Travelling within Africa can present its own unique challenges, but exceptional airlines that prioritize comfort, efficiency, and outstanding service can make all the difference.
Recognizing the importance of outstanding air carriers, Skytrax, the renowned airline rating site, has been hosting the World Airline Awards since 1999. On June 20, 2023, the prestigious ceremony took place at the Air and Space Museum in Paris, unveiling this year’s top performers in the aviation industry, and the remarkable performance of African airlines on the global stage.
Ethiopian Airlines: Africa’s Pioneering Airline
Ethiopian Airlines Group, a prominent force in the global airline industry and Africa’s leading carrier, once again showcased its commitment to excellence by receiving multiple prestigious accolades at the 2023 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Ethiopian Airlines has consistently raised the bar in Africa’s aviation sector and has been recognized for its outstanding performance for several years running. The airline’s remarkable achievements include:
1. Best Airline in Africa 2023 (six years in a row)
2. Best Business Class Airline in Africa 2023 (five years in a row)
3. Best Economy Class Airline in Africa 2023 (five years in a row)
4. Best Business Class Onboard Catering in Africa 2023 (two years in a row)
5. Cleanest Airline in Africa 2023
These accolades solidify Ethiopian Airlines’ position as Africa’s leading airline, continually setting the standard for quality, service, and innovation. Despite a slight drop in its global ranking from 26th in 2022 to 35th in 2023, Ethiopian Airlines remains a beacon of excellence within the African aviation industry.
Royal Air Maroc: Unmatched Regional Airline
Royal Air Maroc (RAM), the flagship carrier of Morocco, has once again demonstrated its prowess by being named the “Best Regional Airline in Africa 2023” by Skytrax for an impressive ninth consecutive year. RAM’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and connectivity across the region has positioned it as the undisputed leader in the African regional airline market. In addition to this remarkable achievement, RAM also secured the second position among all African airlines, ranking just behind Ethiopian Airlines but ahead of South African Airways, Kenya Airways and Air Mauritius. The next five places are occupied by RwandAir, EgyptAir, FlySafair, Fastjet and Air Seychelles.
Ranking 53rd overall at the Skytrax World Airlines Awards, a significant jump from its 66th position in 2022, RAM continues to solidify its standing as a formidable player in the African aviation landscape.
The Skytrax 2023 Airline Awards brought together industry leaders, CEOs, presidents, and senior managers, who gathered at the Paris Air Show to celebrate the accomplishments of the world’s best airlines. Singapore Airlines claimed the coveted first place, surpassing the previous year’s winner, Qatar Airways, while Ethiopian Airlines continued its reign as Africa’s leading carrier, receiving five prestigious accolades.
The current top ten airlines according to Skytrax are as follows
1. Singapore Airlines
2. Qatar Airways
3. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
4. Emirates
5. Japan Airlines
6. Turkish Airlines
7. Air France
8. Cathay Pacific Airways
9. EVA Air
10. Korean Air
