Emirates has been named the world's best airline for inflight entertainment at the 2026 World Airline Awards, run by Skytrax, giving the Dubai carrier a category win that matters to the millions of long-haul passengers who pass through its cabins each year.
The airline's ice entertainment system, which offers thousands of channels of films, television and music across its fleet, was the deciding factor. Emirates says the system now offers up to 6,500 channels of movies, TV shows, music and games on demand, available in multiple languages. The airline also offers free Starlink Wi-Fi on selected flights, giving passengers faster connectivity alongside the entertainment lineup.
Strong showing beyond entertainment
Emirates did not just win one category. It was ranked the second most family-friendly airline in the world, behind Taiwan's EVA Air, which took first place. Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines rounded out the rest of the top five in that ranking.
The airline also placed second for Best Premium Economy Class Airline and fourth for Best First Class Airline, reflecting consistent performance across several of the survey's cabin categories. In the overall World's Top 20 Airlines ranking, Emirates came in sixth.
Where Emirates sits in the wider field
Singapore Airlines was named the World's Best Airline for the sixth time, continuing its hold on the top overall spot. Qatar Airways, which had won the top award nine times previously, slipped to second place this year.
