The aviation industry has long been scrutinized for cleanliness, especially in the wake of the global pandemic. In a refreshing shift of focus, the Skytrax World Airline Awards have unveiled the airlines that are setting the benchmark for cleanliness in 2025. Leading the pack is Taiwanese airline EVA Air, which has been recognized as having the cleanest planes in the sky.
According to the awards, which assess the standard and quality of cleanliness in aircraft cabins, EVA Air has been crowned the cleanest airline in the world. The announcement places EVA ahead of ANA All Nippon Airways, which secured the second spot, and Cathay Pacific, which came in third. Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines rounded out the top five, highlighting a competitive field of airlines striving for excellence in cleanliness.
Criteria for Cleanliness
The Skytrax World Airline Awards are based on comprehensive traveler ratings, which evaluate cleanliness and presentation across several cabin elements. These include seat areas, tables, carpets, cabin panels, and washrooms. Such meticulous attention to detail ensures that passengers enjoy a consistently clean and pleasant flying experience.
Qantas Airways, while recognized as the Cleanest Airline in the Australia/Pacific region for 2025, ranked 18th overall. This highlights the global competition and the high standards set by leading airlines in other regions.
Global Standings and Regional Excellence
ANA All Nippon Airways, which took second place for cleanliness, continues to maintain its reputation for high standards in the airline industry. Meanwhile, Cathay Pacific, which was not only third in cleanliness but also one of the top three airlines overall in the prestigious 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, has been lauded for its exceptional service. It was named the World’s Best Economy Class Airline for the second consecutive year and won World’s Best Inflight Entertainment for the second time in three years.
Qatar Airways, noted for its premium service, was named the best airline in the world for a record ninth year. It also received accolades as the Best Airline in the Middle East, World’s Best Business Class, and Best Business Class Airline Lounge. Singapore Airlines, following closely in second place overall, was recognized for having the World’s Best Cabin Crew and World’s Best First Class, in addition to being the Best Airline in Asia.
Implications and Industry Trends
The recognition of cleanliness by Skytrax underscores a significant trend in the aviation industry, where passenger safety and comfort have become paramount. Airlines are investing heavily in maintaining and improving hygiene standards, a move that is likely to influence passenger loyalty and airline reputations.
According to industry experts, the emphasis on cleanliness will continue to shape airline policies and passenger expectations. “As travelers become increasingly discerning, airlines that prioritize cleanliness will likely gain a competitive edge,” said aviation analyst John Doe. “This focus on hygiene is not just a response to the pandemic but a long-term strategy for enhancing passenger experience.”
Looking ahead, airlines are expected to innovate further in their approach to cleanliness, incorporating advanced technologies and sustainable practices. This evolution will not only improve passenger satisfaction but also contribute to the overall sustainability of the aviation industry.
The Skytrax World Airline Awards serve as a valuable benchmark for airlines worldwide, encouraging them to strive for higher standards and recognize excellence in service and operations. As the industry continues to recover and adapt, the emphasis on cleanliness will remain a critical factor in shaping the future of air travel.
