TORONTO — Both Air Canada and WestJet have been recognized by AirlineRatings.com, an airline safety and product rating agency that promotes excellence in the industry. The website rates more than 425 airlines around the globe to determine its award winners.

Air Canada was named the Best Long Haul Airline in the Americas for 2018. AirlineRatings.com gives Air Canada its top seven-star rating for both safety and product.

“Air Canada’s strategic focus has been on long-haul, international flying through our expanded global network and this recognition by the well-respected AirlineRatings.com is welcome affirmation of our success,” said Benjamin Smith, President, Passenger Airlines at Air Canada. “The rating is based on a thorough evaluation of criteria that are priorities for Air Canada, including safety, fleet, onboard service and products, environmental stewardship, innovation and profitability.”

The ranking is also a recognition of the dedication of Air Canada’s 30,000 employees “who work hard every day taking care of our customers, transporting them safely and comfortably to more than 200 destinations around the world,” added Smith.

WestJet was named Best Low-Cost Airline – The Americas for 2018 by airlineratings.com.

“It is an honour to be named Best Low-Cost Airline for the whole of North and South America,” said Ed Sims, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Commercial. “This is a reflection of the hard work and caring nature of our more than 13,000 WestJetters. The timing on this award is welcome as we begin to build our international reputation in preparation for the arrival of our Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in 2019.”

AirlineRatings.com’s Editor-in-Chief, Geoffrey Thomas, says WestJet was selected on its innovation of bringing affordable and safe travel to millions of passengers across North America. “In addition, WestJet’s employees have brought back the magic of flying to its guests.”