RwandAir Clinches Best Regional Airline Award in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines Dominates

RwandAir has earned the prestigious title of Best Regional Airline in Africa at the 2025 World Airline Awards, a notable achievement that highlights the airline's commitment to exceptional service and growing prominence in the industry. This accolade was awarded during a grand ceremony held at the iconic Air and Space Museum in Paris, coinciding with the renowned Paris Air Show.

The World Airline Awards, organized by Skytrax, are often referred to as the "Oscars of the aviation industry." This year's event showcased the best in African aviation, with Ethiopian Airlines securing the overall title of Best Airline in Africa once again.

The awards recognized airlines based on the feedback of over 22 million travelers globally, celebrating those that excelled in passenger experience. RwandAir's recognition underscores its increasing regional influence and reputation for high-quality service.

The Kigali-based airline received accolades for its focus on consistency, attention to detail, and the personalized experience it provides across all travel classes, making it a preferred choice among regional travelers. Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, remarked, "RwandAir continues to distinguish itself through a clear focus on service attention. The airline has created an experience that stands out in its category—professional, considered, and personal."

Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines solidified its leadership in African aviation by winning awards for Best Business Class, Best Economy Class, and Best Business Class Onboard Catering, further establishing its reputation as a dominant player in both African and international markets.

EgyptAir was recognized as the Most Improved Airline in Africa, achieving honors in customer service categories such as Best Economy Class Onboard Catering and Best Cabin Crew, indicating a robust recovery for the North African airline.

On a global scale, Qatar Airways shone brightly, claiming the title of Airline of the Year 2025 and taking home several awards, including World’s Best Business Class and accolades for service excellence in the Middle East.

The 2025 awards marked a remarkable achievement for African airlines, with more carriers than ever before being acknowledged across various categories typically dominated by international giants. RwandAir's success is reflective of the increasing maturity and competitiveness of regional aviation in Africa, as it continues to build loyalty through a refined in-flight experience and dependable operations.

This recognition also highlights the success of Rwanda's strategy to position Kigali as a key aviation hub, enhancing connectivity throughout Africa and linking the continent to global markets.

The World Airline Awards are based on an independent and comprehensive airline passenger satisfaction survey, which ran from September to May and included responses from over 100 nationalities across 325 airlines. Unlike other industry awards, participation is free for airlines, ensuring the results are a true representation of passenger experiences.

As RwandAir, Ethiopian Airlines, and EgyptAir continue to prioritize service quality and regional connectivity, the trajectory of African aviation is clear: the continent is not only rising, but is also soaring to new heights.