Canadian Carriers Shine at 2026 World Airline Awards

At the 2026 World Airline Awards, Canadian carriers Air Transat, Air Canada, and Porter Airlines took home major honors. The awards were announced on September 18 at the Langham Hotel in London by Skytrax, which organizes the annual awards. According to Skytrax, the results are based on passenger survey responses, with more than 300 airlines included in the 2026 results.

Air Transat was named the World's Best Leisure Airline and also received the title of Best Leisure Airline in North America, its eighth time winning the global leisure airline award. President and CEO Annick Guérard called the recognition 'a tremendous source of pride,' crediting the airline's teams for the achievement.

Air Canada collected several awards, including Best Airline in North America, Best Cabin Crew in Canada, and Best Economy Class Onboard Catering in North America. The airline received additional recognition for its Toronto Pearson lounges, which won Best Business Class Airline Lounge Catering and Best Business Class Lounge in North America.

Porter Airlines was another Canadian winner, taking the title of Best Regional Airline in North America. Globally, Singapore Airlines was named the World's Best Airline for 2026, marking the sixth time it has received the top title. Qatar Airways placed second overall, followed by Cathay Pacific Airways and ANA All Nippon Airways.