From Food and Drink to Seats and Wifi: Europe’s Top Airlines Revealed
From food and drink to seats – Every year, the aviation industry undergoes a rigorous evaluation to determine which carriers excel in delivering exceptional passenger experiences. The 2026 APEX Best Awards, organized by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) since 2021, have once again spotlighted the leading European airlines across key categories. These awards, which are based on real-time feedback from millions of travelers, cover a range of factors that influence air travel satisfaction, from in-flight dining to technological amenities like Starlink connectivity.
The Criteria Behind the Awards
For passengers, the decision to choose an airline often hinges on personal preferences. Some prioritize seamless entertainment systems, while others value the quality of their meals. A third group may focus on comfort, opting for carriers that offer ergonomic seating. The APEX Best Awards take all these considerations into account, assessing airlines based on feedback collected through the TripIt from Concur app. This platform allows travelers to rate their flights on a scale of one to five across various categories, including cabin service, entertainment, food and beverages, seat comfort, and wifi performance.
“Passenger feedback remains one of the clearest indicators of how airlines are delivering on the experiences travellers value most,” said Dr. Joe Leader, CEO of the APEX Group. “This year’s APEX Best Award winners are turning passenger insights into meaningful innovation. By listening, adapting, and investing, they are raising expectations, shaping the future of the onboard experience, and setting new benchmarks for service and innovation across the industry.”
The awards serve as a comprehensive guide, highlighting airlines that consistently meet or exceed customer expectations. With categories spanning multiple aspects of travel, the results provide a well-rounded view of what defines a superior airline. Notably, the overall best airline in Europe was crowned as Virgin Atlantic, a title that underscores the carrier’s holistic approach to passenger satisfaction.
European Airlines Shine in Key Categories
Among the standout performers in the 2026 APEX Best Awards, Turkish Airlines emerged as the only European carrier to win in two distinct categories. This achievement places the airline in the spotlight for its exceptional entertainment offerings and superior food and beverage service. Turkish Airlines’ success is a testament to its ability to blend cultural authenticity with modern amenities, creating a memorable experience for travelers.
For those seeking top-tier cabin service, KLM, the flag carrier of the Netherlands, took the lead. Known for its elegant and well-maintained aircraft, KLM has long been a favorite among passengers who appreciate a balance between comfort and convenience. The airline’s focus on hygiene, personalized service, and modern amenities has solidified its position as a leader in this category.
When it comes to in-flight connectivity, airBaltic made headlines by securing the best wifi award. As the first European airline to introduce Starlink services in early 2025, airBaltic has redefined what passengers expect from onboard internet. This Latvian carrier’s proactive adoption of cutting-edge technology has not only enhanced the digital experience for travelers but also set a new standard for the industry.
Seat comfort was another area where Finnair excelled, winning the award for this category. The Finnish airline has invested heavily in ergonomic design, ensuring that its seating options cater to a wide range of traveler needs. Whether it’s long-haul flights or short domestic trips, Finnair’s attention to detail in cabin design has made it a top choice for those seeking relaxation in the air.
Global Recognition and Regional Excellence
While the awards primarily focus on European carriers, they also include global winners who demonstrate excellence on an international scale. In the category of cabin service, Korean Air was recognized for its exceptional standards, reflecting its reputation as a premier airline. For entertainment, Emirates secured the top spot, showcasing its state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems that cater to diverse tastes.
Qatar Airways was honored with the best food and beverage award, highlighting its commitment to culinary excellence. The airline’s menu, crafted by renowned chefs, combines traditional Middle Eastern flavors with contemporary international cuisine, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Meanwhile, Eva Air claimed the best seat comfort title globally, emphasizing its dedication to passenger comfort through innovative seating solutions.
Delta Air Lines, a US-based carrier, was named the best for wifi, a category that has become increasingly important in today’s digital-first world. Delta’s partnership with Starlink has provided passengers with reliable, high-speed internet, making it a preferred choice for those who rely on connectivity during their journeys.
Why These Awards Matter for Travelers
The APEX Best Awards are more than just a list of winners; they reflect the evolving priorities of air travelers. As the industry continues to adapt to changing demands, these accolades serve as a benchmark for what airlines can achieve. The inclusion of categories like entertainment and wifi underscores the growing emphasis on technology and personalization in modern air travel.
For passengers, these awards offer practical insights into which airlines align with their preferences. Whether it’s a desire for superior dining options, the need for reliable internet, or the pursuit of cozy seating, the APEX rankings provide a clear roadmap. This year’s results also highlight the importance of continuous improvement, as airlines that win these awards are often those that prioritize passenger feedback and translate it into tangible upgrades.
European airlines, in particular, are leveraging these awards to showcase their advancements. From Turkish Airlines’ integration of high-quality entertainment to Finnair’s focus on ergonomic design, the continent is proving that it remains a competitive player in the global aviation landscape. The recognition of Virgin Atlantic as the overall best airline further emphasizes the region’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, delivering experiences that resonate with a broad audience.
As the travel industry moves forward, the APEX Best Awards will continue to play a vital role in shaping trends and setting standards. For travelers, these accolades are a valuable resource, helping them make informed decisions about which airlines to choose. For airlines, the awards represent a chance to innovate and elevate their offerings, ensuring they stay ahead in an increasingly demanding market.
