The movers and shakers at Singapore Airlines must be walking on air at an altitude its competitors can only dream of reaching. AirlineRatings.com has picked the carrier as the best airline in the world for 2019, even though we're weeks away before the year begins. The website picked Singapore on the strength of a number of criteria ranging from product quality to safety.

Judges were impressed in particular by the innovation undertaken by Singapore Airlines, which has added new craft including the Airbus A350-900ULR and the Boeing 787-10, both known for economic efficiency including reduced fuel usage. The Airbus currently services the world's longest flight route, between New Jersey-based Newark Liberty Airport and Changi Airport in Singapore, making the fuel efficiency element handy. The daily flight, introduced in October, covers 9,500 miles and takes up nearly 19 hours.

PREVIOUSLY: UBER ANNOUNCES NEW MINIBUS SERVICE IN TRAFFIC-CONGESTED CAIRO, PROMOTING RIDE-SHARES

A cabin overhaul in the front of the upper deck of the Airbus fleet also impressed adjudicators. In that section are six suites that each boast a palatial vibe of an upper-crust hotel room that includes a 32-inch swiveling touchscreen, a foldaway flatbed comfortable for people of varying heights, two bathrooms, a changing area and sliding doors for added privacy.

Singapore Airlines has reportedly been pouring millions into upgrading services in its fleet including an introduction of business classes from regional flights to longer routes. It managed to beat out other prominent competitors Air New Zealand, Qantas Airways, Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia that rounded out the top five.

Although the other four airlines missed out on top honors, AirlineRatings.com did have many positive accolades for the runners-up. Air New Zealand received a great deal of praise for having an investment grade credit system, while Qantas was lauded for making flatbeds available on its entire A330 fleet. Fourth-place Qatar Airways made the grade with its relentless focus on business class service and catering, while Virgin Australia made it to fifth with additional services added to its economy and business classes.

Comprising the top 10 were Emirates, All Nippon Airways, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific Airways, and Japan Airlines. A seven-star safety rating and a reputation for leadership in providing greater passenger comfort are prerequisites before an airline is considered for top 10 status.

READ NEXT: GATE AGENT MOCKS 5-YEAR-OLD GIRL CALLED ABCDE, POSTS PICTURE OF HER BOARDING PASS ONLINE