third safest low-cost airline in Europe.
Other European low-cost airlines featured in the top 25 include Norwegian (12th), Vueling (13th), Jet2 (14th), Eurowings (20th), and airBaltic (25th). Notably, both Jet2 and airBaltic made their debut in the top 25 this year, with airBaltic celebrating its achievement as a testament to its commitment to safety.
The rankings are based on a comprehensive assessment that includes factors such as the age of aircraft, pilot training, the airline’s safety record, and whether the airline has passed various global safety audits, including the ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit and the IATA Operational Safety Audit.
AirlineRatings hopes the rankings provide passengers with greater confidence when booking their flights, particularly in an era when aviation safety is of paramount concern.
