Delta Air Lines remains the world’s most valuable airline brand, but it may have some competition from downunder as Qantas’ brand value soars.
Brand Finance’s Airlines 50 2026 report shows that QF has made significant progress in regard to its reputation, after facing legal head winds in previous years, including the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission taking the carrier to court in 2023 for advertising tickets for cancelled flights.
QF has moved up the ranking from 32nd in Brand Finance’s Airlines 50 2023 to 13th in the 2026 version, with its brand value up 24% year-on-year to USD3.2 billion. It has also risen seven places to become the seventh strongest brand globally receiving a BSI score of 86.6/100 and an AAA brand strength rating.
Mark Crowe, QF md brand finance says QF has made meaningful progress in rebuilding consumer confidence through improved ser vice quality, stronger operational performance, and strategic investment across its network.
“Its return to growth in both brand value and brand strength high lights the resilience of the brand and reinforces the importance of sustained trust in driving long-term commercial success,” Crowe adds.
. . . The Rankings
DL retains its position as the world’s most valuable airline brand, with its brand value up 25% to USD18.605 billion, followed by United with a value of USD13.083 billion, and Emirates, valued at USD10.635 billion.
American Airlines and Southwest Airlines were fourth and fifth for value, with British Airways, Qatar Airways, China Southern, Air Canda and Lufthansa rounding out the top 10.
Vietjet is the fastest-growing airline brand in 2026, with its brand value soaring some 117% to USD906 million.
ANA was named the strongest airline brand in the world, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 90.2/100 and an AAA+ rating, taking the title from Southwest, now second with a BSI of 89.1/100 and a AAA brand strength rating.
Japan Airlines was the third strongest airline brand in the world, with a BSI score of 89.1/100 and a AAA brand strength rating. See the full report HERE.
