This has been the question on many travellers’ lips over the past few years and now, we are left wondering no more. Because they’re back, baby.

These days, we have been much more likely to hear about the extravagant mile-high offerings of Middle Eastern airlines such as Emirates and Etihad. But behind the scenes, Singapore Airlines has been investing in revamping its offering — and it’s beginning to pay off.

Now, the golden oldie has truly taken back its crown, being named the world’s best airline by TripAdvisor.

Air New Zealand came in at second spot on the top 10 list, followed by Emirates. There were also some lesser-known airlines that made the cut such as UK budget carrier Jet2 and the Hello Kitty themed airline EVA Air.

Singapore Airlines: New cabins will make it hard to fly economy again

As well as taking the top spot for being the best airline, Singapore Airlines also scored an award for the best first class and economy class. Qatar Airways scored the best business class, and Air New Zealand won best premium economy.

“We are honoured to be this year’s recipient of the Best Airline in the World,” said Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong.

“The award is a validation of the hard work and dedication of our thousands of staff all around the world, who focus their attention every day on ensuring that Singapore Airlines remains competitive on a global level.

“Our business model is based around three main pillars: product leadership, service excellence and network connectivity. We are continuing to invest heavily in all three areas to ensure we have industry-leading offerings that meet and exceed our customers’ expectations, both on the ground and in the air.”

The winners were determined by an algorithm that factored into account the quantity and quality of airline reviews and ratings globally over a 12-month period. It’s only the second time TripAdvisor has released such a list.

No Australian airline made the list, but Qantas was ranked Australia’s best airline. However, when it comes to the South Pacific region, it was beaten by Air New Zealand.

Qantas: What it’s like to fly first class on Australia’s best airline

Top 10 airlines in the world — including quotes from TripAdvisor reviewers

1. Singapore Airlines, Singapore

“I flew from Sydney to Singapore in business class. The food was the best I have had in the last 10 years. Service was great and the staff actually wanted to be there. One of the best, if not the best airline.”

2. Air New Zealand, New Zealand

“The flight attendants are friendly, courteous, professional, and dedicated to customer service. The dinner was excellent, even in economy class, and there was complimentary NZ red and white wine. Even the safety videos are entertaining. I wouldn’t fly any other airline between the US and New Zealand.”

3. Emirates, United Arab Emirates

“This airline is the essence of style, class and comfort. Everything I had expected was surpassed. From their presentation, to their service, which is professional, but does not override their personable approach to travellers. The Airbus is huge, but the atmosphere within is comfortable, seats are wider, windows are bigger.”

4. Japan Airlines, Japan

“This airline carrier is exquisite and features great on-board meal service, drink service, and the entertainment is great. They provide excellent service with exceptional leg room. This airline is truly above most others and comes with outstanding crew members.”

5. EVA Air, Taiwan

“One of the things that separates EVA out from other airlines is in the little things. I was blown away by the novelty of the ‘character’ flight we took. Everything from the pillows to the meals — it was Hello Kitty cuteness overload. Kids’ meals are excellent. These small personal touches made our entire flight experience so much nicer!”

6. Southwest Airlines, United States

“We choose to fly Southwest whenever we can. Their flights are on time and the service is friendly and efficient. We don’t mind not having assigned seats. Bags fly free, and we always check ours. Frequent Flyer miles are easy to accumulate with their membership program.”

7. Jet2.com, United Kingdom

“We have just come back from Portugal and all I can say is what a fab service from Jet2. From start to finish, they made my holiday less stressful. I have never been with them before and can certainly say they’re better than most other companies I have been with.”

8. Qatar Airways, Qatar

“I’ve travelled a lot in my life and Qatar is one of my favourite airlines to travel with. The bar in A380 (business class) is the best. The service regardless of class is fab. The treatment of frequent flyers is great ... food very tasty for economy ... and very big portions … Entertainment is top notch. They are one of my favourite airlines for eco travel.”

9. Azul, Brazil

“Azul is a lovely airline, employing a fleet of Embraer regional jets offering two plus two seating. Service is efficient and you always get a package of “aviõezinhos” (aeroplane shaped gummy bears) to chew on the short domestic hops.”

10. Korean Air, South Korea

“We travelled from Chicago to Hong Kong with our toddler, and could not have been more pleased with the experience. Basic economy on KA is basically economy plus on other (especially US-based) airlines. The flight staff actually made me like the experience, rather than detract from it. I’ll be flying KA whenever possible in the future.”