Alaska Airlines Named Safest Airline in the US – World’s Top Airlines Ranking
Alaska Airlines has been named the safest airline in the United States, according to the latest rankings by AirlineRatings.com. The prestigious title of the safest airline worldwide in 2025, however, was awarded to Air New Zealand, known for its long-haul flights, particularly the 8,828-mile journey from New York’s JFK Airport to Auckland, New Zealand. This epic trip takes approximately 16 hours and 15 minutes, making it one of the longest regularly-scheduled routes globally.
Close Competition for the Top Spot
The competition for the top spot was fierce, with Qantas coming in a close second to Air New Zealand, with a mere 1.50 points difference between the two airlines. CEO Sharon Petersen of AirlineRatings.com highlighted that both airlines maintain exceptionally high safety standards and pilot training. The distinction came down to the age of the fleet, where Air New Zealand’s fleet is notably younger than that of Qantas.
Methodology and Expert Consultation
AirlineRatings.com, established in 2012, is the world’s sole airline safety and product rating website. To determine the rankings, a team of aviation writers, editors, and researchers meticulously assess serious incidents, incident management, fleet age, size, rate of incidents, fatalities, financial stability, pilot skill, training, among other factors. The site also consults with pilots and aviation experts to ensure a comprehensive evaluation process.
US Carrier Rankings and Safety Record
Among US carriers, Alaska Airlines claimed the top spot at number nine on the list, followed by Hawaiian at 12th place, American at 13th, Delta at 21st, and United at the bottom of the rankings. Alaska Airlines’ ranking was particularly noteworthy, especially considering the high-profile Flight 1282 incident from the previous year, attributed to manufacturing defects with the Boeing aircraft rather than the airline’s fault.
Safest Low-Cost Airlines and Honorable Mentions
In addition to the full-service airline rankings, AirlineRatings.com also highlighted the safest low-cost airlines for 2025. Hong Kong Express secured the top spot, with Jetstar Group in second place, followed by Ryanair and easyJet. Notably, Spirit Airlines was excluded from the list due to filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in late 2024.
With safety being a top priority for travelers, these rankings provide valuable insights into airlines’ commitment to passenger well-being and operational excellence. Congratulations to all the airlines recognized for their dedication to maintaining the highest safety standards in the industry.