By Airline Ratings
Published Tue Oct 28 2025
HK Express has become the first low-cost airline to earn the prestigious 7-Star PLUS safety rating from AirlineRatings – the highest accolade in its internationally respected safety ranking system.
On top of being already a 7-Star airline for maintaining the highest operational and regulatory safety standards at all times, the new initiative introduces a comprehensive 70 point onboard safety audit that brings the “face of safety” directly into the cabin where passengers experience it most.
CEO of AirlineRatings.com, Sharon Petersen, said: “Already awarded as the World’s Safest Low Cost Airline of 2025, this latest 7-Star PLUS rating sets a new benchmark in the industry, proving once again that low-cost doesn’t mean low-quality and that carriers in this category can lead in safety excellence.
“To further demonstrate that low-cost doesn’t mean cutting corners when it comes to safety, our onboard safety audit, comprising 70 audit points, is identical for both full-service and low-cost airlines. Today’s result, and those of other low cost airlines to come, further helps to dispel the misconception that there is a difference in safety standards between low-cost and full-service operations.
“As travellers increasingly seek value without compromise, HK Express’s achievement should inspire other airlines in the low-cost sector to participate in these valuable audits, swiftly address any identified gaps, and demonstrate transparency and customer confidence by opening their operations to external review. These assessments not only highlight areas for improvement but also celebrate and acknowledge those who excel in the critical area of onboard safety. We are delighted to award HK Express our highest accolade and applaud them on today’s results.”
Josh Wood Safety and Service Quality Manager, Airline Ratings, said: “HK Express has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to safety and operational excellence across all phases of flight. The professionalism and discipline of the cabin crew were exemplary throughout the audit, reflecting a strong internal culture and strict adherence to international best practice. The 7- Star PLUS Safety Award recognises not only their compliance, but their proactive approach to maintaining the highest possible safety and guest experience standards at all times.”
READ: The Low Cost Carrier You Actually Want To Fly
Jeanette Mao, CEO of HK Express said: “Safety is the foundation of HK Express’ strategy and operations. As the first low-cost carrier to earn AirlineRatings’ 7-star PLUS recognition, we see this as validation of our safety culture and our relentless pursuit of operational excellence, enabling reliable and affordable air travel at scale. We are deeply honoured to receive this rating, a testament to the devotion and professionalism of our team – across frontline and corporate teams – in upholding the highest operational standards.
“Achieving the 7-Star PLUS rating, after 12 years of maintaining a 7-Star safety rating since 2013, underscores our unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. We will continue to deliver safe, reliable, and affordable air services to our customers- never resting on our laurels.”
What Is the 7- Star PLUS Rating?
The 7-Star PLUS rating is awarded to airlines that:
• Already hold a 7-Star safety rating which is determined by participation in IOSA, audits from local governing bodies as well as the airline’s own safety or incident history.
• Successfully complete six anonymous onboard audits across a mix of domestic, international, short-haul, long-haul, day, and overnight flights.
• Demonstrate consistent excellence across all 70 audit points across each of the six audit flights.
These audits are conducted by Airline Ratings’ own team, independent of airline influence, and designed to reflect real-world passenger experiences.
Why It Matters
With nearly 40% of passengers reporting anxiety or fear of flying, 7-Star PLUS provides a new level of reassurance. While traditional safety metrics focus on aircraft maintenance, operational excellence and regulatory compliance, this new rating highlights the human element specifically how safety is communicated, enacted, and felt onboard.
Airlines not yet at 7-Stars can still undergo reviews, receiving tailored feedback to help close safety gaps and improve their standing.
This initiative complements AirlineRatings mission: “Guiding you to the safest and best value airline for every journey.”
For enquiries on participating in Airline Ratings safety ratings, please contact Safety and Quality Manager Josh Wood at [email protected].
