Australia’s aviation industry is more than just a means of transportation; it is a lifeline that connects the diverse areas of the country. Airlines in Australia play a crucial role in bridging the distance, making air travel important. In this article, we’ll dive into the Top 10 Australian Airlines as rated by the World Airline Awards by SkyTrax. These top 10 Australian airlines showcase the diversity and connectivity of Australia’s aviation industry.

10. Air Niugini

Photo by Alec Wilson

Air Niugini, the national airline of Papua New Guinea, is based in Port Moresby. For the people of Papua New Guinea, Air Niugini represents more than just an airline, as it has played a crucial role in connecting the diverse and remote parts of Papua New Guinea with each other and the world. In 1973, Air Niugini took flight with a vision to connect this beautiful nation to itself and to the world.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Boeing 737-8003
Boeing 767-300ER3
Fokker 706
Bombardier Dash-8-4003
Fokker 1007
Total22

9. Air Tahiti

Photo by FRED

Air Tahiti, the primary inter-island airline in French Polynesia has been providing air transport between Tahiti and the islands for over 65 years. It offers a unique travel experience and unforgettable Polynesian hospitality. Air Tahiti embodies the essential connection between the islands of French Polynesia and among people.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
ART 42-6002
ART 72-60010
Beechcraft King Air B2003
de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter1
Total16

8. Air Tahiti Nui

Photo by New York-air

Air Tahiti Nui connects Tahiti with the rest of the world. The enchanting scent of the Tiare flower offered to passengers, and “Maeva,” the Tahitian word for “welcome,” means that the spirit of Polynesia welcomes you for a unique journey. The airline currently operates Boeing Dreamliners alone.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Boeing 787-94
Total4

7. QantasLink

Photo by Montague Smith

QantasLink is the regional airline for the Qantas Group; operating over 2,000 flights weekly to a vast network of destinations across Australia.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A220-3004
Airbus A319-1005
Airbus A320-20015
Boeing 717-2001
De Havilland Canada Dash 8-2003
De Havilland Canada Dash 8-30016
De Havilland Canada Dash 8-40031
Fokker 10015
Total90

6. Jetstar Airways

Photo by Terence Ong

Jetstar Airways is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia. It operates an extensive domestic network in addition to regional and international services from Melbourne Airport. Jetstar Airways is a low-cost airline as it provides affordable options while maintaining high service quality.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A320-20050
Airbus A320neo1
Airbus A321-2006
Airbus A321LR18
Boeing 787-811
Total86

5. Virgin Australia

Photo by Mehdi Nazarinia

Virgin Australia is an Australian airline, formerly known as Virgin Blue. Each aircraft in Virgin Australia houses some of the most advanced avionics in history, efficient engines and lighter structures, which make better use of fuel and in return produce lower emissions.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A320-2007
Boeing 737-7009
Boeing 737 MAX 88
Boeing 737-80075
Fokker 1003
Total102

4. Rex Airlines

Photo by Bidgee

Based in Mascot, New South Wales, Rex is an Australian regional airline whose tagline, “Our Heart is in the Country”, depicts its mission to ensure that all Australians, particularly those living in regional communities, have access to affordable air travel.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Saab 34057
Total57

3. Qantas Airways

Photo by Bahnfrend

Qantas Airways has its hubs in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth, making it Australia’s largest domestic and international airline. It is widely regarded as the world’s leading long-distance airline and operates the largest network of any Australian airline, flying to more than 700 destinations in over 130 countries.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A330-20016
Airbus A330-30010
Airbus A380-80010
Boeing 737-80075
Boeing 787-914
Total125

2. Air New Zealand

Photo by Eric Salard

Air New Zealand is the flag carrier of New Zealand based in Auckland. It operates a global network that provides air passenger and cargo services to, from, and within New Zealand. At Air New Zealand, their driving purpose is to enrich their country by connecting New Zealanders to one another, and the country to the world.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A320-20017
Airbus A320neo6
Airbus A321neo12
Boeing 777-300ER10
ATR 72-60029
Boeing 787-914
De Havilland Canada Dash 8-30023
Total111

1. Fiji Airways

Photo by Eric Salard

The flag carrier of Fiji is Fiji Airways, one of Australia’s leading airlines (formerly Air Pacific). Fiji Airways is well-known for its colorful aircraft livery, which incorporates traditional Fijian motifs that represent a sense of direction, determination, and belonging.

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A330-2003
Airbus A330-3001
Airbus A350-9004
Boeing 737-8001
Boeing 737 MAX 86
Total15

Have you ever traveled with any of these top 10 Australian airlines? Share your thoughts, memorable experiences, or even tips for fellow travelers in the comments below.

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