Themed “The Art and Science of Emo3onal Connec3ons In a Competitive World,” the one-day summit brings together leading voices in marketing, communications, and business strategy to explore how emotional intelligence, storytelling, and cultural relevance shape branding in today’s saturated and fast-paced market.

Structured as a one-day learning and networking experience, the event is designed to explore how emotional intelligence, cultural resonance, and strategic storytelling can help brands build stronger connections with their audiences and navigate an increasingly fragmented marketplace.

Speaking at a recent press briefing in Kampala, Daniel Ochieng, Learning and Development Consultant and event host, described the summit as a timely platform for both reflection and reimagination.

“This gathering is not just about marketing; it’s about brand purpose, leadership, and how organisations must evolve to meet the emotional and cultural expectations of multi-generational consumers. We are calling on business leaders and marketing professionals to join us in shaping the future of branding in Uganda,” he said.

In a show of industry-wide support, the summit has attracted participation from key players in media, advertising, manufacturing, and digital communications.

Festo Mwebaze Syalhasha, CIM tutor at Datamine and Marketing Manager at Quality Chemical Industries Ltd, praised the summit’s relevance in a digitally connected, emotionally driven economy.

“We’re preparing marketers not just to sell products, but to connect with people in ways that are genuine and sustainable. This summit is a major leap forward,” he said.

The event is being held in partnership with Nation Media Group Uganda, whose Head of Marketing, Hajara Ddagire Batuuka, confirmed the group’s role as official media partner.

“As Nation Media Group, we are proud to support initiatives that contribute to thought leadership and sector innovation. This summit will spark vital conversations and elevate how brands engage with Ugandan audiences,” she said.

From the printing and branding space, Maud Mutungira, Marketing Manager, Commercial at Graphic Systems Uganda, expressed optimism about the opportunities the summit creates for creative innovation.

“This event speaks to the future of how we present, design, and deliver brand experiences. It’s an ecosystem moment,” she noted.

Corporate support has also come from Uganda Breweries Limited, represented at the briefing by Caroline Ampaire, Digital and Media Manager.

“We’ve learned over time that emotional connection with the consumer is what builds trust and loyalty. This summit gives us a stage to both reflect and retool our approaches,” she said.

From the creative advertising sector, Andy Radier, a Creative Director, emphasised the importance of deep, localised storytelling.

“Brands that win today are those that understand cultural nuance and use creativity to tap into emotion. This summit aligns with that mission,” he said.

In the youth marketing space, Laura Muhumuza, Country Manager at Buzz Group Africa, highlighted the summit’s role in bridging insight and impact.

“For youth-driven brands, it’s no longer about the loudest message—it’s about the most memorable feeling,” she stated. “We are excited to join a conversation that prioritises empathy and authenticity.”

Representing logistics and operations, Boniface Kipchirchir, Head of Operations at Stabex International Ltd, welcomed the summit’s inclusive agenda.

“Even in sectors like ours, how the brand is perceived emotionally matters. We see this event as a catalyst for business-wide brand alignment,” he said.

Among the summit’s highlights will be a keynote address from renowned global brand strategist Graham Robertson, founder of Beloved Brands.

Known for shaping strategy at companies like Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson, and the NFL, this marks his first-ever appearance in East Africa.

“I’m thrilled to bring fresh thinking on emotional branding to Kampala. The brands that win hearts are the ones that understand the emotional journey behind every purchase,” he said.

The main session will feature a high-level panel of brand leaders moderated by Johnpaul Okwi, Chartered Marketer and Sponsorships Manager at MTN Uganda.

The panel will explore how emotional relevance drives loyalty and growth. Speakers will include Catherine Ndungu (Uganda Breweries Ltd), Daniel Kayongo (Kansai Plascon), Charity Winnie Asiimwe (dfcu Bank), Rommel Jasi (Saladin Media), and Juliana Kagwa (Uganda Tourism Board).

With tickets available at UGX 150,000 (individuals) and UGX 2,000,000 (tables of 8), the summit promises to offer deep learning, peer networking, and access to curated resources from Beloved Brands. Payments can be made via Airtel Money Pay (4379648) or MTN MoMo Pay (303914) under Basewood Consult Uganda Ltd.

The Datamine Summit 2025 is more than a conference—it is a movement to redefine what it means to build a beloved brand in a competitive and emotionally complex market.

The post What Top CEOs, Creatives, and Marketers Are Doing on June 27 Will Blow Your Mind appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

This phase will be implemented at the Malaba and Mutukula border entry points.

According to the Ministry, vehicle owners in this category will now have access to digital registration plates at a cost of Shs714,300.

The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to modernise Uganda’s motor vehicle registration process and enhance road safety.

How to Apply for Digital Registration Plates

The process varies depending on the route taken by vehicle owners to clear taxes:

Vehicles Clearing Taxes Directly at Mombasa or Dar es Salaam Ports

Vehicle owners in this category benefit from a streamlined process. After clearing taxes at these ports, vehicles will enter Uganda already fitted with digital number plates and accompanied by a logbook.

Owners must log into the ministry’s booking system immediately after taxes are cleared to confirm their registration.

Vehicles Cleared from Bonded Warehouses in Uganda

For vehicles cleared from bonded warehouses, owners must complete all tax assessments via the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) portal.

This includes verification by the Motor Vehicle Registration Department under the Ministry of Works and Transport.

Once taxes and assessments are confirmed, clients can select a preferred location and time for the installation of the digital number plates.

The Ministry has assured vehicle owners that the service will be made convenient by bringing the fitment of registration plates to the chosen locations.

The rollout of digital number plates is part of the government’s broader initiative to enhance road safety, improve vehicle tracking, and streamline the registration process.

The Ministry encourages vehicle owners to comply promptly to benefit from these advancements.

The post How to apply for Digital Number Plates for New Vehicle Registrations in Uganda appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

The national e-mobility strategy, whose implementation started last year, is a blueprint that will see the entire government fleet electrified.

This 5-year target is expected to be achieved with the increase in local production of electric vehicles, including buses, saloon cars, and motorcycles, as well as imports, which are now duty-free.

The local manufacturing of electric vehicles is being spearheaded by Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), a government-owned company, while the ministry is also supporting at least five motorcycle companies such as Zembo, Spiro, Kara and Gogo.

While the ministry has asked and expects the government to increase funding to the e-mobility industry, it has mobilised a financing model that involves private sector players and government ministries, departments, and agencies.

Dr Cosmas Twikirize, superintendent of the industrial value chain at the Ministry of Science, says the first call that involved all players resulted in funding commitments worth $800 million towards implementing the strategy that is aimed at making Uganda “a net source of e-mobility solutions.”.

Currently, the country has an installed production capacity of 10,000 units of e-mobility solutions, including 2,500 buses at KMC, as well as three-wheel vehicles and two-wheelers (electric bicycles). Currently, there are 37 buses already assembled, some already bought, 27 (especially the electric ones) produced at the Kiira plant and the others in partnership with Luwero Industries. The company is now working to deliver the 100 pre-ordered buses. The motorcycle manufacturing companies have so far delivered and supplied more than 4,300 units.

“There is no excuse for any government MDA to import buses when we have ours. They are really good and reliable,” says Twikirize.

The local production industry is also being supported by the government through exemption from value-added tax (VAT) as well as tax exemption on imported parts as well as income tax breaks of up to 10 years for manufacturing companies. This is also expected to ensure all the vehicles and motorcycles plus their components and accessories are, in the long run, fully manufactured within the country.

Currently, vehicles being manufactured in Uganda have a local content component of between 20 and 30 per cent, with plans to increase this to 65 per cent by 2030. However, some parts will continue being outsourced because, according to Twikirize, it might not make business sense as yet. He gave the example of nuts, saying it would take a lot of money, yet the company would need just a few bolts and nuts.

“We know where we can break the ground because, for instance, we have our natural resources like lithium, copper, iron ore and graphite which we plan to invest in the production of batteries,” he said, adding that products like leather, plastics and rubber can fully be manufactured locally.

Currently, the parts produced in Uganda or are in line to start producing include parts, chassis, frames, car seats and EV batteries, as part of the roadmap to 65 per cent localization by the end of 2027.

Despite this, last year, the international vehicle industry recognised Uganda as a manufacturer of motor vehicles, with the granting of the World Manufacturer’s Identifier (WMI) by SAE (Society of Automobile Engineers) International.

The WMI grants permission to Uganda to issue a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a unique number for a particular vehicle which identifies the vehicle as made in Uganda. As production and importation of electric vehicles increase, the challenge at hand is the infrastructure, like charging stations.

The ministry says this is being handled, with the country now having at least 50 charging stations including seven installed by the ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. The ministry says more stations are expected to be installed especially by the private sector as demand grows, as has been the case with motorcycle battery swapping stations, now numbering over 150 countrywide.

Furthermore, KMC has plans for expansion at the 100-acre piece of land which will see it raise output capacity from the current 2,500 to 5,000 units a year.

To increase the production capacity and diversify into SUVs (Spots Utility Vehicles), Kiira has acquired two square miles of land at Kayunga for the establishment of an Automobile Industrial and Technology Park.

The feasibility study and business plan have been done for the facility that is planned to be the ‘centre of e-utility vehicles’ and is awaiting the government’s construction of the infrastructure utilities there, according to Twikirize.

On the slow uptake of the vehicles, the ministry says apart from the existing financing models, especially for the private sector, the support mechanisms for production, they are also working on how to penetrate the market.

Last year, KMC launched what they are using as a pilot for Public Smart Mobility in the metropolitan area and supported the Jinja e-Bus project. The buses are now plying the Jinja-Iganga road with four buses deployed. Twikirize says they have noted overwhelming response from the public towards this metropolitan bus transport system, and says it will be profitable.

According to Twikirize, even if a private investor took buses on credit, a break-even is possible within a short time, especially because the buses are very easy to maintain because they do not consume fuel.

The post Govt Promises Fully Electric Public Transport by 2030 appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

This marks the sixth time the Montreal-based airline has received this global accolade, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the leisure travel industry.

Miguel Teixeira, Vice President of In-Flight Services & Customer Experience, attributed the win to the airline’s unwavering focus on enhancing passenger satisfaction.

“To be recognized again with this award is incredibly gratifying,” Teixeira said. “It reflects our commitment to providing passengers with an outstanding travel experience and the amazing enhancements we’ve made to our inflight product and service levels.”

Annick Guérard, President and CEO of Transat, praised the efforts of the airline’s staff. “I am deeply grateful to our employees for their remarkable professionalism and dedication. Their contributions are at the heart of this significant achievement,” Guérard said. “Winning this award for the sixth time underscores the extraordinary efforts of our team and their essential role in our continued success.”

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, highlighted Air Transat’s consistent excellence.

“The success of Air Transat in winning this top accolade showcases the airline’s top-level service and travel experience for their customers,” Plaisted said. “This achievement solidifies their position as a market leader in the leisure airline industry and is a factor that Air Transat management and staff should be extremely proud of.”

The award is based on passenger satisfaction, with criteria covering inflight and airport experiences such as check-in, boarding, seat comfort, cleanliness, and customer service.

Air Transat first won the title in 2012 and has continued to build on this success, claiming the award in 2018, 2019, 2021, 2023, and now 2024. In 2022, it was also named North America’s Best Leisure Airline.

About the Skytrax Awards

Known as the “Oscars of the aviation industry,” the Skytrax World Airline Awards are based on a global customer satisfaction survey. For the 2023/2024 awards, over 21.42 million eligible entries were submitted from 100 nationalities, assessing more than 350 airlines worldwide.

Air Transat’s consistent recognition in the Skytrax awards reflects its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional leisure travel experiences. As the airline continues to enhance its services, it remains a trusted choice for holidaymakers seeking comfort and reliability in the skies.

The post Air Transat Voted World’s Best Leisure Airline appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

From legacy carriers to low-cost operators and regional specialists, the country’s airlines and aviation companies offer diverse services, making Canada a hub for innovation and connectivity in the global aviation sector.

Here’s an overview of the top airlines and aviation companies shaping the Canadian skies.

Air Canada: The National Flag Carrier

As Canada’s largest airline and one of the world’s leading international carriers, Air Canada dominates the aviation landscape. Based in Montreal, Air Canada serves over 200 destinations on six continents, offering both passenger and cargo services.

Its loyalty program, Aeroplane, is one of the most popular in the country, and the airline consistently invests in fleet upgrades, including fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A220 and Boeing 787 Dream-liner.

WestJet Airlines: Low-Cost Pioneer

Headquartered in Calgary, WestJet Airlines revolutionized Canadian air travel with its affordable fares and customer-focused services. Initially a domestic carrier, WestJet has expanded its network to include international destinations across Europe, the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

The airline’s premium economy and business class services cater to a growing demand for affordable luxury travel.

Porter Airlines: Redefining Regional Travel

Porter Airlines, based in Toronto and operating from the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, is renowned for its focus on convenience and comfort. It primarily serves regional destinations in Canada and the United States, offering a boutique flying experience with complimentary snacks and beverages. Porter’s expansion plans include adding larger Embraer E195-E2 jets to its fleet, enabling it to serve more distant markets.

Air Transat: Leader in Leisure Travel

Specializing in holiday travel, Air Transat is a favourite among Canadians looking for affordable flights to vacation destinations. Based in Montreal, the airline offers flights to Europe, the Caribbean, and Central America, as well as domestic routes.

Its commitment to sustainable tourism has earned it recognition as one of the world’s most eco-friendly airlines.

Flair Airlines and Lynx Air: Low-Cost Contenders

Canada’s low-cost airline market is growing, with Flair Airlines and Lynx Air leading the charge. Flair Airlines, based in Edmonton, offers no-frills service to a mix of domestic and international destinations. Lynx Air, headquartered in Calgary, is a relatively new player but has quickly gained traction for its competitive pricing and focus on under-served markets.

Jazz Aviation: Regional Powerhouse

A subsidiary of Chorus Aviation, Jazz Aviation operates flights on behalf of Air Canada under the Air Canada Express brand. It connects smaller communities to major hubs across Canada, making it an integral part of the national transportation network.

Jazz is also a significant employer in the aviation industry, providing opportunities for pilots, flight attendants, and ground crew.

Cargojet: Backbone of Air Freight

For those interested in the logistics side of aviation, Cargojet is a dominant player in the Canadian air cargo market. Based in Mississauga, Ontario, the company provides time-sensitive air freight services across Canada and internationally.

Cargo-jet’s partnerships with e-commerce giants like Amazon underline its critical role in supporting global supply chains.

Sunwing Airlines: Sunshine Specialists

Catering to holidaymakers, Sunwing Airlines focuses on travel to sunny destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. Based in Toronto, Sunwing pairs its flight services with vacation packages, making it a go-to choice for Canadians planning all-inclusive getaways.

Air Inuit and First Air: Serving the North

In Canada’s remote northern regions, airlines like Air Inuit and First Air (operating as Canadian North) are lifelines for communities.

They provide essential passenger, cargo, and medical evacuation services, connecting isolated areas with the rest of the country. These carriers also play a critical role in supporting the resource and tourism industries in the Arctic.

Key Developments in Canadian Aviation

The Canadian aviation sector continues to adapt to challenges such as post-pandemic recovery, environmental sustainability, and evolving passenger expectations.

Airlines are investing in greener technologies, such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and more efficient aircraft, to reduce their environmental footprint. Additionally, industry players are exploring innovations like biometric check-ins and enhanced in-flight connectivity to improve the customer experience.

Conclusion

Canada’s airlines and aviation companies are as diverse as the country itself, catering to the unique needs of its population and economy. Whether you’re a traveler seeking affordable options, a business professional relying on seamless connections, or a job seeker aspiring to join this dynamic industry, these leading carriers showcase the best of Canadian aviation.

With ongoing investments in technology, sustainability, and service quality, Canada’s aviation sector is poised for a bright future in the global skies.

The post Top 10 Airlines and Aviation Companies in Canada appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

In this article, we highlight how much airline pilots make, what their job responsibilities are, the job outlook for airline pilots and how these professionals can increase their salaries.

How much do airline pilots make?

The average salary in the United States for airline pilots is $52,782 per year. Airline pilot salaries can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Education level
• Location
• Airline
• Aircraft type
• Years of flight experience
• Seniority level in the airline

Airline pilot salaries by state

For those wondering how much airline pilots earn, salaries can vary according to where they operate. Here are the average salaries for each state. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, visit indeed.com/salaries.

• Alabama: $50,297 per year
• Alaska: $53,459 per year
• Arizona: $52,803 per year
• Arkansas: $49,042 per year
• California: $57,194 per year
• Colorado: $54,774 per year
• Connecticut: $54,884 per year
• Delaware: $52,015 per year
• Florida: $50,786 per year
• Georgia: $51,953 per year
• Hawaii: $51,686 per year
• Idaho: $48,635 per year
• Illinois: $53,996 per year
• Indiana: $50,153 per year
• Iowa: $50,725 per year
• Kansas: $49,647 per year
• Kentucky: $49,036 per year
• Louisiana: $49,949 per year
• Maine: $50,851 per year
• Maryland: $55,020 per year
• Massachusetts: $56,737 per year
• Michigan: $51,385 per year
• Minnesota: $53,273 per year
• Mississippi: $47,776 per year
• Missouri: $52,099 per year
• Montana: $48,450 per year
• Nebraska: $50,283 per year
• Nevada: $51,998 per year
• New Hampshire: $51,170 per year
• New Jersey: $55,243 per year
• New Mexico: $50,840 per year
• New York: $56,493 per year
• North Carolina: $51,606 per year
• North Dakota: $51,015 per year
• Ohio: $50,898 per year
• Oklahoma: $48,967 per year
• Oregon: $53,306 per year
• Pennsylvania: $52,399 per year
• Rhode Island: $52,464 per year
• South Carolina: $50,148 per year
• South Dakota: $49,421 per year
• Tennessee: $50,687 per year
• Texas: $52,786 per year
• Utah: $50,631 per year
• Vermont: $50,067 per year
• Virginia: $54,240 per year
• Washington: $55,940 per year
• West Virginia: $48,597 per year
• Wisconsin: $51,077 per year
• Wyoming: $49,960 per year

Frequently asked questions about the salary of airline pilots

Here are some frequently asked questions to help those who are thinking about becoming an airline pilot:

Do airline pilots get hourly or monthly payments?

Airline pilots often receive hourly pay for each flight hour they log and a per diem allowance that covers the airline pilot’s incidental expenses, meals and overnight hotel stays. Some airlines may offer airline pilots a work guarantee of flying a minimum number of flight hours per month.

With this, they can expect to fly for a specified duration per month for that airline and earn a steady minimum income.

Are airline pilot salaries dependent on the type of aircraft they fly?

Airline pilots who fly legacy jet air carriers typically receive the highest hourly pay. It’s comparatively lower for non-jet aeroplanes.

The difference is owing to the different types of training that airline pilots must undergo to fly these planes. They receive different aircraft-type rating licences for flying jet planes and non-jet planes.

What is the job outlook for airline pilots?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 14% job growth for airline pilots through 2030. The positive job outlook is because of a growing demand for airline pilots in the airline sector. The FAA regulations also require pilots to retire at age 65.

Due to this, major and regional airlines often have fewer pilots to operate their flights and must hire new people to fill in for the retiring pilots. To secure experienced candidates, airlines are willing to offer competitive pay packages and benefits.

What are the typical work hours of airline pilots?

Most airline pilots have variable work schedules, with new pilots having to remain on reserve status and be ready to fly at short notice.

Airline pilots often work around 100 hours per month. This is to prevent pilot fatigue that could lead to accidents. Apart from their flight hours, airline pilots may also put in up to 150 hours of other work-related duties every month. These can include the following tasks:

• Participating in simulator training
• Inspecting their aircraft before and after the flight
• Making sure that the fuel tank is full
• Checking weather conditions
• Maintaining accurate flight records
• Planning the flight and submitting these plans to air traffic control

Airline pilots often have overnight layovers between flights, and some portion of their time entails travelling back and forth from hotels to airports.

What educational credentials are necessary for airline pilots?

Airline pilots must have a bachelor’s degree in any discipline as well as a commercial pilot‘s license and an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, many airline pilots start as commercial pilots, the requirement for which is a high school diploma or a GCE.

They usually complete their flight training with an independent FAA-certified flight instructor or at a flight training school. After passing a medical examination, written exams and practical flight tests, they can earn a student pilot certificate, a private pilot license and an instrument rating. To earn a commercial pilot’s license, they must log a minimum of 500 flight hours and pass a written exam and flight test.

What are additional requirements?

There are some additional requirements and testing needed to become an airline pilot. The next step is earning a multi-engine rating, which also requires passing written and flight tests. They can then earn the ATP certificate after logging in over 1,500 flight hours and passing another written exam and flight test.

To qualify to fly for regional or major airlines, they will also need to get a degree. After obtaining the ATP certification, airline pilots must maintain it by undergoing medical tests and flight exams at regular intervals. Experienced military pilots can fly for regional or major airlines by switching over to civil aviation.

Do airline pilots receive on-the-job training?

As per Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), newly hired airline pilots must undergo a mandatory six to eight weeks of on-the-job training at a ground school. They can fly for the airlines only after they complete this training and earn the necessary rating for the aircraft that they fly for their employers

How to increase an airline pilot salary

To increase their salaries, airline pilots can take the following steps:

1. Wait for a raise per the payment schedule

Most airlines have an established pay schedule chart. Considering that fact, they increase the salaries of their airline pilots every year. New airline pilots can expect a big increase in salary after they’ve completed the mandatory one-year probationary period.

2. Get more flight experience

New airline pilots can expect a steady rise in their hourly wages as they log more flight hours. They make a significantly larger sum of money in their fifth year as an airline pilot than they did in the first. After five years, they may get an advanced position and higher pay as a first officer.

3. Become an airline captain

After gaining five to 15 years of flight experience, first officers can advance to becoming captains and earn a bigger salary. Along with the higher pay, captains have the primary responsibility for the flight, the crew and the passengers. This includes everyone’s safety as well as the functioning of the aircraft.

4. Work for major airlines

Major airlines typically pay airline pilots a higher hourly rate than regional airlines do, as they might have more frequent flights, so working for a major airline is often a helpful way to earn a higher paycheck.

You might still find higher salaries for regional airlines that hope to compete with the bigger ones, so consider reviewing your salary options with each. Regional airlines can also provide beneficial experiences for new airline pilots that they can use to eventually pursue roles with bigger companies.

The post How Much Do Airline Pilots Make in Every U.S. State? appeared first on The Standard News (Uganda).

Here’s a list of 13 global airline companies with operations in the United States you can pursue for employment:

1. Delta

Headquarters location: Atlanta

Size: More than 10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1928, Delta is one of the most prominent airlines in the industry, offering travel to all major U.S. airports and a diverse range of international locations.

Delta offers luxury and economy transportation options that offer reliable service, updated cabin features, and quality airport lounge access for their Delta One and SkyClub customers.

Delta is a member of SkyTeam, which includes many other partner airlines, like Air France, Virgin Atlantic and Air Europa. It’s also one of the most popular carriers in the U.S. that often flies to Bangkok, Dakar, Reykjavik, Accra, Copenhagen, Johannesburg, Prague and Stuttgart.

2. American Airlines

Headquarters location: Denver

Size: More than 10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1926, American Airlines is a top-earning airline and the largest employer among all airlines, offering an extensive network of domestic and international flights across over 350 destinations and 60 countries.

This airline company is also one of the founding members of the Oneworld Alliance, which is a global airline alliance, and the third-largest globally. American Airlines is a midrange choice for consumers, providing both affordable and luxury travel options.

3. United Airlines

Headquarters location: ChicagoSize: More than 10,000 employees.

Description: Founded in 1926, United Airlines is another leading airline throughout the world. They provide customers with both domestic and international networks that span 210 national mainland destinations and 120 international stations. 

United Airlines is one of the founding members of the Star Alliance, which is the largest airline alliance on the globe and has more than 25 airline members. The company operates its regional units as independent carriers, using United Express as the brand name.

4. JetBlue

Headquarters location: New York City

Size: More than 10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 2000, JetBlue is a low-cost, affordable airline. It’s another large U.S.-based airline, providing travel accommodations to over 90 locations in the U.S., South America, Central America and the Caribbean.

It has an alliance with American Airlines and has a code-share agreement with many other airlines. JetBlue aeroplanes provide customer-focused cabin features, and consumers can also sign up for award programmes with this airline. As a Fortune 500 company, JetBlue runs more than 1,000 daily flights.

5. Southwest Airlines

Headquarters location: Dallas

Size: More than 10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1967, Southwest is a large low-cost airline, providing service to 121 U.S. locations and 10 other countries. Southwest has the most domestic passenger flights than any other U.S.-based airline company, and it’s also the only legacy carrier that’s also low cost.

This airline is unique because it uses a point-to-point network and a rolling hub system to determine the routes of planes, improving the efficiency and flexibility of the airline. This allows it to provide its customers with free baggage checks and no change fees. It also employs Boeing 737 jets exclusively.

6. Alaska Airlines

Headquarters location: SeaTac, Washington

Size: More than 10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1932, Alaska Airlines provides flights out of Anchorage, Alaska, and has over 110 travel destinations between destinations like the U.S., Costa Rica, Belize, Canada and Mexico.

It’s in a partnership with SkyWest Airlines and Horizon Air. It operates an expansive regional and domestic network. Alaska Airlines has the designation of being an Oneworld Alliance member and has ranked highest for customer satisfaction 12 years in a row.

It also offers both premium and economy-class options, making it a midrange-cost travel solution.

7. Allegiant Travel Company

Headquarters location: Las Vegas

Size: 1,001–5,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1997, Allegiant Travel Company is a low-cost option that offers flights to over 120 destinations in the U.S. to large and small airports.

While it generally runs only a few times a week, the company offers other travel-focused products, like rental cars and hotel room bookings. Base airfare prices for this airline’s flights are often less than what you might pay with other domestic carriers.

The company’s airline service also goes by Allegiant Air.

8. Spirit Airlines

Headquarters location: Miramar, Florida

Size: More than 10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1980, Spirit Airlines is one of the most affordable low-cost carriers in the U.S., offering flights to the Caribbean, Mexico and South America.

Spirit Airlines has the designation of being a fast-growing North American passenger carrier and a leading ultra-low-cost carrier. This company can offer its cheap flight options through a unique unbundled system that allows customers to only pay for the services and travel features they want.

9. Sun Country Airlines

Headquarters location: Minneapolis

Size: 501–1,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1982, Sun Country Airlines is an ultra-low-cost cargo and passenger carrier. This airline provides services to many regional locations, including Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Within its fleet that operates over 90 different routes, the airline employs Boeing 737 Next Generation airplanes for both its passenger and cargo-based services.

10. Frontier Airlines

Headquarters location: Denver

Size: 1,001–5,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1994, Frontier Airlines is another ultra-low-cost carrier servicing more than 100 U.S. destinations and 31 international locations, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Guatemala and Mexico. For its flight operations, the airline employs an exclusive fleet of Airbus planes.

While it’s an affordable option for many customers, the seats don’t have television mounts, an intentional design choice to reduce the amount of weight on the plane. Passengers can also pay an additional cost to enjoy stretch rows, seating areas that provide full reclining seats, diamond stitching and lumbar support.

11. Hawaiian Airlines

Headquarters location: Honolulu

Size: 5,000–10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1929, Hawaiian Airlines is another commercial airline within the United States and provides flights between Hawaii, Asia, the mainland U.S., Australia, American Samoa, French Polynesia and New Zealand.

As one of the oldest passenger carriers in the U.S., it has the designation of having had no fatal crashes or hull losses throughout its entire operational history. This airline is also one of the highest-rated carriers in the U.S. They have a consistent track record with the fewest baggage handling problems and flight cancellations.

12. Avelo Airlines

Headquarters location: Houston

Size: 501–1,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1987, Avelo Airlines is an ultra-low-cost carrier with certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to perform both international and domestic flight operations.

The carrier has limited flight operations within the U.S., including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Utah. Currently, the carrier uses several Boeing 737 airplanes for its operations.

This airline has a few customer-centric benefits, like no change fees and smaller airports that allow passengers to save time and find their flight terminals more quickly.

13. Skywest Airlines

Headquarters location: St. George, Utah

Size: More than 10,000 employees

Description: Founded in 1972, Skywest Airlines is the largest regional airline, unique because it operates on behalf of its mainline partner companies, United Airlines, Delta, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines.

Operating more than 2,400 passenger flights every day, the company can cover over 240 cities within U.S., Mexico and Canada. The large network helps to connect routes between small-sized airports and large partner hubs. It’s also the largest independently owned airline in the North American region.

Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with The Standard

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Alongside the overall business class award, Qatar Airways took the top spot for Best Business Class Seat and Best Business Class Airline Lounge, with its Al Mourjan lounge in Doha recognised for excellence.

These awards further affirm Qatar Airways’ reputation for high service standards and innovation in luxury travel.

Expressing pride in the airline’s achievements, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer stated, “This is a proud Qatar Airways moment and it is my honour to share this award with my hardworking colleagues. This award is a testimony to our relentless dedication to providing unparalleled service and innovation. We look forward to more wins in the future.”

Top 10 Business Class Airlines of 2024

1. Qatar Airways
2. Singapore Airlines
3. ANA All Nippon Airways
4. Emirates
5. Cathay Pacific Airways
6. Hainan Airlines
7. Air France
8. Delta Air Lines
9. EVA Air
10. Turkish Airlines

Regional Highlights and Other Key Awards

In the category of Best Business Class Seats, Qatar Airways ranked first, with ANA All Nippon Airways and STARLUX Airlines closely following. Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan lounge in Doha also topped the list for Best Business Class Airline Lounges, with Singapore Airlines’ lounge at Changi Airport and Virgin Atlantic’s lounge at Heathrow Airport coming in second and third.

Regional Leaders in Business Class

Across the globe, regional leaders in business class were recognised, with notable winners including Ethiopian Airlines for Africa, Delta Air Lines for North America, and Air France for Europe. Below is a summary of the best business class airlines by region:

• Africa: Ethiopian Airlines
• Asia: Singapore Airlines
• Australia/Pacific: Qantas Airways
• China: Hainan Airlines
• Middle East: Qatar Airways
• Central Asia & CIS: Air Astana
• Europe: Air France
• North America: Delta Air Lines
• South America: LATAM
• Southern Europe: Turkish Airlines
• India/South Asia: Vistara

Awards for Onboard Catering and Lounge Dining

Turkish Airlines excelled in the Business Class Onboard Catering category, celebrated for its rich and diverse menu that reflects Turkish culinary traditions. CEO Bilal Ekşi remarked, “Receiving recognition for our business class catering excellence is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are committed to delivering an unmatched travel experience to our passengers and will continue to innovate and enhance our services.” Air Canada was awarded Best Business Class Lounge Dining for its Signature Suite in Toronto, praised for its premium Canadian-inspired cuisine.

Best Business Class Lounge Dining and Onboard Amenities

Air Canada’s Signature Suite in Toronto secured the award for Best Business Class Lounge Dining, while Hainan Airlines won Best Business Class Airline Onboard Amenities, known for its focus on innovative, passenger-friendly features. Hainan Airlines Chairman Zhu Tao expressed pride in the accomplishment, saying, “This recognition is not only for Hainan Airlines’ consistent efforts in product innovation but also for our staff who work tirelessly to improve passenger comfort and provide an eco-friendly travel experience.”

Top 10 Rankings for Business Class Onboard Catering 2024

1. Turkish Airlines
2. Qatar Airways
3. Singapore Airlines
4. Hainan Airlines
5. ANA All Nippon Airways
6. Emirates
7. Air France
8. EVA Air
9. Oman Air
10. Saudia

With airlines continuously enhancing the business class experience, these awards celebrate excellence across seating comfort, lounge facilities, catering, and onboard amenities, underscoring the dedication of global airlines to providing an elevated journey for business travellers.

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The annual awards, widely regarded as the benchmark for quality in the airline industry, are based on millions of votes from travellers worldwide.

Lavinia Lau, Cathay Pacific’s Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, expressed her gratitude to customers, emphasizing the airline’s recent achievements: “Moving up from 8th to 5th in the World’s Best Airline rankings this year is a powerful vote of confidence from our customers. We are grateful for their loyalty and support during our rebuild journey. Regaining a top-five position, in addition to winning the World’s Best Economy Class Airline, is a significant milestone that drives us to push even harder to exceed customer expectations. There is still more to come, and we won’t stop until we reach the top spot.”

World’s Best Economy Class Airlines of 2024

1. Cathay Pacific Airways
2. Qatar Airways
3. Singapore Airlines
4. Japan Airlines
5. EVA Air
6. ANA All Nippon Airways
7. Emirates
8. Hainan Airlines
9. Turkish Airlines
10. Saudia

Cathay Pacific’s notable rise reflects its investments in customer service and enhanced amenities, especially in the economy class segment.

Best Economy Class Airline Seats 2024

Japan Airlines leads in seat comfort with its spacious and well-designed economy-class seats, followed by Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines. Japan Airlines’ award-winning seats have been lauded for their ergonomic design and passenger comfort.

1. Japan Airlines
2. Cathay Pacific Airways
3. Korean Air
4. Qatar Airways
5. Singapore Airlines
6. ANA All Nippon Airways
7. Emirates
8. Saudia
9. EVA Air
10. Turkish Airlines

Best Economy Class Airline Catering 2024

In catering, Saudia captured the top spot, praised for its authentic and diverse onboard cuisine, followed closely by Cathay Pacific and Turkish Airlines. Skytrax highlighted Saudia’s ability to blend traditional Middle Eastern flavours with international options, making meals a memorable part of the flight experience.

1. Saudia
2. Cathay Pacific Airways
3. Turkish Airlines
4. Qatar Airways
5. Singapore Airlines
6. Emirates
7. Hainan Airlines
8. EVA Air
9. Japan Airlines
10. Delta Air Lines

Best Economy Class Airlines by Region 2024

• Africa: Ethiopian Airlines
• Asia: Cathay Pacific Airways
• Australia/Pacific: Fiji Airways
• China: Hainan Airlines
• Central Asia & CIS: Air Astana
• Europe: Turkish Airlines
• India & South Asia: Vistara
• Middle East: Qatar Airways
• North America: Delta Air Lines
• South America: LATAM

Best Economy Class Onboard Catering by Region 2024

In addition to overall experience, Skytrax awarded airlines for exceptional onboard catering, a critical aspect for passenger satisfaction in economy class. Saudia earned top marks in the Middle East, while Turkish Airlines was recognized in Europe. Cathay Pacific led in Asia, underscoring its commitment to high-quality cuisine and service.

• Africa: Ethiopian Airlines
• Australia/Pacific: Qantas Airways
• Asia: Cathay Pacific Airways
• China: Hainan Airlines
• India & South Asia: Vistara
• Central Asia & CIS: Air Astana
• Middle East: Saudia
• Europe: Turkish Airlines
• North America: Delta Air Lines
• South America: LATAM

These awards reflect the dedication of airlines worldwide to enhancing economy-class service, offering travellers across continents an upgraded experience in comfort, food, and hospitality. As global travel demands rise, these airlines continue to set new benchmarks for excellence in the economy segment.

Rising Global Standards in Economy Class

The Skytrax World Airline Awards continue to set high standards in the industry, with airlines competing to deliver excellence in comfort, service, and cuisine.

This year’s rankings reflect a strong commitment to elevating the passenger experience across the economy class, as airlines recognise the importance of high-quality offerings in attracting and retaining loyal travellers.

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These rankings are based on millions of votes and feedback from passengers who assessed various aspects of their flying experience, from in-flight service and comfort to punctuality and innovation.

Here are the World’s Best Airlines

1. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is the national airline of the State of Qatar. Based in Doha, the Airline’s trendsetting onboard product focuses on comfort, fine cuisine, the latest in-flight audio and video entertainment, award-winning service, and a modern aircraft fleet averaging around 5 years of age.

Qatar Airways serves more than 150 key business and leisure destinations worldwide, with a fleet of over 200 aircraft. The airline flies to Australia, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, North America, and South America.

2. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines success has been fuelled by its dedication to customer service. In-flight menus in all classes of service offer gourmet meals created by a panel of internationally renowned chefs, and all customers can enjoy the carrier’s state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system, which offers a wide choice of movies, music and games.

Together with its budget carrier arm, Scoot, Singapore Airlines operates a fleet of more than 180 aircrafts, with a combined passenger network that spans more than 110 destinations.

3. Emirates

Emirates connects the world to, and through, their global hub in Dubai. They operate modern, efficient and comfortable aircraft, and their culturally diverse workforce delivers award-winning services to their customers across six continents every day.

Emirates current fleet comprises 262 aircraft, with the airline serving 152 destinations.

4. ANA All Nippon Airways

ANA was founded in 1952 with two helicopters and has become the largest airline in Japan, as well as one of the most significant airlines in Asia, operating 82 international routes and 118 domestic routes.

ANA offers a unique dual hub model which enables passengers to travel to Tokyo and connect through the two airports in the metropolitan Tokyo, Narita and Haneda, to various destinations throughout Japan, and also offers same day connections between various North American, Asian and Chinese cities. ANA has been a member of Star Alliance since 1999.

5. Cathay Pacific Airways

The Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Group offers scheduled passenger and cargo services to over 200 destinations in Asia, North America, Australia, Europe and Africa, using a fleet of close to 200 aircraft. Cathay Pacific is a founder member of the oneworld global alliance.

6. Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines as founded in 1951 and has a modern fleet of more than 230 aircraft. It is one of the world’s premier carriers and joined the oneworld Alliance in 2007.

With four major hubs in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Okinawa, Japan Airlines serves 95 destinations across 20 territories.

An airline with a rich history and a reputation for defining the essence of traditional Japanese hospitality, JAL is committed to providing guests with the highest levels of flight safety and supreme quality in every aspect of its service.

7. Turkish Airlines

Founded in 1933 with a modest fleet of 5 aircraft, Star Alliance member Turkish Airlines is an airline company that flies to more than 300 destinations in the world with a fleet of more than 300 (passenger and cargo) aircraft.

Turkish Airlines proudly carry the Turkish flag across the globe, opening doors to the wider world for its passengers. Turkish Airlines uses the statement “We fly to more countries than any other airline in the world”.

8. EVA Air

EVA Air was established in 1989, and is a member of Star Alliance. EVA serves a global network that connects Asia and Mainland China to Europe, North America and Oceania and links more than 60 major business and tourist destinations. EVA operates from their hub at Taoyuan International Airport in Taiwan.

9. Air France

Air France turns the flight into a moment of real pleasure in all its daily operations. Air France operates 1,500 daily flights in France, Europe and worldwide. Since 2004, Air France and KLM have formed one of the leading European groups in the air-transport sector.

From their hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol, the Air France-KLM Group offers its customers access to a network covering 312 destinations in 116 countries.

10. Swiss International Air Lines

SWISS is Switzerland’s largest airline. It operates direct flights from Zurich and Geneva to keep Switzerland connected with Europe and the world. SWISS is part of the Lufthansa Group and is also a member of Star Alliance, the world’s biggest airline network.

The company plans to halve its 2019 net carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and make its business and operations entirely carbon-neutral by 2050.

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