Air New Zealand named 2015 airline of the year

Air New Zealand has been named the Airline of the Year 2015 in the Airline Excellence Awards for the second year running.

In the awards determined by AirlineRatings.com, Air New Zealand was chosen for its in-flight innovations, financial performance, operational safety and staff motivation.

“Quite simply Air New Zealand is an airline of first choice. And given the airline’s location and the country’s size, its performance is even more remarkable,” said AirlineRatings.com editor Geoffrey Thomas.

“The editors of AirlineRatings.com also noted that the airline’s focus on delivering value to passengers has resulted in higher yields and better returns for staff and shareholders. Air New Zealand is unquestionably AirlineRatings.com Airline of the Year for 2015,” said Mr Thomas.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon says the airline is thrilled to receive the prestigious accolade two years in a row.

Related: Air NZ unveils 'epic' new safety video

Eithad Airways was praised as the winner of Best First Class, and Cathay Pacific was named Best Business Class. While Thai Airways picked up Best Economy Class.

Qantas was awarded Best Lounges for the standout experience before taking off.

Here are the Top Ten airlines for 2015:
1. Air New Zealand
2. Etihad Airways
3. Cathay Pacific Airways
4. Qantas
5. Emirates
6. Singapore Airlines
7. EVA Air
8. Lufthansa
9. All Nippon Airways
10. British Airways