Cathay Pacific earns first-ever 7-Star PLUS Safety Rating

A new benchmark in onboard safety

AirlineRatings CEO Sharon Petersen said the enhanced rating represents “a major evolution” in how airline safety is assessed. “For many years, our 7-Star Safety Ratings have guided millions of travelers when choosing airlines for value and safety,” she explained. “Now, we’re taking this a step further by evaluating onboard safety.”

The new audit measures 70 criteria across six flights. It covers short- and long-haul, day and overnight operations to provide an independent and in-depth assessment of each airline’s cabin safety performance. “It enables airlines to quickly address any gaps, while celebrating those that excel,” Petersen added.

She noted that inflight safety challenges such as turbulence and lithium battery incidents are on the increase. Such events underscores the importance of onboard vigilance. “We are delighted to confirm Cathay Pacific as our first 7-Star PLUS-rated full-service airline,” she said.

What makes the 7-Star PLUS different from other ratings

Alex McGowan, Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer at Cathay Pacific, said the recognition reflects the airline’s unwavering culture of safety.

“Safety guides everything we do,” McGowan said. “It’s a commitment to our people, customers, and partners to ensure every journey is safe, secure, and enjoyable. We’re grateful for this recognition and will continue to look for ways to improve.”

To qualify, airlines must:

Already hold a 7-Star rating under IOSA and regulatory criteria.

Undergo six anonymous onboard audits across varied routes.

Achieve excellence across all 70 measurable points.

Conducted independently by AirlineRatings’ auditors, the program reflects real-world passenger experiences and aims to reassure travelers. Nearly 40% of whom report fear of flying feel that their safety is in trusted hands. This initiative reinforces AirlineRatings’ mission: “Guiding you to the safest and best value airline for every journey.”