2016's World's Best Airline Named; Air New Zealand Celebrates!

Air New Zealand has been named the 2016 Airline of the Year, in the prestigious Airline Excellence Awards by AirlineRatings.com, according to CNN.

The Australian website rates carriers on in-flight experience and safety.

For the third time in a row, the "industry trendsetter" has won the title along with the Best in Premium Economy Class and Best Economy Class awards.

The airline boasts of star-studded safety videos, and pioneering seat technology like the "Skycouch". It's a row of three economy seats with footrests that lift up.

They also have the "Premium Economy Space" seat, where the person in front would not be able to lean into a passenger's space.

"The innovation at Air New Zealand continues to dazzle and the airline has rolled out some stunning new technology including innovative tracking of unaccompanied children and a wonderful App to get you a prefect cup of coffee before your flight," said Geoffrey Thomas, AirlineRatings.com's Editor-in-Chief.

Air New Zealand was praised for operational safety, environmental leadership and its award-winning in-flight innovations. The Auckland-based airline beat the likes of Virgin Atlantic, Qantas and Etihad Airways, revealed the Daily Mail.

After coming in fourth last year, Australia's flag carrier Qantas, rose to second place on the overall Excellence list, reported Fox News.

The airline was recognized for their customer friendly innovations. Qantas has recently upgraded their Hong Kong and Los Angeles lounges. They also provides four main meal options for economy travellers and customers have access to broadband internet.

Qantas won the Best Lounges, Best Domestic Service and Best Catering awards.

For premium experience, Singapore Airlines and Etihad Airways are top choices, says AirlineRatings.com. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad bagged the Best First Class award, while Singapore Airlines' won in the Business Class category.

Singapore Airline also took home the Best In-Flight entertainment award, having 1,000 on-demand options for their customers.

For the second consecutive year, Virgin Australia and partner Virgin Atlantic won the Best Cabin Crew award.

Virgin Australia was also named Best New World Carrier.

Included in AirlineRatings.com's top 10 airlines of 2016 are, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, EVA Air, All Nippon Airways and German carrier, Lufthansa.