Virgin Australia has been named World’s Best Cabin Crew for the eighth consecutive year in the AirlineRatings.com World’s Best Airlines Awards for 2026. The carrier also ranked third globally in the World’s Best Hybrid Airlines category.
Virgin Australia Group CEO Dave Emerson said the recognition reflects the airline’s focus on its people.
“Winning World’s Best Cabin Crew for the eighth year in a row is something we’re incredibly proud of, because it’s all about our people,” Emerson said. “We always encourage our crew to bring their own unique flair to work, which makes a real difference to the guest experience and is truly what I believe makes our team the best in the world.”
Emerson added that the dual recognition reinforces the airline’s broader performance. “Being ranked in the top three hybrid airlines globally alongside that recognition for our crew really reinforces that we’re delivering great service, strong value, and a consistently wonderful experience right across our network.”
The airline also noted the success of its partner carriers in the 2026 awards. Qatar Airways, Virgin Australia’s long-haul international partner, took home World’s Best Full Service Airline and ranked second in the World’s Best Business Class category for its Qsuite product.
AirlineRatings.com’s annual awards program evaluates airlines across full-service, hybrid, and low-cost categories worldwide, judged by a panel of aviation experts.
