Oman Air has been named among the world’s leading airlines after winning the 2026 APEX WORLD CLASS™ award, the second year in a row the carrier has secured the accolade.
The award, accredited by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), is considered the highest benchmark in the aviation industry, recognising excellence across the entire passenger journey. Airlines are assessed across a range of factors including comfort, personal attention, cuisine, and presentation.
The announcement was made during the APEX Global Expo in California, United States, where the award was received on behalf of Oman Air by Renata Rached, the airline’s Vice President of Guest Experience, Loyalty & Brand.
“We are deeply honoured to receive the 2026 APEX WORLD CLASS™ award for the second year in a row,” said Rached. “This recognition reaffirms our mission to deliver a journey that blends the highest standards of service excellence with heartfelt Omani hospitality. It’s a tribute to every member of our team, whose dedication ensures that Oman Air continues to stand among the world’s most respected airlines.”
She added that while the award celebrates past success, it also motivates the airline to further enhance its guest experience in the years ahead.
Rigorous assessment
To earn the distinction, airlines must undergo a comprehensive audit spanning 20 key dimensions of the passenger experience. These include brand integrity, engagement, hospitality, personalisation, comfort, connectivity, and the execution of food and beverage offerings — including both presentation and taste.
The process is overseen by guest experience consultancy YATES+, with audits peer-reviewed and validated by industry experts and the APEX governing board.
According to APEX, the award highlights airlines that not only excel in service but also demonstrate a commitment to innovation, consistency, and cultural authenticity.
Continuous improvement
Since winning the award in 2025, Oman Air has continued to strengthen its guest service strategy. Among its initiatives is the introduction of a Net Promoter Score (NPS) system, a feedback mechanism that tracks passenger satisfaction across every stage of the journey. The system allows the airline to identify areas for improvement in real time, reinforcing its commitment to a passenger-centred approach.
Earlier this year, the carrier also won regional recognition at the APEX 2025 Awards, where it received titles for Best Food & Beverage and Best Cabin Service in the Middle East.
Hospitality with heritage
Industry observers note that Oman Air has sought to distinguish itself by blending global standards with authentic Omani hospitality. The airline’s service design emphasises cultural touches — from cuisine inspired by local traditions to warm, personalised care — while also investing in modern comforts such as connectivity and cabin design.
The consecutive wins cement Oman Air’s position among the elite group of global carriers recognised by APEX as world-class. For travellers, it signals that the airline is delivering at the highest level of service consistency and innovation in an increasingly competitive aviation market.
