AirAsia Wins 17th Skytrax World's Best Low-Cost Airline Title
AirAsia secured its 17th consecutive "World's Best Low-Cost Airline" award at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards, coinciding with the airline's 25th anniversary of operations.
AirAsia Claims 17th Consecutive Skytrax Title
AirAsia has once again been recognised as the World's Best Low-Cost Airline, securing the title for the 17th consecutive year at the 2026 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The Malaysian carrier's achievement was made public on Friday, 18 September 2026.
This sustained recognition from Skytrax highlights AirAsia's enduring presence and influence within the global budget travel sector, maintaining its top position for nearly two decades.
The Skytrax World Airline Awards are considered a significant global benchmark for excellence and passenger satisfaction in the aviation industry, based on results from an independent annual World Airline Survey that gathers evaluations directly from passengers across numerous countries.
Passenger Trust and 25-Year Milestone
AirAsia Co-Founder Datuk Kamarudin Meranun emphasised the special significance of this year's award, noting its timing with the airline's 25th anniversary of providing broad and affordable air travel access. He stated that the accolade from Skytrax reflects the consistent trust passengers have placed in AirAsia, a sentiment the airline does not take for granted.
AirAsia Group CEO Bo Lingam reiterated this, highlighting that the award confirms passenger confidence despite the current uncertainties and geopolitical shifts impacting the aviation industry.
Mr Lingam also affirmed AirAsia's ongoing commitment to connecting more people and destinations across ASEAN and other regions, while continuously working to earn passenger trust on every flight.
Implications for Asian Low-Cost Travel
Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, commented that AirAsia's 17th win demonstrates the airline's consistent delivery of quality, affordable air travel. He added that the award showcases AirAsia's strong performance in the highly competitive and dynamic low-cost airline market.
For travellers across Asia, this consistent top ranking reinforces AirAsia's brand as a reliable and cost-effective choice, potentially influencing travel planning and booking behaviour.
The airline's stated expansion plans suggest continued route development and competitive fare structures across the region, which will be closely watched by other low-cost carriers vying for market share and passenger loyalty in Asia's rapidly growing travel sector.
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