"To be named among the twenty-five best in the world, airlines must obtain a seven-star safety rating and demonstrate leadership in innovation for passenger comfort", explains TAP, in a statement sent to the newsrooms.

TAP reveals that AirlineRatings.com editors, "some of the most experienced and awarded in the world, seek a consistent level of service, innovation and involvement of the staff of each of the main potential candidates to integrate the TOP25".

The airline also explains that the website in question was "developed to provide all interested parties, anywhere in the world, with a single place to obtain all information related to airlines, and is formed by a team of aviation editors, who thoroughly researched almost every airline in the world".

"We are focused on leadership and airlines that innovate to make a real difference to the passenger experience," says AirlineRatings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas, quoted in the same release.