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APEX/IFSA Awards Recognize Innovation and Excellence in Passenger Experience

APEX/IFSA Awards Recognize Innovation and Excellence in Passenger Experience
The annual APEX/IFSA Awards ceremony took place on Thursday, September 11, in Long Beach, California, as part of the APEX/IFSA Global Expo. The event celebrated the latest advancements in airline passenger experience, with finalists presenting their entries earlier in the week to a distinguished panel of judges, including representatives from Inflight. The competition showcased a dynamic field driven by innovation and a strong focus on customer-centric strategies.
Highlights of the 2026 APEX Innovation Awards
Air Canada received the award for Best Inflight Connectivity, recognized for its complimentary onboard Wi-Fi service sponsored by Bell and available to Aeroplan Members. This initiative was praised for setting a new benchmark in inflight digital connectivity, reflecting the airline’s commitment to enhancing the traveler’s experience through seamless internet access.
FlightPath3D earned the Best Inflight Entertainment award for its Kids Map, an interactive and gamified platform designed to engage young passengers. By incorporating captivating characters and discovery elements, the service redefines inflight entertainment, transforming the journey into an immersive adventure at 35,000 feet.
All Nippon Airways (ANA) was honored with the Best Cabin Innovation award for its new business class seat, The Room FX. This design introduces a flexible passenger experience featuring simplified mechanisms, expanded storage options, and industry-leading bed space, underscoring ANA’s dedication to comfort and luxury in premium travel.
Recognizing Excellence in Food, Beverage, and Amenities
Fiji Airways won the Best Inflight Food or Beverage award for its “Dine on Demand” service, which highlights locally sourced Fijian ingredients. The menu includes dishes such as grilled mahi mahi with prawn chili oil, hamachi crudo, Fijian chicken curry, and inventive desserts, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to sustainability and regional culinary traditions.
Delta Air Lines was awarded Best Onboard Amenity for its Delta x Missoni Luxury Bedding collection. Developed in partnership with Missoni, the Delta One collection features refreshed amenity kits, custom socks, slippers, eye masks, and enhanced bedding, including a memory foam cuddle pillow designed for long-haul comfort. This collaboration elevates the onboard experience through thoughtful luxury and attention to detail.
Industry Impact and Competitive Dynamics
The awards also underscored the ongoing influence of the association’s airline ratings, which continue to shape market dynamics as carriers strive to improve their rankings and enhance customer satisfaction. The recognition of airlines such as El Al in previous years highlights the increasing importance of customer-centric strategies and continuous innovation within the industry.
As competition intensifies, airlines face mounting pressure to uphold high standards of innovation and service excellence. Market responses indicate that carriers are investing in new technologies, unique passenger experiences, and refined customer service initiatives to differentiate themselves and meet the evolving expectations of travelers worldwide.
CEO Lifetime Achievement Award
Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, was honored with the CEO Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and enduring impact on the aviation sector. Under Kirby’s stewardship, United Airlines has consistently driven innovation and established new standards for passenger experience on a global scale.
The 2026 APEX/IFSA Awards not only celebrated individual accomplishments but also highlighted a broader industry trend toward innovation, customer focus, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in passenger experience.

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