Cathay Pacific retains third-best airline title, wins cabin crew and lounge awards

Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways has been ranked the world’s third-best airline for the second consecutive year, while also taking top awards for best cabin crew and first-class lounge in new industry rankings.Singapore Airlines reclaimed the top spot in the British-based Skytrax World Airline Awards, moving up from second place last year and swapping positions with Qatar Airways, which dropped to second.“These recognitions are a testament to the incredible efforts of the entire Cathay team, who continue to deliver excellence in customer experience and service both in the air and on the ground,” Cathay Group chief executive Ronald Lam Siu-por said in a statement issued late on Friday.“Importantly, they will serve to motivate us to keep improving as we strive to become our customers’ most loved service brand.”Cathay has climbed steadily in the annual Skytrax rankings since the city’s post-pandemic reopening. Photo: Elson LiLam, who attended the awards ceremony in London, said the airline had committed around HK$150 billion (US$19 billion) to expand and upgrade its fleet, enhance cabins and lounges, and drive digital innovation.He said the investments would “elevate the customer experience and reinforce Hong Kong’s status as a world-class international aviation hub.”The award for best first-class lounge follows the April reopening of The Wing, First – Cathay’s flagship first-class lounge – at the Hong Kong International Airport.Cathay has climbed steadily in the annual Skytrax rankings since the city’s post-pandemic reopening, placing eighth in 2023, fifth in 2024 and third in 2025 before retaining the position this year.