These Are The Safest Airlines In the World, According to Expert Data

"Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad was ranked the safest full-service airline in the world for 2026, becoming the first Gulf carrier to take the top spot on the annual AirlineRatings.com list. The honor was granted thanks to a combination of the airline's young fleet, advancements in cockpit safety, the carrier's crash-free history, and the lowest incident rate per flight of any airline listed, according to Airline Ratings."

"Overall, it is important to note that every airline featured in the 2026 list has recorded incidents over the past two years, from tail strikes to on-board fires and engine shutdowns, yet the actual incident rate per flight sits between 0.002 and 0.09 across the airlines, which is a true credit to the industry as a whole. All airlines in the Top 25 are world leaders in aviation safety."

"Etihad operates flights to several cities in the United States, including Boston, Chicago, New York, Washington D.C., and Atlanta with plans to launch flights to Charlotte this year. The carrier, which was also named one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite international airlines of 2025, is known for a comfortable experience in economy and over-the-top options like The Residence, a three-room suite complete with a private bedroom, separate living area, and an ensuite shower room."

Etihad topped the 2026 safety rankings, earning the first Gulf carrier placement at number one. The ranking cited Etihad's young fleet, cockpit safety advancements, crash-free history, and the lowest incident rate per flight among listed airlines. AirlineRatings evaluated total flights, fleet age, serious incidents, pilot training, international safety audits, and turbulence prevention. Airlines in the 2026 list recorded incidents over the past two years, yet incident rates per flight ranged between 0.002 and 0.09. Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Qatar Airways, and Emirates filled the next top positions. Etihad serves multiple U.S. cities and offers premium products including The Residence.

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