Skytrax survey says Singapore Airlines is world's best airline

Singapore Airlines has been named World's Best Airline in the 2008 Airline of the Year awards, with Cathay pacific chosen second and Qantas (despite it's recent spate of problems) was chosen third.

Along with placing third in the awards behind Singapore and Cathay Pacific, Qantas also won the award for best first class lounge, best economy class catering and best airline in Australasia.

The awards, run by UK-based aviation research agency Skytrax, are based on the world's largest passenger survey, with 15 million passengers taking part around the world.

Singapore won the title for the second year in a row and the third time in 10 years. The airline also took out the award for best business class.

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, who recently expanded their Australian routes, climbed into the top 10 for the first time, placing tenth.

The awards

The world's best airlines

1. Singapore Airlines
2. Cathay Pacific
3. Qantas
4. Thai Airways
5. Asiana Airlines
6. Malaysia Airlines
7. Qatar Airways
8. Air New Zealand
9. Emirates
10. Etihad Airways

Best First Class Cathay Pacific

Best Business Class Singapore Airlines

Best Premium Economy Class EVA Air

Best Economy Class Asiana Airlines

Best low-cost airline easyJet

Best Inflight Entertainment Emirates

Best First Class Catering Cathay Pacific

Best Business Class Catering Austrian

Best Airline : Transatlantic British Airways

Best Airline : Transpacific Air New Zealand