The 2016 World Airline Awards  were released last month by survey firm Skytrax, and the top pick for World’s Best Airline went to Dubai-based carrier Emirates. The airline improved from fifth place last year, overtaking rival Qatar Airways. There are plenty awards like this out there, but Skytrax’s results are considered the gold standard because they’re based on extensive surveying of passengers worldwide. “We listen carefully to our customers, and then relentlessly challenge ourselves to deliver and exceed expectations,” said Tim Clark, president, Emirates. “The fact that these awards are based on the direct feedback from passengers is gratifying and wonderful recognition for all of the hard work that’s gone into creating the Emirates experience.” Skytrax also gives awards in specific categories in addition to the overall rankings. Emirates won an award for World’s Best In-Flight Entertainment, and also ranked high in the first-, business- and economy-class cabin awards. Norwegian was named the World’s Best Long-Haul Low-Cost Carrier as well as Europe’s Best Low-Cost Airline. AirAsia took home top prize for World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, marking the eighth consecutive year the Malaysian carrier won that category. Virgin America was named North America’s Best Airline. The carrier, recently bought by Alaska Airlines, actually won all major categories for the continent, including Best Airline, Best Low-Cost Airline and Best Airline Staff.