By Airline Ratings
Published Tue Dec 09 2025
STARLUX Airlines has today been awarded as the third airline to achieve the 7-Star PLUS safety rating by AirlineRatings – the highest accolade in its internationally respected safety ranking system.
CEO of AirlineRatings, Sharon Petersen, said, “As a smaller, lesser-known airline on the global stage, STARLUX was an operator we were keen to understand better. What we discovered, however, far exceeded our expectations. Our time with the airline — including the onboard safety audit — revealed not only safety standards that surpass industry norms, but also a truly premium product capable of competing with the world’s largest full-service carriers.
The opportunity to conduct an onboard safety audit was a genuine privilege for us and highlighted an airline operating with exceptional professionalism and an impressive commitment to safety.
We are delighted to confirm that STARLUX has joined a very elite group of airlines now carrying the prestigious Seven-Star PLUS Safety Rating.”
Josh Wood, Safety and Service Quality Manager at AirlineRatings, commented, “The consistency of onboard safety compliance across the audited flights has, in my view, set an international benchmark. Whilst STARLUX is a premium airline with a focus on quality touches, safety came first every time - which is exactly what we want to see.
Of particular note was the way cabin crew didn’t simply tell passengers what to do, but explained why. For example: ‘Please stow your TV screen in case we need to evacuate quickly.’ This not only enhances cabin safety but educates passengers at the same time.
I am delighted today to confirm STARLUX as a Seven-Star PLUS safety-rated airline, and I congratulate everyone at the airline who plays a part in making this an exceptional, safety-focused operation.”
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].
