Four Southeast Asian Airlines Rank in World Top 20 for Airport Services
Southeast Asia strengthened its standing in global aviation as four regional carriers secured positions in the world’s top 20 for airport services in Skytrax’s 2026 survey of more than 24 million travelers, reflecting high marks for efficient ground handling, check-in facilities, and lounge quality.
Malaysia Airlines Leads Regional Surge at Kuala Lumpur International Airport
Malaysia Airlines claimed second place in the global rankings, finishing directly behind Japan’s ANA All Nippon Airways in the 2026 Skytrax evaluation. The carrier earned high marks from travelers for providing efficient check-in and baggage handling processes alongside high-quality lounge services at its main hub, Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
The carrier is actively expanding its footprint across international markets, notably growing its presence in China through new routes and deeper digital partnerships. Passenger traffic across its China network rose 27 percent in the first half of 2026, carrying more than 600,000 passengers with an average load factor of 84 percent during the six-month period.
Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and Garuda Indonesia Round Out Regional Standouts
Regional competitors also secured prominent placements across the global index. Singapore Airlines ranked fourth, maintaining its longstanding reputation for high-end passenger experience and rigorous service standards. Thailand-based Thai Airways claimed the seventh position, while Indonesia’s flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia, landed at number 11.
Japan Airlines, which held the top spot in the previous survey cycle, slipped to third place in the 2026 rankings.