Porter Airlines Named North America’s Best Regional Airline by Skytrax
Porter Airlines has once again claimed top honors at the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards, being named the Best Regional Airline in North America for 2025. This marks the second consecutive year the Toronto-based carrier has received this distinction, reinforcing its growing reputation for delivering an exceptional travel experience in the competitive regional aviation market.
The Skytrax World Airline Awards, widely regarded as the “Oscars of the aviation industry,” are based on the world’s largest annual airline passenger satisfaction survey. The 2025 awards drew participation from travelers across more than 100 countries, who voted on a broad range of criteria covering airline service, product quality, and overall customer experience. This year’s awards ceremony took place at the Paris Air Show, where global airlines were honored for their outstanding contributions to the passenger journey.
A Distinctive Regional Experience
Porter Airlines has consistently differentiated itself through a customer-centric service model that challenges traditional perceptions of economy-class travel. Known for its thoughtful and premium touches, Porter offers passengers no middle seats, complimentary beer and wine served in real glassware, free premium snacks, and free, high-speed Wi-Fi streaming access for all travelers. These features, combined with attentive service and a modern fleet, have made Porter a favorite among travelers seeking comfort and quality in short- and medium-haul flights.
Commenting on the award, Michael Deluce, President and CEO of Porter Airlines, expressed pride in the team’s achievement and emphasized the airline’s values:
“Porter has been redefining what it means to fly economy across North America. We’re known for our elevated experience, but it is our delivery of service that truly sets us apart. We treat our passengers with dignity and respect—because that is how they deserve to be treated. It’s why we often hear that passengers ‘love’ Porter. This prestigious recognition is a reflection of how our entire team delivers award-winning service—something that cannot be replicated.”
Growing Presence Across North America
Since its founding in 2006, Porter has been on a steady growth trajectory. The last two years have been particularly transformative for the airline as it undertakes an ambitious expansion strategy, adding new aircraft, destinations, and personnel to support its growing operations.
Key developments over the past 24 months include:
- More than 2,500 new employees hired across various departments, including flight crews, operations, and customer service.
- Delivery of 44 new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, which support longer-range and more fuel-efficient operations.
- Expansion of the total fleet to 73 aircraft, comprising 44 E195-E2s and 29 De Havilland Dash 8-400 turboprops.
- Dozens of new routes introduced to connect underserved markets and enhance regional connectivity.
Today, Porter operates 64 routes across 37 destinations, serving every Canadian province and expanding its reach into key U.S. cities. The airline’s footprint now stretches from Victoria, British Columbia to St. John’s, Newfoundland, reflecting a truly coast-to-coast presence. In the U.S., Porter is quickly establishing itself in major travel hubs including Florida, California, and New York, aiming to bridge regional travel gaps with its elevated service offering.
Recognition for Consistent Quality
Skytrax CEO Edward Plaisted applauded Porter’s achievement, noting the airline’s standout performance in a highly competitive segment:
“We are delighted to see Porter Airlines win the award as the Best Regional Airline in North America at the 2025 World Airline Awards. This recognition reflects the appreciation travelers have for the comfort, presentation, and personal touch Porter brings to its flights. The airline’s distinct service culture continues to set it apart.”
This award comes alongside another impressive accolade for the carrier: Porter remains one of only three North American airlines to earn the Official 4-Star Rating from Skytrax. This rating signifies excellence across all aspects of service delivery—from in-flight offerings to ground operations—and is awarded to airlines that demonstrate consistent and measurable quality performance.
Embraer E195-E2: A Catalyst for Growth
Porter’s strategic investment in the Embraer E195-E2 aircraft is central to its expansion ambitions. The aircraft’s extended range and fuel efficiency have enabled the airline to extend its network deeper into the U.S. and Western Canada. Additionally, the aircraft’s cabin configuration supports Porter’s commitment to a comfortable, all-economy seating model without middle seats, enhancing the passenger experience while maintaining operational efficiency.
By deploying the E195-E2, Porter is now capable of serving high-demand routes previously out of reach for its Dash 8 fleet. These jets also align with the airline’s focus on sustainability, offering significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to older-generation aircraft.
Reimagining Regional Air Travel
Porter’s success lies not only in its rapid growth or fleet modernization but also in its consistent execution of a vision that prioritizes dignity, hospitality, and accessibility in air travel. In a market often dominated by cost-cutting and bare-bones offerings, Porter’s approach to regional aviation is refreshingly different—investing in meaningful passenger amenities without charging extra for the basics.
This focus on quality without compromise is resonating with travelers and industry observers alike. In an era where customer expectations are evolving rapidly, Porter’s model stands out as a blueprint for how regional carriers can remain competitive while elevating service standards.
As Porter Airlines continues to grow its fleet, route map, and workforce, the airline is poised to further enhance its standing in North America’s aviation landscape. With the foundation of its award-winning service already firmly established, the coming years will likely see even greater innovation and expansion.
For travelers seeking an alternative to the traditional economy experience, Porter offers a compelling proposition: regional air travel that feels anything but regional—delivering comfort, convenience, and care from check-in to landing.