AirlineRatings’ 2025 report provides a comprehensive overview of the safest airlines globally, with a particular focus on European carriers. The rankings, based on a multi-faceted assessment process, offer valuable insights for travelers concerned about air safety. Air New Zealand secured the top spot globally for the second consecutive year, followed by a strong showing from Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern airlines. However, European airlines also demonstrated a commendable safety record, occupying seven positions within the top 25. This presence highlights the commitment of European aviation authorities and airlines to maintaining high safety standards.
Within Europe, Turkish Airlines emerged as the safest carrier, ranking 13th globally and achieving a seven-star rating. Despite operating an extensive network of routes, Turkish Airlines has maintained a remarkable safety record, with no fatal accidents since 2009. This achievement is complemented by its accolades for catering and in-flight entertainment, solidifying its position as a leading airline. TAP Portugal followed closely behind as the second safest airline in Europe, boasting a flawless passenger safety record since 1977 and actively engaging in fear-of-flying programs. Several other European airlines, including SAS, British Airways, Iberia, Finnair, and the Lufthansa Group, also secured positions within the top 20, demonstrating the overall strength of European aviation safety. Iberia’s inclusion in the list for the first time marked a significant milestone, further highlighting its ongoing commitment to improving its operational standards.
AirlineRatings also evaluated low-cost carriers separately, and European budget airlines performed exceptionally well. Ryanair, the largest low-cost carrier in Europe, claimed the top spot among budget airlines globally, placing third overall. With a 40-year history free of fatal accidents, Ryanair’s prioritization of safety and security contributed significantly to its high ranking. EasyJet, another prominent European low-cost airline, followed closely behind in fourth place globally, showcasing its commitment to rigorous safety protocols and cabin crew training. Wizz Air, a relatively young airline with a modern fleet, secured the seventh position globally, further demonstrating the strong safety culture among European budget carriers. Other European low-cost airlines, including Norwegian, Vueling, Jet2, Eurowings, and airBaltic, also made it into the top 25, highlighting the overall focus on safety within the budget airline sector. The inclusion of both Jet2 and airBaltic for the first time reflects their dedication to enhancing safety measures and customer service.
The methodology employed by AirlineRatings to assess airline safety involves a comprehensive analysis of multiple data points and consultations with aviation experts and pilots. This rigorous process ensures a thorough evaluation of each airline’s safety performance. Key factors considered include the age of the aircraft fleet, the number of aircraft operated, the quality of pilot training programs, and the frequency of reported incidents. Furthermore, AirlineRatings considers an airline’s financial stability, recognizing that financial difficulties may negatively impact investment in safety-related areas such as training, maintenance, and upgrades.
The assessment also incorporates whether an airline’s country of origin has successfully completed the ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP), a crucial indicator of a nation’s commitment to implementing international safety standards. Additionally, the airline’s adherence to the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), a globally recognized standard for airline operational safety, is taken into account. By considering these diverse factors, AirlineRatings provides a comprehensive and nuanced evaluation of airline safety, going beyond simply counting accidents and incidents. This holistic approach offers travelers a more informed perspective on the safety performance of different airlines, enabling them to make more informed decisions when booking their flights.
The inclusion of factors such as airline profitability and compliance with international safety audits provides a more in-depth understanding of the underlying safety culture within an airline. This nuanced approach distinguishes AirlineRatings’ methodology from simpler rankings that solely focus on accident statistics. By examining a broader range of factors, the rankings offer a more comprehensive and insightful assessment of airline safety, empowering travelers to make well-informed choices.
The consistent emphasis on safety by both full-service and low-cost European airlines underscores the commitment of the European aviation industry to maintaining high standards. The inclusion of multiple European carriers in the top 25 safest airlines list reflects the rigorous safety regulations and oversight within the region. Moreover, the strong performance of European budget airlines demonstrates that affordability and safety can coexist, providing travelers with greater peace of mind when choosing budget-friendly travel options.
The AirlineRatings rankings serve as a valuable resource for travelers seeking information about airline safety. By considering a wide range of factors, the rankings provide a more nuanced understanding of the safety performance of different airlines. This information empowers travelers to make informed decisions based on their individual safety preferences and priorities, contributing to a safer and more informed travel experience.
The comprehensive methodology used by AirlineRatings, combined with the inclusion of both full-service and low-cost carriers, provides a detailed overview of the global aviation safety landscape. The rankings not only highlight the safest airlines but also offer insights into the factors that contribute to a strong safety culture within the industry. This information is beneficial for travelers, aviation professionals, and regulatory bodies alike, fostering greater transparency and accountability within the aviation sector.
