Air Mauritius has achieved a significant milestone in the Skytrax 2026 World Airline Awards, securing the 52nd position globally. This marks an improvement of 11 places from the previous year, when it was ranked 63rd. According to the airline, this is its best ranking since its first participation in the World Airline Awards. The 52nd position is confirmed in the official Skytrax 2026 rankings.
In addition to its global ranking, Air Mauritius has also been recognized as the second-best airline in Africa for its cabin crew. The airline trails behind EgyptAir and surpasses Ethiopian Airlines in this category, according to Skytrax's regional rankings. The World Airline Awards 2026 were announced on September 18 at a ceremony held at the Langham Hotel in London.
The Skytrax rankings are based on an international passenger satisfaction survey conducted between September 2025 and August 2026. Over 300 airlines were evaluated, with passengers rating various aspects of their experience at airports and on board. Skytrax finances the survey entirely and does not charge participating airlines any registration fees. The rankings reflect passenger satisfaction, rather than airline safety or financial performance.
Air Mauritius attributes its improved ranking to its "Building Remarkable Service Quality" strategy, which aims to enhance the passenger experience. The airline's managing director, André Viljoen, stated that customer and staff feedback was considered in this approach. This achievement is part of the airline's recovery plan, following a challenging period. The airline now aims to become one of the top 20 global airlines, although no specific timeline was provided.
Air Mauritius plans to implement improvements on board, at airports, and in its lounges and sales offices during 2026 and 2027. Separately, the airline holds a four-star certification from Skytrax, which it has maintained since 2014. This certification is distinct from the World Airline Awards and is based on a professional evaluation of the airline's products and services.
The top 10 airlines in the Skytrax 2026 rankings are led by Singapore Airlines, followed by Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific Airways. The top 10 list includes ANA All Nippon Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Air France, Hainan Airlines, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air. Skytrax confirms that Air Mauritius's four-star certification remains current.
The airline's progress in the Skytrax rankings demonstrates its commitment to enhancing passenger satisfaction. With its sights set on becoming a top 20 global airline, Air Mauritius is focused on delivering exceptional service quality. The airline's achievement in the Skytrax 2026 World Airline Awards is a testament to its efforts to improve the passenger experience.
Key points
- Air Mauritius has been ranked 52nd in the Skytrax 2026 World Airline Awards, up 11 places from 2025.
- The airline has also been recognized as the second-best airline in Africa for its cabin crew.
- Air Mauritius aims to become one of the top 20 global airlines, with plans to implement improvements in 2026 and 2027.
