At the 2025 World Airline Awards in Paris, RwandAir was named Best Regional Airline in Africa — a win that reflects the airline’s growing reputation among regional travellers.
The ceremony took place at the Air and Space Museum during the Paris Air Show. Organised by Skytrax, the awards are widely considered among the most credible in the industry — often referred to as “the Oscars of aviation.”
For RwandAir, this recognition isn’t new. The Kigali-based airline has become a regular presence on the Skytrax stage in recent years, with passengers citing its attention to service detail and overall travel experience.
Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, said RwandAir is standing out for its focus on passenger care.
“RwandAir continues to distinguish itself through a clear focus on service attention,” Plaisted said.
“The airline has created an experience that stands out in its category — professional, considered, and personal, as it continues to evolve its regional product with confidence.”
The award reflects how passengers are responding to RwandAir’s consistency and personal touch. Across economy and business class, travellers have praised the airline’s reliability and thoughtful service.
RwandAir is still a relatively young carrier compared to some of its continental peers. But it has gained trust in the region through investment in newer aircraft and a deliberate strategy to make Kigali a regional aviation hub.
Its growth aligns with a broader shift in African aviation.
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, once again took top honors as Best Airline in Africa. It also swept multiple categories, including Best Business Class, Best Economy Class, and Best Business Class Onboard Catering in Africa.
EgyptAir, meanwhile, was named Most Improved Airline in Africa. The North African carrier also took home awards for Best Economy Class Onboard Catering, Best Cabin Crew, and Best Airline Staff — signaling a strong comeback in customer satisfaction.
Outside Africa, Qatar Airways dominated globally. The Gulf carrier was crowned Airline of the Year 2025 and took top prizes for World’s Best Business Class, Cleanest Airline, and Best Business Class Seat.
The Skytrax survey behind these awards is based on responses from over 22 million travellers, collected between September 2024 and May 2025. More than 325 airlines were featured. Importantly, no airline pays to participate — a detail that has helped maintain the awards’ credibility.
This year’s results point to a rising standard among African airlines. More carriers from the continent are being recognized not just in regional categories, but in areas typically dominated by global giants.
For RwandAir, the recognition is more than just a trophy. It’s a sign that African aviation is evolving — and that Kigali’s ambitions to become a regional hub are gaining altitude.
The 2025 World’s Best Regional Airlines
- Bangkok Airways
- Virgin Australia
- Porter Airlines
- Aegean Airlines
- Azerbaijan Airlines
- jetBlue Airways
- Alaska Airlines
- Hong Kong Airlines
- RwandAir
- Royal Air Maroc
