AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
In the latest 2025 AirlineRatings.com safety rankings, UAE carriers Emirates, Etihad Airways and flydubai continue to be recognised as some of the safest airlines globally, earning top spots for their modern fleets, rigorous safety standards and exceptional pilot training programmes.
Emirates, in particular, is poised to make history by becoming the world's first autism-certified airline, demonstrating its commitment to offering a more inclusive flying experience for passengers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Emirates and Etihad Airways (ranking 3rd and 5th respectively) have built prestigious brands with their state-of-the-art fleets, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft, which are known for their advanced safety features.
The airlines earned praise for their outstanding safety records, minimal incidents, and stringent safety audits, ensuring the highest safety standards for passengers and crew.
AirlineRatings.com's "Top 25 Full Service and Low-Cost Airlines" were graded in consultation with check pilots and aviation experts using criteria including: serious incidents over the past two years; fleet age; fleet size; rate of incidents; fatalities; profitability; IOSA certification; ICAO country audit pass; and pilot skill and training.
Flydubai, despite being a smaller carrier, ranked 11th in the safest low-cost airlines list for 2025, for its commitment to safety. It operates a fleet of Boeing 737s that meet the same rigorous standards.
Known for its focus on both efficiency and safety, flydubai has become a trusted name in the region, contributing to the UAE's growing reputation as a global aviation leader.
What sets Emirates apart this year is its groundbreaking initiative to become the world's first autism-certified airline.
Partnering with specialised organisations, Emirates has trained its staff to better understand and support passengers with autism, offering services such as sensory kits, quiet rooms, and tailored assistance throughout the travel experience.
This first-of-its-kind initiative is a significant step toward making air travel more accessible for individuals with autism, demonstrating Emirates' commitment to inclusivity alongside safety and innovation.
A major factor behind the UAE airlines' safety success story is the oversight of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which enforces strict regulations to ensure compliance with international safety standards.
The safety and inclusivity rankings of Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai reinforce the UAE's status as a leader in aviation innovation, setting a high bar for both operational excellence and passenger well-being.
The Safest Full-Service Airlines for 2025 are:
1. Air New Zealand
2. Qantas
3. Cathay Pacific; Qatar Airways; Emirates
4. Virgin Australia
5. Etihad Airways
6. ANA
7. EVA Air
8. Korean Air
9. Alaska Airlines
10. Turkish Airlines