We’re always told to focus on the journey, not the destination – but, when it comes to booking a trip abroad, plenty of us are more focused on where we want to go over how we want to get there.
However, if you’d like to make sure yours is an all-round amazing trip, then it’s worth paying a little more attention to the airline you choose to fly with.
And, if you want the very best flight, then you ought to opt for Air New Zealand.
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That’s right; Air New Zealand has been named the best airline in the world for the fourth consecutive year at the 2017 Airline Excellence Awards.
Praised for its innovative new features, including its “cuddle class seating” for more affectionate passengers, the company was also hailed for its environmental leadership, motivated staff, and financial performance.
Fleet age, passenger review, ratings, and key product offerings were also considered.
AirlineRatings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas said: “In our objective analysis Air New Zealand came out number one in virtually all of our audit criteria, which is an exceptional performance.”
He continued: “Quite simply Air New Zealand is an airline of first choice. And given the airline’s location and the country’s size, its performance is even more remarkable.
“This outstanding performance has seen Air New Zealand catapult to the top tier of the industry in a host of areas.”
Meanwhile Etihad Airways was praised for offering the Best First Class packages, while Virgin Australia was applauded for having the Best Business Class. Virgin Airways, as a whole, also picked up the award for Best Cabin Crew – thanks to their unfailing “commitment to their passengers”.
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In overall rankings, however, New Zealand had staunch competition from Qantas Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific Airways.
You can see the full list of the best airlines below.
The top 10 best airlines of 2017 are:
- Air New Zealand
- Qantas Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Cathay Pacific Airways
- Virgin Australia/Virgin Atlantic
- British Airways
- Etihad Airways
- All Nippon Airways
- Eva Air
- Lufthansa
“Whether number one or number 10, these airlines are the best of the best – the elite in aviation,” said Thomas. “They are the trendsetters and the benchmark by which all others are judged.”
Time to get that flight booked, we say…
Aspinal Leopard Print Candy Case
This is the smallest suitcase in Aspinal of London's travel line, but it's by far one of their most stylish. Ideal to bring as carry-on luggage for a quick business trip, this lightweight case conforms to both IATA and BAA regulation sizes.
£595, selfridges.com
United Colors of Benetton Red Suitcase
If you travel quite a lot, it's good to have a bright, easy-to-spot suitcase so you can collect your luggage quickly after a flight. Plus, as this colourful Benetton suitcase is nice and sturdy, you won't have to worry about your precious possessions getting crushed.
£89.90, benetton.com
Aspinal St Tropez Cabin Bag
Easy to carry and with plenty of space inside, the Aspinal of London St Tropez Cabin Bag does exactly what it does on the tin, and will fit perfectly in the overheard compartment of any plane - and it's also a lovely colour.
£525, aspinaloflondon.com
Lanvin Amalia Voyage Leather Suitcase
This gorgeous, quilted leather suitcase is inspired by Lanvin's "Amalia" handbag, and has more than enough space for you to fit all of your goodies for a weekend or short trip away in. With wheels, multiple compartments and sturdy straps, this suitcase is perfect for every jetsetter.
£2,110, net-a-porter.com
Jimmy Choo Patent Leather Suitcase
How gorgeous is this suitcase? Made from a lovely shade of nude patent leather, this bag oozes the same glamour as a pair of Jimmy Choo heels. Wheeled and fully lined with leopard-print twill, this Choo suitcase has designer-stamped gold hardware and side handles, as well as plenty of zipped pockets and compartments for all of your travel accessories.
£1,195, net-a-porter.com
Vivienne Westwood Derby Tartan Weekend Bag
A Vivienne Westwood bag will look fabulous any time, any place, but this Derby Tartan Weekend Bag especially appeals to us. Made from multicolored coated-canvas, it has a removable adjustable shoulder strap as well as an internal pouch pocket. An amazing way to carry all of your essential items for a mini-holiday.
£540, net-a-porter.com
Mulberry Scotchgrain Trolley
With its separate compartments, this medium sized trolley is a great option if you tend to pack more than you need, or just need plenty of options for what to wear on your mini-break. Classic, chic and spacious, it's also finished with a luggage tag to ensure your luggage always finds its way back to you.
£664, selfridges.com
Mulberry Clipper Twill Fold-Up Bag
This hot pink weekender bag is handy as it is bright. Whether you take it with you on a city break or just to your boyfriend's house for the weekend, this is your perfect companion for any quick journey - plus the neon pink colour is very on-trend this season. Double win.
£189, net-a-porter.com
Orla Keiley Tripp Cabin Upright Bag
Orla Keily's cheerful designs always bring a smile to our face, and we imagine owning this uber cute, small suitcase will make any business trip more enjoyable.
£145, orlakeily.com
Cath Kidston Summer Blossom Overnight Bag
This floral overnight bag from Cath Kidston perfect for romantic excapes to the countryside. The fabric can be wiped clean, and the handles mean it will be nice and sturdy for travelling by plane, train or otherwise.
£65, cathkidston.co.uk
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