Which airline is the best? The safest airlines in Russia and the world. Aeroflot is the best airline in Russia

The holiday season is approaching, which means that the demand for air carrier services will increase significantly. Fear of flying causes many travelers to choose an airline primarily based on safety ratings.

Over the past 16 years, the auditing company Jacdec (Germany) has been ranking the safest airlines in the world. Since 2018, instead of the Safety Index, which was used for 15 years, the Safety Risk Index is used.

To determine the indicator, the following data is considered:

Information about incidents (accidents, disasters) over the past 30 years, taking into account the number of passengers transported and the total flight distance. The presence of incidents that did not result in an accident during the same period of time. Number of lost aircraft that cannot be recovered.
Various airline performance indicators, including aircraft age, safety inspections by international organizations (IOSA, IKAO).
Additional factors (state of airport infrastructure, weather conditions).

Emirates;
Norwegian;
Virgin Atlantic;
EasyJet;
Finnair;
Eithad Airways;
Spirit Airlines;
Jetstar Airways;
Air Arabia.

The Russian company Aeroflot ranks 73 out of 100 on this list.

Swiss agency specialists air transport(ATRA) believe that the degree of training of pilots and controllers should be considered as one of the main criteria (there are 15 in total) when compiling a safety rating. According to 2014 data, among the leaders are: airlines Air China, Delta Air Line, Air France KLM Group, US Airways Group.

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has developed its own system for assessing safety and reliability - the SAFA coefficient. To determine it, planes landing in the EU are checked at 54 points. If a certain value of the coefficient is exceeded, airlines are placed under special control of the European Commission. Research data is not publicly available.

How to choose an airline for safety

If you are puzzled by choosing an air carrier for the first time, information about their types and varieties of flights will not be superfluous.

Types of airlines

Long-haul. They operate flights lasting 6 hours or more.
Medium-haul. Their route network is dominated by flights taking less than 6 hours.
Semi-discounters. They attract passengers with tickets at a lower price than those offered by medium-haul companies. However, in-flight meals are offered for an additional fee, and there are restrictions on the amount of luggage.
Low-cost airline. Offered low prices for tickets excluding additional services. Thus, the cost of luggage, for example, may be equal to the amount paid for the ticket. The carrier has the right to cancel any flight. When choosing a discount company, you need to weigh all the pros and cons so that the benefit from the low price of the flight is not offset by the lack of services that are important to you.

Types of flights

One way (one or more flights);
Both ways. The journey begins and ends at the same point and takes place along the same route on aircraft of the same company.
Round. In the opposite direction they fly by a different route or on a plane of another carrier.

Passenger service classes

First;
Business Class;
Economy class.

They differ from each other in comfort seats, the size of baggage carried without payment, the quality of the menu, the availability of additional services.

Both “classic” and low-cost air carriers have their leaders, who are very popular among passengers, known for their reliability and level of service, and top the top lines of various ratings. If we talk about world air carriers, then these are, for example, Lufthansa, Emirates, Air France - KLM, AirNew Zealand, VirginAtlantic. When planning budget flights, you should pay attention to the airlines AirAsia, Ryanair, EasyJet, Germanwings, Red Wings, Pobeda.

It would be useful to familiarize yourself with the global airline safety rating, as well as domestic Russian reviews and studies.

An important criterion for a carrier’s safety is the age of the aircraft; the younger it is, the better (although with proper maintenance aircraft can serve for many years; according to statistics, accidents occur more often with older models). For those knowledgeable about the topic, additional food for thought can be gained by knowing the type of aircraft. For example, the Boeing 767 is designed to carry up to 240 passengers, which can be significant if you don't like crowded company.

Rating of the safest airlines in Russia and the world

Note: in paragraph " average price» provides an example of the cost of a flight to one of the popular destinations.

Russian Airlines

In our country, air transportation services in Russia and around the world are provided by more than 70 companies, both private and public.

Ural Airlines

Headquarters: Yekaterinburg.

The company's aircraft fleet includes 44 aircraft of various capacities, the average age of which is 12 years. The air carrier operates intercity and international flights to 183 destinations. Since the start of operations, there have been three incidents that did not result in loss of life due to the experience of the pilots. The company has an IOSA certificate confirming compliance with international security standards.

Advantages:

Electronic registration;
Eat bonus program"Wings";
A ship fleet renewal program is underway;
System of special offers;
Aircraft maintenance according to a strict schedule;
Regular courses to improve pilot qualifications.

Flaws:

Flight delays and cancellations;
There are user complaints about the incorrect operation of the online ticket purchasing service;
Some passengers find the food portions small.

Average price: flight Moscow-Bangkok (Thailand): 22,030 rubles.

Aeroflot - Russian Airlines

Headquarters: Moscow.

The company was founded in 1923. The fleet consists of 232 aircraft (average age is 4 years). Aviation consulting company Skytrax awarded Aeroflot 4 stars for the level of service (2016). Since the carrier's operation, only 4 accidents have occurred. The route network includes destinations in Russia, the CIS and different parts light (including those popular among our compatriots Thailand, China, Turkey, Czech Republic, Spain).

Advantages:

Aeroflot Bonus incentive program;
Good user reviews about the professionalism of the crew and the quality of service;
One of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world;
Special services for persons with disabilities;
It is possible to pre-order special meals.

Flaws:

There are cases of lost luggage;
Cases of flight cancellations without prior notification of passengers;
Complaints about the quality of service at the airport, the difficulty of resolving controversial issues;
Long response time to complaints.

Average price: Flight Moscow-Bangkok (Thailand) – 14,058 rubles.

Headquarters: Novosibirsk region, Ob.

Founded in 1992 on the basis of the Tolmachevsky united air squad. The fleet includes 80 aircraft, the average age of which is 8 years. During the company's activities, three high-profile plane crashes occurred. Operates domestic and international flights to more than 130 destinations (CIS countries, Europe, the Middle East and Asia). After passing the appropriate procedures to comply with security standards, the company is included in the list of IOSA operators.

Advantages:

There are many good reviews about the professionalism of the pilots;
Online services;
Frequent flyer rewards program;
Current member of IATA (International Air Transport Association);
Wide network of flights throughout Russia.

Flaws:

There are negative reviews about the quality of service on board.

Average price: flight Moscow-Bangkok (Thailand) – 14,083 rubles.

Headquarters: Tyumen.

The company dates back to 1967. It carries out not only passenger but also cargo transportation, including helicopter transportation. Provides air transportation in Russia and abroad. The air fleet includes 65 aircraft, with an average age of 15.4 years. The number of accidents during the operation of the air carrier is 8, with 80 deaths.

Advantages:

Positive feedback about the professionalism of pilots;
Friendly service;
Cheap tickets;
Utair Status loyalty program.

Flaws:

There are negative reviews about the service at the check-in;
There are complaints about the work of the call center;

Average price: Moscow-Berlin: 6,308 rubles. (standard-economy).

Foreign airlines

Headquarters: Dubai.

One of the largest airlines in the world. It began transporting people by air in 1985. The fleet includes 261 aircraft. On the Russian route it operates flights to Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Advantages:

High level of service;
New aircraft;
Polite staff;
Tasty food;
Ice entertainment system;
Convenient to fly to Thailand.

Flaws:

There are complaints from users about lost luggage.

Average price: flight Moscow-Barcelona – 79,340 rubles. (with a transfer in Dubai).

Norwegian Air Shuttle

Headquarters: Forneby (Oslo).

Low cost airline. The air fleet consists of 117 aircraft. In Russia it operates flights to St. Petersburg. In total, the route list includes 120 destinations around the world, connecting Europe with the countries of the Middle East and North Africa.

Advantages:

New aircraft;
Low prices;
It is profitable to fly to Europe;
Good level of service.

Flaws:

Not found yet.

Average price: flight Riga-Barcelona – $258.20.

Virgin Atlantic Airways

The company specializes in long- and medium-distance flights to 31 destinations (Africa, North America, Middle East, Asia, countries Caribbean, Australia). Air Park equipped with 37 aircraft.

Advantages:

High level of service;
Good food;
Polite staff.

Flaws:

Economy class has small seats, according to some passengers.

Average price: Flight Dubai-London – 42,330 rubles. (Economy class).

Headquarters: Amsterdam.

This Dutch airline was founded back in 1919. Currently it is part of the Air-France-KLM holding. Performs both internal and international flights, including flights to Moscow and St. Petersburg. The company's aircraft fleet numbers 117 units. The route network includes about 150 destinations.

Advantages:

Good level of service;
Polite staff;
Member of the Sky Team aviation alliance.

Flaws:

There are cases of lost luggage.

Average price: Moscow-Madrid flight (with a transfer in Amsterdam) – 17,402 rubles.

Easy Jet Airline Company Limited

Headquarters: Luton.

One of the largest low cost airlines Europe (low-cost airlines). Founded in 1995. The air fleet includes 280 aircraft. IN route network The company includes more than 600 flights.

Advantages:

Inexpensive tickets can be purchased;
New aircraft;
Lots of flights in Europe.

Flaws:

There are cases of damage to luggage;
Meals on the way for a fee;
Doesn't fly to Russia.

Average price: Flight Amsterdam - Lisbon - 77.23 euros.

Headquarters: Vantaa (Finland).

This Finnish airline has been operating by air since 1923. Since 1963, there have been no recorded accidents involving human casualties and not a single aircraft lost. The company operates domestic and international flights, including to Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Samara). The air fleet has 71 aircraft.

Advantages:

High level of safety and reliability;
Convenient flight schedule;
Favorable prices for pre-purchased tickets;
Polite flight attendants;
When transporting an animal, you can take it into the cabin.

Flaws:

There are no free meals on short flights.

Average price: Flight St. Petersburg-Barcelona – 26,414 rubles.

The plane is considered the most in a safe way transport. Not all passengers suffer from aerophobia, but probably everyone experiences varying degrees of anxiety when flying. To reduce the level of concern, it is useful to familiarize yourself with the ratings of reliable airlines, and, if possible, choose a carrier with a name and history that invests money in updating the air fleet and cares about the comfort and safety of passengers.

Choosing an airline is an important and responsible matter - because it determines how safe and comfortable the upcoming flight will be. This article will help you decide on the choice of air carrier.

top 10

The national airline of Qatar has been confidently holding its position for several years now. In addition to the absolute leadership in the world - it is also 1st place in the Middle East region - as well as the best first class lounges increased comfort, the best business class. The company serves 150 destinations all over the world.

This airline is recognized as the best in Asia. Travelers highly appreciated the first-class service, comfort, and safety.

The price level of this Japanese airline is at the level of European ones, and the service and flights are of a higher quality. Among the advantages, reviews often mention punctuality and extremely rare flight delays.

Every day it makes routes on 6 continents, to 62 countries, to 101 destinations. The aircraft fleet is constantly updated. The largest and fastest growing airline in the UAE.

Hong Kong. In the rating, despite reviews of flight delays. Perhaps thanks to the pilots who are professionals in their field - soft, confident, almost imperceptible landing, smooth flight - as well as attentive to passengers and smiling flight attendants.

The specialty of the Taiwanese air carrier is a huge selection of themed products that can be purchased directly on board.

This is not the first year that the German company has been on the list of the best. A flexible bonus accumulation system, punctuality, comfortable spacious cabins, and polite service are the main advantages of this air carrier.

UAE. The airline set out to pleasantly surprise its passengers with oriental hospitality - and they are doing a good job of it.

These Chinese airlines are characterized by rapid growth, high rates of development and progress.

Award for the best onboard staff.

If you choose among Russian companies, then give preference to Aeroflot. Although our company is not included in the top ten, it occupies a good position in the official ranking.

Watch the video: 10 safest airlines in the world

Airlines of China (Top 5)

This is not the first year that the company has been a leader in its homeland, and recently took pride of place in the global top. It is the largest air carrier operating charter and business flights, cargo transportation, operating on all lines and distances. Many employees have VO. Managers of the organization see the main goal in creating the most pleasant conditions for each passenger. The company is actively growing and developing, becoming better every year.

Air China

A rapidly growing state-owned company.

China Southern Airlines

Leader in the number of transportations; largest airline group in China. Most flights within the country are carried out by aircraft of this particular company, connecting large and small cities, provinces and business centers.

China Eastern Airlines

Most routes are connected to Shanghai.

China Northern Airlines

One of the oldest companies with extensive experience.

HA airliners fly from China to Russia (to Moscow, St. Petersburg and Irkutsk).

Which airline is better to fly?

The most popular destinations.

To Turkey

Unanimously recognized leaders are companies with regular flights and Turkish Airlines.

Except them, good feedback have: , Onur Air, Russia.

In 2017, the domestic airline Pobeda began flying to Antalya. When ordering a ticket a couple of months before the flight, the price is 1000 rubles.

Prices for regular flights are higher than for charter flights- but regular ones are more reliable and proven.

To Thailand

According to Runet users, Better conditions y and Thai airlines.

Direct flights from Russia are operated by Thai Airlines, Aeroflot,. The rest fly with transfers.

Air Asia- a fairly well-known low-cost regional carrier, this is a whole group different airlines. It is popular, has good reviews - but there is one “but”: flights are often postponed and cancelled, everything must be approved in advance.

Bangkok Air- for those who value luxury and expect the highest level of comfort. Expectations are fully met.

also commit connecting flights to Bangkok.

For those who live near the state. border, it is more convenient to get to Thailand by Chinese, European or Kazakh airlines.

The best in Kazakhstan - Air Astana. Among the hundred best companies in the world, quite a few rave reviews, one of the top in the CIS.

To Greece

Excellent reviews from the company Aegean Airlines. Especially suitable for those traveling with children. Helpful staff and spacious, clean interior. Simple and straightforward ordering of tickets on the website, regular flights to Athens and Thessaloniki.

There are also regular flights to Crete, Rhodes and Thessaloniki. Aeroflot- but only during the season - the rest of the time there are direct flights to Athens.

Astra- the most economical option, but much less comfortable. The planes are cramped, which is very inconvenient for passengers with small children, as well as tall and overweight people. Positive ratings also from.

Most charter flights are operated by Greek airlines, many of which have few planes on staff, and if one plane breaks down the flight can be cancelled. This happens quite often, and it must be kept in mind.

To Malaysia

Unfortunately, it is impossible to get to Malaysia directly from Russia. You will have to resort to the services of European, Asian and Middle Eastern airlines. These are the Qatari, Arabic, Kazakhstani, and Singaporean airlines indicated above.

In addition to already well-known airlines, we can name:

Australian company Jetstar;
Silk Air, known in the Southeast region;
Batavia Air, specializing in flights within the region;
Filipino Gebu Pacific Air And Zest Air;
Malaysian airlines Firefly And Malindo Air.

Flights to Malaysia are operated by many companies from the “black list”, whose planes have crashed more than once. In addition to those already mentioned in the list of the worst, these are Orient Thai And One-Tho-Go.

Turkish airlines (Top 5)

Pegasus

It is very popular all over the world. It is developing at a fast pace. A definite plus - favorable prices. He is punctual. Routes to 97 destinations. Young air fleet,

Turkish Airlines

The largest air carrier in the world and in Europe (3rd place), very well known and long loved in Russia. It flies to 200 destinations on 6 continents and has a huge fleet. There are practically no outdated aircraft models. This is a permanent member of the top ratings that has stood the test of time.

Onur Air

A young, but already proven airline on the positive side. Operates regular and charter flights. The company employs highly qualified employees who provide security and service at a decent level. In addition, ticket prices are significantly lower than other companies operating at the same level.

SunExpress

Good a budget option, flying along the most popular tourist routes.

Atlas Global

Quite a large air carrier. Operates flights throughout Russia, Europe and the CIS.

Best European Airline

Voted the best European airline, according to travelers.

Our domestic company was awarded in 4 categories - for the best business class, premium economy class, first place in Russia and in Europe. Passengers from different countries give a lot of praise about Aeroflot. In China, the company is recognized as the most beloved foreign company; the British agency Skytrax awarded the company 4 stars; Aeroflot was given five stars by the US passenger association APEX.

Aeroflot confidently takes 1st position in categories such as ticket price, check-in, comfort and service.

Worst Airlines (Top 5)

They were assessed based on the criteria of flight comfort, cabin cleanliness, and staff competence.

Turkmenistan Airlines

Sudan Airways

Only works in Africa and the Middle East region. Received the lowest marks on all points, with the exception of seat comfort. Therefore in 2nd place.

Ukraine International Airlines

Despite good reviews on thematic forums, it takes 3rd place due to low scores in other evaluation categories.

Uzbekistan Airways

Repeated accidents with casualties and a poorly organized registration process.

Air Koryo

The only North Korean airlines. Travelers do not like the musical accompaniment in the form of marches and the quality of food.

Worst airlines for safety

Here is a list of those whose planes are in poor condition, often have accidents, pilots and staff were suspected of using drugs and alcohol, who do not comply with international safety requirements, or if aircraft hijackings and other criminal acts have been committed.

Nepal Airlines

A huge number of disasters with a tragic end. Not professional pilots and outdated equipment.

Lion Air

Also a lot of collisions. The pilots and crew used drugs. It has a preference for accepting payment in cash; 2 days before departure it stops accepting plastic cards.

Batrik Air

Subsidiary of Lion Air. Flights over the EU are prohibited. There are known cases of technical problems during flights.

Citilink

Another Indonesian company. It operates mainly domestic routes; visiting the space above Europe is prohibited.

KalStar Avlation

The airliners of these airlines did not pass quality and safety controls.

The choice of airlines in the world is quite diverse, and everyone can choose the appropriate option to suit their taste and budget - and most importantly, choose the best one from those offered by various air transportation agencies on the RuNet.

Every day, millions of people fly around the world from one point of the world to another, so every passenger has the right to know the list of airlines that are distinguished by safe flights and good service. Every day, global consulting agencies rank the most popular, safe and unreliable airlines. When a rating of Russian airlines is created for flight reliability and safety, the determining factor is the incidents that occurred over the past year.

TOP 4 safest Russian airlines

More than 70 Russian airlines operate flights across Russia and from the country to other parts of the world every day. The rating of the safest airlines in Russia was topped by the four largest airlines, which can boast of a minimal number of accidents in their entire history.

The TOP 4 in terms of safety included:

Ural Airlines - since the creation of the large holding, only three minor incidents have occurred. Experienced pilots quickly responded to problems and made emergency landings, thanks to which all emergency incidents were avoided without casualties;
Aeroflot ranks second in the list of the safest airlines in Russia. Since the company was founded, only 4 accidents have occurred. The most notorious plane crash caused by a Russian pilot, which killed 75 passengers, occurred in 1994. Because of this, at one time the air carrier topped the rating of “The Most Dangerous Airlines in Russia.” After this, the company tightened control over flights;
“S7” - during the existence of the airline, which was previously called “Sibir”, three plane crashes occurred. Despite the high level of reliability of the company and the small number of incidents, they are remembered for the large number of victims;

UTAIR carries out not only passenger flights, but also cargo and helicopter flights. During all this time, Utair aircraft crashed 8 times, and the total number of victims was 80 people.

Interesting fact. Before TransAero airline went bankrupt, it was the one that topped the rating of the safest airlines in Russia. After the closure of the holding, the leading positions were taken by " Ural Airlines».

The most popular Russian airlines

There are many private and state-owned airlines in Russia. Large companies are very popular among passengers; they receive the highest ratings for service, food, comfort, and punctuality. The largest airlines in Russia have a large fleet of aircraft of varying capacity and class, so flights are almost always carried out on time. Rating statistics of the most popular Russian airlines are compiled based on surveys conducted among passengers. The rating of the best airlines in Russia 2017 includes the 12 most popular aviation companies according to the international organizations IOSA and ICAO.

The first place among the best airlines in terms of safety was taken by the I-Fly airline, which operates international charter flights together with the TEZ-TOUR travel agency. The company was founded in 2009. The main bet was made on popular tourist cities and directions, thanks to which flights on I-Fly airliners are quite in demand. All planes are economy class, so ticket prices are relatively low. The aircraft fleet is miniature and consists of only four Boeing 757-200 airliners. The airline is still developing, but this did not prevent it from entering the list of the best airlines in Russia due to its high level of service;
The second place was taken by Yamal Airlines, it has existed since 1997 and is the largest company in the West Siberian region. Reliable airliners carry out air travel both within the Russian Federation and beyond its borders. All planes are quite new, the youngest of them is only 4 months old (SukhoiSuperjet 100). The airline's fleet consists of 36 aircraft;
The third place in the ranking was taken by the largest and reliable airline Aeroflot of Russia, founded in 1923. This company is engaged in passenger and cargo air transportation to the CIS countries, Middle and Far East, America, Europe, Asia. In addition to being one of the most reliable airlines, Aeroflot boasts four stars from the English consulting agency SKYTRAX and 37th place in the JACDEC ranking of the safest airlines in the world. The aircraft fleet has 190 aircraft, the average age of which is 4.3 years;

The reliable aircraft fleet of S7 Airlines was in fourth position. Together with its subsidiaries, the S7 group is included in the rating of “Russia's Largest Airlines” and operates flights to 83 international and domestic directions. The company is the owner of three stars from the consulting agency SKYTRAX. As of May 2017, the airline's fleet consists of 65 aircraft;
Rossiya Airlines took fifth place in the ranking of the best and most popular airlines in Russia. As a subsidiary of Aeroflot, the company can confidently guarantee reliability and the highest service to its passengers, which is confirmed by two stars from the British consulting agency SKYTRAX. The airline's fleet consists of 60 aircraft, the average age of which is 13 years;
Ural Airlines is another large representative, with 41 aircraft of various classes and capacities. If you ask yourself which charter airlines are the best in Russia, then this company will easily be among the top five. During all this time, more than 5.5 million people were transported, because international and domestic air transportation is carried out to 183 destinations;
Nordwind took seventh place in the ranking of Russian airlines. She transports to popular tourist countries. Like other private airlines, Nordwind provides its ships for charter passenger flights to other companies. The founding date is in 2008, so there are not many aircraft in the aircraft fleet (only 16 aircraft);
Eighth place after a survey of passengers was taken by the Utair airline, which provides state, international, charter and scheduled passenger air transportation. The large holding company boasts a luxurious aircraft fleet, which can be the envy of other leading Russian airlines, consisting of 65 modern aircraft.

"Victory";
AzurAir;
VIM Airlines.

All of these companies are highly reliable, so every passenger can choose any air carrier from this list without worrying about the level of service, flight comfort, punctuality, etc.

Note! The least popular among Russians are: Russian airlines like IrAero, Gazprom Avia, Rusline, Aurora, Norvadia, SaratovAirlines, Pegas. The level of service and punctuality of these companies has not crossed the mark of 2.5-3 points out of 5, despite this, many passengers choose these airlines because of their affordable prices.

Rating of the world's best airlines

Every year, experts involved in compiling the world ranking “Airline Excellence Awards” evaluate more than 400 airlines from around the world. By various parameters the most reliable and safe economy and business class airlines are determined. Based on their assessments, experts create a list of the 10 most comfortable lines. The 2017 ranking of world airlines for safety and reliability included:

“AirNewZealand” - this is the airline that experts put in first place. The company earned such an honorary title thanks to innovative developments, contributing to increased comfort during the flight. On board the company's airliners there is everything necessary: rest rooms for passengers with children, varied diet and much more. Air New Zealand's fleet consists of 76 aircraft;

Qantas Airways is Australia's largest airline. The number of aircraft of this airline can be the envy of any Russian airline, because their number reaches 200 aircraft. In addition, all vessels boast first-class modern equipment with a high level of safety;
EtihadAirways, an airline originally from the UAE, took third place in the “Most best airlines world" thanks to the highest level of service. All 100 ships have increased safety, which has been noted more than once by passengers;
Cathay Pacific Airways is a Hong Kong airline that offers its customers excellent service and various loyalty programs with promotions, bonuses, and discounts. The fleet consists of 230 aircraft;
Lufthansa is a German air carrier that is one of the largest aviation companies in the world. The fleet roster includes more than 300 aircraft.

Also included in the top ten best global airlines are:

Singapore Airlines (Singapore);
Emirates (Dubai);
EVAAir (Taiwan);
VirginAtlantic (Atlantic Airline);
AllNipponAirways (Japan).

Interesting fact. The New Zealand company AirNewZealand has been leading this rating for the past three years, starting in 2014. It provides the best conditions for its passengers, and has also surpassed its competitors in terms of safe environmental impact.

Video

The ever-increasing level of aviation safety brings benefits to the aviation industry every year. Back in the period from 1982 to 1991, according to the report of the Interstate Aviation Committee (IAC), the flight safety index Soviet Union was 0.08. In the CIS countries it reached 0.1 and a little better in the USA – 0.02. The indicator was taken as the ratio of the number of accidents per 100 thousand flight hours.

Careful analysis of the causes of tragedies and flight safety management have brought air travel to a level of passenger confidence. Figures published by IATA in 2014 showed that there was 1 accident per 4.4 million flights.

According to World Fund, from January 2018 to December 2019, more than 20 air accidents were recorded, resulting in more than 700 deaths. It is indicated that only civil aircraft with a capacity of more than 14 seats.

To keep passengers up to date with air travel events, ICAO introduced its project - the Electronic Library of Final Reports. The portal was developed for the purpose of conducting safety lessons. Using it, you can search by incident dates and view the commission's report.

Over the entire history of air travel, only two airlines can boast of a zero percentage of accidents over the past 50 years. This is the Australian company Quantas - operating since 1922, and the Finnish Finnair - since 1923. According to JACDEC, a total of 22 global airlines are registered and have not experienced any serious disasters during their existence.

Every year, the German company JACDEC publishes its own airline safety rating. Its results come from a thorough analysis of accidents on board aircraft. The measure by which the rating is built is the flight safety index. New airlines are assigned a default value of 0. An index of 0.001 is considered a good number without fatalities.

It is important to note that the JACDEC accident database is limited to 30 years. Incidents that occurred during exercises, cargo transportation, or testing are not taken into account. Only flights with passengers on board are taken into account. 60 people take part in the safety analysis largest companies peace.

So, we present the 20 airline leaders in flight safety for 2018-2019.

Place on the list	Airline	A country	Safety index
1	Cathay Pacific Airway	China, Hong Kong	0,006
2	Emirates	UAE	0,007
3	Eva Air	Taiwan	0,008
4	Qatar Airways	Qatar	0,009
5	Hainan Airlines	China	0,01
6	KLM	Netherlands	0,01
7	Air New Zealand	New Zealand	0,011
8	Etihad Airways	UAE	0,013
9	Japan Airlines	Japan	0,015
10	TAP Portugal	Portugal	0,015
11	Jetblue Airways	USA	0,016
12	Lufthansa	Germany	0,016
13	Qantas	Australia	0,016
14	Virgin Atlantic Airways	Great Britain	0,017
15	All Nippon Airways	Japan	0,018
16	Air Canada	Canada	0,018
17	Delta Air Lines	USA	0,018
18	British Airways	Great Britain	0,024
19	Sichuan Airlines	China	0,025
20	Air Berlin	Germany	0,025

In 2018, the Australian Qantas did not enter the top ten, and ended up in 13th position. And the Japanese company Japan Airlines improved its results from last year and rose from 44th place to 9th.

Russian airlines are again not included in the top 20 for safety. Aeroflot-Russian moved up only one position (35th place). And Transaero Airlines did not participate in the JACDEC analysis at all.

An expert view from Switzerland

According to experts from the Swiss agency ATRA, rely on historical summary aircraft accident rate is not entirely true. In fact, any air transport is subject to external factors and it happens that the chances of survival of passengers largely depend on the qualifications of the pilot. Therefore, one of the criteria for calculating the safety factor of the ATRA rating is the level of training of pilots and controllers.

After a lengthy analysis of air incidents and accidents, ATRA has identified 15 main flight safety criteria:

Financial position of the company;
Passenger seat occupancy rate;
Number of employees on board and pilots;
The total number of kilometers traveled by the aircraft;
Number of vessels in operation and out of production;
Average age of operational aircraft;
Constituent air fleet (Airbus or Boeing);
Number of aircraft at risk;
Number of accidents over the past 10 years.

Calculation data is based on information International Association air transport (IATA) and aerospace magazine Flight Global.

For its consideration, ATRA selected 94 of the largest airlines by financial income. Of these, the first in the rating and the most reliable were Asian Air China, China Southern Airlines Group, American - AMR Corporation, Delta Air Line, Southwest Airlines, United Continental Holdings, US Airways Group, European - Air France KLM Group and International Airlines Group (statistics 2014).

European SAFA program

In 2004, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) introduced its criterion for assessing reliability - the SAFA coefficient. Unlike replicated public ratings, on this moment SAFA is considered the most reliable indicator of reliability. It was recognized by all world aviation experts. SAFA is a kind of final assessment of the International Operational Safety Audit (IOSA)

It is worth noting that in order to obtain an IOSA certificate, a company must pass a test of more than 1000 points of flight safety requirements.

The essence of assigning a coefficient is a random check of foreign aircraft landing in the EU by inspectors of the European Commission. It is impossible to predict when the inspection will take place. The aircraft undergoes a thorough 54-point inspection for technical condition, age of the aircraft and documentation. The SAFA coefficient is derived from the ship's shortcomings.

Subsequently, if the inspected aircraft of one airline accumulate a certain number of penalty points, then the company itself is included in the EU blacklist. In this way, flight safety over EU territory is continuously managed and improved.

Unfortunately, SAFA experts keep their conclusions private. One thing is known: the higher the company’s coefficient, the lower its reliability. The critical threshold is considered to be a coefficient of 1.95. Airlines that have received such a mark enter the red zone and come under close and regular monitoring by the European Commission.

Russian companies that have been audited following EASA certification have provided their safety ratings.

Flight safety. Documentary

Aircraft from Ural Airlines, Siberia Airlines, and Aeroflot received values below 0.4.

0.4-0.5 – UTair, Globus;
0.5-0.8 – Yamal, Red Wings, Orenburg Airlines, Aeroflot-Nord, North Wind;
0.8 – 0.9 – “Donavia”, “GTC Russia”;
1.08 – “Transaero”;
1.25 – “Sky Express”.

The companies Vladivostok-Avia, Bashkortostan, and Dagestan Airlines have approached the threshold of the “red zone”.

TOP budget flight safety companies from the aviation portal Airline Ratings

The portal is assessed using a seven-star system. Each star is assigned for certain indicators, such as the number and nature of incidents, the quality of staff and service.

449 airlines take part in the rating. Once the stars are assigned, Airline Ratings ranks the best and worst carriers. The resulting list of the safest companies in the world is not much different from the opinion of the German JACDEC and other experts.

But the top budget companies (low-cost airlines) will definitely please future passengers. So, we present to you the winners of the nomination:

The top unsafe carriers in 2019 included companies from Indonesia, Nepal and Suriname. They received 1 or 0 stars:

Batik Air	Srivijaya Air
Bluewing Airlines	Trans Nusa
Citilink	Trigana Air Service
Kal-Star Aviation	Wings Air
Lion Air	Xpres Air

International airlines never tire of improving their service, trying to win first positions. The “best of the best” impress passengers with many things: chairs with massagers, menus from chefs, the ability to check the weather from robots, and even babysitting services for children. Qatar Airways is renowned for its excellent business class and first class lounge. Among European air carriers, Lufthansa stands out. And the main thing is that each airline has its own “face” and its own philosophy. In this review we have collected the top 10.

10. Garuda Indonesia

Garuda Indonesia, which has been operating since 1947, opens the ranking of the best airlines in the world. Unusual name associated with the mythical bird of the god Vishnu - Garuda (symbol of Indonesia). The airline carries passengers to 12 countries. Customers note the high level of cleanliness and friendly service. The headquarters of the Indonesian airline is located at the capital's Soekarno-Hatta Airport. There are private waiting rooms where you can have a snack and connect to the Internet.

Lufthansa is the national carrier of Germany and one of the largest and best airlines in the world. It has been operating since 1926 and owns the world's second largest aircraft fleet, consisting of 700 aircraft. The airline’s network of routes is also quite wide - 410 points to which flights are carried out (Europe, Asia, Africa, America).

Customers can use one of three classes: first, business and economy. There are a number of promotions and additional services. For corporate clients – “Star Alliance Company Plus”, for private passengers – “Star Alliance”. The merits of Lufthansa were noted in 1997 by inviting it to the prestigious airline alliance StarAlliance.

Qantas Airways is one of the best airlines in Australia, nicknamed the “Flying Kangaroo”. It is one of the oldest in the world (founded in the 20s), second only to KLM and Avianca. Qantas Airways' activities began with air transportation. Today the company is based in Sydney and is the second largest airline in Australia (ahead of KLM). The average age of aircraft is 10 years. The route goes to 140 cities. Qantas Airways is considered one of the safest airlines in the world. The aircraft are equipped with video and audio systems for customer entertainment. An interesting service for passengers is the opportunity to try a dish from the country they are traveling to.

EVA Air is a Taiwanese airline established in the 80s. Located at Tai'an Taoyuan Airport, it operates domestic and international flights. EVA Air's destinations include Asia, Europe, North Africa and Australia (about 70 destinations). It is the second largest airline in Taiwan.

EVA Air has implemented robotic customer service at Taoyuan and Songshan airports. Robot Robert, after scanning the ticket, can communicate with the client - provide information about the departure, weather, promotions and company bonuses. You can dance with the robot, take photos together, or play games. It is also interesting that on some planes, airline employees fly in liveries with images of cartoon characters. For example, Hello Kitty.

EVA Air aircraft offer 3 classes of service: economy, premium economy and business. It is worth noting flight safety - EVA Air aircraft were not involved in major aircraft accidents.

One of the most popular airlines in the world, Turkish Airlines, began operating in 1933 and is based in Istanbul. At first it was a national carrier, but today 49% of the shares belong to the state and 51% to private owners. There are two service options to choose from: economy and business. The geography of routes covers 220 foreign airports in Europe, America, Asia and Africa (80 countries in total). The company has the youngest fleet of aircraft - on average 3.5 years old. During the flight, passengers are offered snacks, Turkish meze and dessert. Turkish Airlines is focused on medium-haul flights.

5. Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways is in the middle of the world airline rankings. This is a national company of the UAE, operating since 2003. It was created by decree of the sheikh. The headquarters is located in Abu Dhabi. In just 5 years of existence, Etihad Airways has increased the number of passengers by 6 million. It is the fastest growing airline in the world, which was facilitated by the Skytrax award: in 2016, the air carrier was awarded for first class quality (including in-flight meals and chairs).

The name Etihad Airways means "union", implying the relationship between passengers and the airline. The Arab understanding of luxury is reflected in comfort during travel: in first class there is a two-meter chair-bed and a chef, in economy there is a touch screen and three dishes to choose from. During long trips, you are provided with an amenity kit (socks, toothpaste and brush, earplugs, sleep mask). Passengers with children can order babysitting services.

4. Cathay Pacific

Hong Kong airline flying to 51 countries (200 routes) in Asia, Africa, New Zealand and Australia. Cathay Pacific is one of six airlines that ranks highly in Skytrax rating(5 stars). The airline has been operating since 1946 - it was opened former pilots Air Force, American and Australian. Cathay Pacific was initially based in Shanghai, then moved to Hong Kong. The air fleet includes more than 90 aircraft (average age - 10 years). Entertainment for passengers includes cinema, music, magazines, and an airline boutique. On long flights, passengers are offered a night kit.

Singapore Airlines opens the top three airlines in the world. It has been operating since 1947 and provides flight services to 35 countries (more than 60 cities). Changi Airport (Singapore) is the base airport. If a passenger transits through it, he will be offered a free two-hour tour. Singapore Airlines is guided by the philosophy that passengers should have the most comfortable experience on board the aircraft. Even economy class passengers will appreciate the high level of comfort during the flight: plenty of legroom, multimedia, monitors. You can use the Internet or watch a movie. The airline has more than a hundred aircraft in its fleet, but not a single aircraft has been in operation for more than five years.

Qatar Airways is ranked 2nd in the list of the best airlines in the world. It is the national airline of Qatar and is headquartered in Doha. Flights are carried out to five continents - more than 130 destinations (all international). The average age of aircraft is 5 years. In 2017, Qatar Airways launched the world's longest flight, from Qatar to New Zealand.

According to the rating of the British resource Skytrax, Qatar Airways is a 5-star airline. Passengers are seated on wide seats with a massage function. Everyone has their own blanket, pillow and headphones. There is an entertainment center with the ability to watch movies, listen to music and use the Internet.

Qatar Airways customers note the variety of the menu: rice, stewed vegetables, salads, sandwiches. For transit passengers they offer to spend time not at the airport, but in a hotel - the airline helps to obtain a temporary visa and provides a transfer (the service may be paid or free).

Emirates Airline tops our top 10 “best airlines in the world” ranking. The company was opened in the 80s in Dubai to develop UAE tourism. The Emirates Airline fleet (250 aircraft) is one of the youngest in the world. The average age of transport is 5.6 years.

The airline positions itself as a global carrier, operating regular flights to all continents of the planet. From the Dubai base airport you can fly to 140 cities. Emirates Airline ranks first in the total number of international flights.

Emirates Airline also does not forget about the quality of service. Most aircraft are equipped entertainment centers: you can watch a movie, listen to music, play a game or follow interactive map flight. Passengers with children are also taken care of: babies can watch takeoff and landing through the eyes of a pilot thanks to the Airshow channel, and parents with babies are given an essential kit with hygiene products.