Top 20 Best Airlines In The World
In this era of globalization, the Airline industry has become a significant part of our lives. Airlines not only connect us to different corners of the world but also promise a comfortable and luxurious travel experience. Based on factors such as customer service, in-flight amenities, timeliness, and safety, the following 20 airlines have consistently delivered on these fronts, earning them a spot on the list of the best airlines in the world.
1. Singapore Airlines
- Overall: Singapore Airlines has been named one of the best airlines in the world for eight consecutive years. The airline is known for its luxurious cabins, excellent service, and delicious food. Singapore Airlines also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s A380s feature a luxurious first-class suite with a private bar and shower, as well as a spacious business-class cabin with lie-flat seats. Singapore Airlines also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
Singapore Airlines, a paragon in the aviation industry, elevates the concept of travel to an art form. With its much-lauded Singapore Suites offering enclosed private spaces and lie-flat beds swathed in the finest linens, comfort reaches echelons hitherto unexplored. In-flight fare transcends typical airplane grub; their Book the Cook service allows for the pre-selection of gourmet meals, prepared by culinary masters. Personalized entertainment on expansive touchscreens, boasting a cornucopia of films and tunes, promises to banish boredom.
And let’s not overlook the iconic Singapore Girl—the airline’s flight attendants, awash in their distinctive sarong kebayas, epitomize unrivaled hospitality. It’s a blend of these extraordinary elements that renders Singapore Airlines not just a travel option, but an experience that redefines what it means to fly.
2. Qatar Airways
- Overall: Qatar Airways is another airline that consistently ranks at the top of the best airline lists. The airline is known for its spacious cabins, comfortable seats, and excellent food. Qatar Airways also has a large fleet of modern aircraft, which means that you can expect a smooth and comfortable flight.
- Highlights: The airline’s Qsuite business class product is one of the best in the world, offering passengers a private suite with a sliding door, lie-flat seats, and a personal TV. Qatar Airways also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, a large fleet of modern aircraft.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
Qatar Airways is widely lauded for its QSuite—often described as a ‘first in business’—this Gulf-based airline manifests opulence in every stitch of its plush upholstery and every pixel on its high-definition entertainment screens. Aboard the QSuite, passengers revel in the privacy of their individual compartments, with doors that close to provide a sanctum in the sky. Culinary delights are curated to reflect a global palate, embodying not merely sustenance but a dining experience akin to a gourmet restaurant.
The handpicked collection of wines and spirits makes even the most discerning oenophile rejoice. With crew members trained meticulously in the craft of hospitable service, you’d be forgiven for feeling like Arabian royalty. In essence, flying with Qatar Airways metamorphoses the act of travel from a mundane necessity into an odyssey of pleasure and luxury.
3. ANA All Nippon Airways
- Overall: ANA All Nippon Airways is the largest airline in Japan, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its friendly and attentive service, as well as its comfortable cabins and delicious food. ANA All Nippon Airways also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s new Boeing 787 Dreamliners feature spacious cabins with lie-flat seats in business class and premium economy. ANA All Nippon Airways also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
ANA All Nippon Airways deftly combines cutting-edge technology with timeless tradition. With a reputation for punctuality that would impress even the most chronically timely, this airline offers a serene atmosphere as you traverse the heavens. In their premium Cabins, seats stretch into flat beds with mattresses boasting “airweave” technology for optimal slumber.
Onboard cuisine dances between the worlds of traditional Japanese dishes and international fare, executed to perfection. Want sake with your sushi or a Western wine to complement your choice cut of beef? Their beverage menu rarely disappoints. Entertainment on sleek, large screens varies from trending blockbuster hits to games designed to engage both the young and young at heart.
Plus, their commitment to eco-friendly practices, including efforts to reduce cabin waste, make ANA a thoughtful choice for the eco-conscious traveler. ANA not only transports you to your destination; it immerses you in the finest elements of Japanese culture, all the while ensuring that your journey remains splendidly comfortable and uniquely enriching.
4. Emirates
- Overall: Emirates is the largest airline in the United Arab Emirates, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its luxurious cabins, excellent service, and delicious food. Emirates also has a large fleet of modern aircraft, which means that you can expect a smooth and comfortable flight.
- Highlights: The airline’s A380s feature a spacious first-class cabin with private suites, as well as a luxurious business-class cabin with lie-flat seats. Emirates also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, and a large fleet of modern aircraft.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
Emirates Airlines is widely acclaimed for delivering a caliber of luxury that frequently pushes the envelope, Emirates captivates passengers with its First-Class Suites. These private chambers, complete with ambient mood lighting and automated doors, transform into fully flat beds at the touch of a button.
Connoisseurs will revel in the gastronomic symphony orchestrated in the skies: sumptuous multi-course meals served on Royal Doulton bone china, coupled with an extensive wine list that rivals sommelier-curated collections.
If you’re leaning toward a more spirited experience, indulge in an Aperol Spritz at the onboard lounge. Entertainment? Their award-winning system, ice, sports an array of movies, TV shows, and music that could keep even the most restless traveler engrossed for the duration of the flight.
Throw in the exemplary service provided by a multinational cabin crew and you have a flying experience that’s less about getting from Point A to B and more about relishing the indulgent voyage in between.
5. Japan Airlines
- Overall: Japan Airlines is the flag carrier airline of Japan, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its friendly and attentive service, as well as its comfortable cabins and delicious food. Japan Airlines also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s new Boeing 777-300ERs feature spacious cabins with lie-flat seats in business class and premium economy. Japan Airlines also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
Japan Airlines offers a sublime blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. Known for its impeccable attention to detail, which reflects the Japanese ethos of “Omotenashi,” or meticulous hospitality, JAL ensures a flight experience in which every nuance feels purposefully crafted for passenger comfort. Sky Suites in the premium sections unfurl into perfectly flat beds, accompanied by TOTO Washlets for an extra layer of refinement.
An a la carte menu showcases a culinary melange that pays homage to traditional Japanese kaiseki while also accommodating global tastes. Thirsty? Their handpicked selection of fine Japanese whiskies, sake, and international wines satiates even the most discerning palate. In terms of visual and auditory diversions, their high-definition entertainment system showcases a kaleidoscope of options, from the latest blockbuster releases to an array of Japanese art films.
Coupled with the understated yet attentive service from their skilled crew, Japan Airlines creates an atmosphere that manages to feel both luxurious and surprisingly homelike.
6. Turkish Airlines
- Overall: Air France is the flag carrier airline of France, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its friendly and attentive service, as well as its comfortable cabins and delicious food. Air France also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s new Airbus A350-900s feature spacious cabins with lie-flat seats in business class and premium economy. Air France also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
With an ambiance that practically exudes je ne sais quoi, this airline offers La Première First Class cabins where opulence is the modus operandi. Reclining seats metamorphose into lie-flat beds, enshrouded in merino wool and encased in a curtain of privacy.
Expect your palate to be wooed by an exquisite culinary showcase, often featuring dishes concocted by Michelin-starred chefs. Wine and champagne? Mais bien sûr! Their cellar options can stand toe-to-toe with France’s finest bistros.
he in-flight entertainment encompasses a pantheon of international films, but for those keen on French cinema, it’s a veritable festival. Crew members manifest French hospitality with a blend of professional charm and chic courtesy, making Air France not just a flight but a sumptuous sojourn through the skies.
8. Cathay Pacific Airways
- Overall: Cathay Pacific Airways is the flag carrier airline of Hong Kong, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its excellent service, comfortable cabins, and delicious food. Cathay Pacific Airways also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s new Boeing 777-9s feature spacious cabins with lie-flat seats in business class and premium economy. Cathay Pacific Airways also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
9. EVA Air
- Overall: EVA Air is the flag carrier airline of Taiwan, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its friendly and attentive service, as well as its comfortable cabins and delicious food. EVA Air also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s new Boeing 787 Dreamliners feature spacious cabins with lie-flat seats in business class and premium economy. EVA Air also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
10. Korean Air
- Overall: Korean Air is the flag carrier airline of South Korea, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its excellent service, comfortable cabins, and delicious food. Korean Air also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s new Boeing 777-300ERs feature spacious cabins with lie-flat seats in business class and premium economy. Korean Air also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
11. Qantas Airways
- Overall: Qantas Airways is the flag carrier airline of Australia, and it is also one of the best. The airline is known for its excellent service, comfortable cabins, and delicious food. Qantas Airways also has a strong safety record, having never had a fatal accident in its history.
- Highlights: The airline’s A380s feature a spacious first-class cabin with private suites, as well as a luxurious business-class cabin with lie-flat seats. Qantas Airways also offers a wide variety of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Excellent service, comfortable cabins, delicious food, strong safety record, a large network of destinations.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially for premium cabins.
Qantas Airways is a founding member of the Oneworld alliance, which means that you can earn and redeem miles on flights with other Oneworld airlines. The airline also offers a variety of loyalty programs, including Qantas Frequent Flyer, which allows you to earn miles for flights, hotel stays, and car rentals.
Qantas Airways flies to over 150 destinations in Australia, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The airline’s hub is at Sydney Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in the world.
12. Etihad Airways
- Overall: Swiss International Air Lines is renowned for its commitment to excellence in air travel. With a rich history of quality service, the airline consistently ranks among the top choices for travelers worldwide. Swiss International Air Lines is synonymous with comfort, reliability, and Swiss precision.
- Highlights: Passengers on Swiss International Air Lines enjoy luxurious in-flight experiences, featuring comfortable seats and a selection of delicious meals. The airline’s modern fleet ensures a smooth journey, and its Swiss hospitality is second to none. Swiss International Air Lines offers convenient connections through its Zurich hub to numerous destinations across the globe.
- Pros: Outstanding service, comfortable cabins, Swiss precision and reliability, extensive route network, delectable cuisine.
- Cons: Ticket prices can be on the higher side, particularly for premium seating options.
Swiss International Air Lines continues to be a trusted choice for travelers seeking an exceptional flying experience with a touch of Swiss perfection.
14. Hainan Airlines
- Overall: Hainan Airlines has carved a notable reputation in the aviation industry, consistently offering a high level of service to its passengers. Known for its dedication to passenger comfort and satisfaction, Hainan Airlines has earned its place as a respected global carrier.
- Highlights: Passengers flying with Hainan Airlines can expect a comfortable and enjoyable journey. The airline takes pride in its modern and well-maintained fleet, ensuring safe and smooth travel. Hainan Airlines is particularly appreciated for its extensive network, providing convenient connections to a wide range of destinations worldwide.
- Pros: Outstanding passenger service, comfortable cabins, a global network of destinations, delectable in-flight meals.
- Cons: Ticket prices may be relatively high, especially for premium seating options.
Hainan Airlines remains a preferred choice for travelers seeking an elevated travel experience with a focus on quality service and convenience.
15. Air Canada
- Overall: Air Canada stands as a prominent and reliable airline that has garnered a reputation for excellence in the aviation industry. Known for its commitment to passenger satisfaction, Air Canada has consistently provided passengers with a high-quality travel experience, making it a trusted choice for travelers around the world.
- Highlights: Passengers aboard Air Canada flights can look forward to a comfortable and enjoyable journey. The airline prides itself on its modern and well-maintained fleet, ensuring safe and smooth travel. With an extensive route network, Air Canada offers travelers convenient access to a diverse array of global destinations.
- Pros: Exceptional passenger service, comfortable cabins, a vast network of destinations, and delectable in-flight cuisine.
- Cons: Ticket prices, particularly for premium seating options, may be relatively high.
Air Canada’s enduring appeal lies in its dedication to providing travelers with a superior flying experience marked by quality, convenience, and a genuine commitment to passenger satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time traveler, Air Canada consistently delivers on its promise of excellence in aviation.
16. Lufthansa
- Overall: Lufthansa has consistently ranked among the world’s top airlines, setting high standards in air travel. Known for its commitment to excellence, Lufthansa offers travelers a luxurious flying experience marked by exceptional service, premium cabins, and gourmet cuisine. The airline boasts a strong safety record, reflecting its dedication to passenger safety.
- Highlights: Traveling with Lufthansa promises an exceptional journey. The airline’s spacious cabins, especially in its A380s, offer passengers a premium experience. The luxurious first-class suite with a private bar and shower, as well as spacious lie-flat seats in business class, ensure unparalleled comfort. Lufthansa provides a diverse range of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music.
- Pros: Lufthansa is celebrated for its outstanding service, comfortable cabins, exquisite dining, and a flawless safety record.
- Cons: It’s important to note that Lufthansa can be relatively more expensive, particularly for premium cabin classes.
Lufthansa continues to be a top choice for travelers who seek a refined and luxurious flying experience, underlined by a commitment to excellence in aviation. Whether you’re embarking on a business trip or a leisurely journey, Lufthansa consistently delivers on its promise of a world-class travel experience.
17. British Airways
- Overall: British Airways, one of the world’s most iconic airlines, embodies a legacy of excellence in aviation. Renowned for its commitment to quality and exceptional service, British Airways has earned its reputation as a trusted choice for travelers seeking a sophisticated and reliable flying experience.
- Highlights: Passengers aboard British Airways flights are welcomed into a world of elegance and comfort. The airline’s modern and well-maintained fleet guarantees safety and efficiency, while its extensive global network provides seamless access to a multitude of destinations. British Airways’ unwavering dedication to passenger satisfaction is evident throughout the travel journey.
- Pros: British Airways is celebrated for its exceptional passenger service, luxurious cabins, an extensive network connecting global destinations, and a renowned reputation for serving exquisite in-flight meals.
- Cons: While British Airways is synonymous with quality, ticket prices, especially for premium classes, may be considered relatively high.
British Airways continues to set the standard for airlines worldwide, offering travelers an elevated travel experience marked by sophistication, dependability, and a strong commitment to passenger satisfaction. Whether you’re embarking on a business trip or a leisurely journey, British Airways consistently upholds its legacy of excellence in aviation.
18. Delta Air Lines
- Overall: Delta Air Lines is a globally recognized airline that exemplifies a commitment to excellence in air travel. Renowned for its dedication to passenger satisfaction and reliability, Delta has solidified its position as a trusted choice for travelers seeking a seamless and comfortable flying experience.
- Highlights: Traveling with Delta Air Lines guarantees passengers an enjoyable and stress-free journey. The airline boasts a modern and well-maintained fleet, ensuring safety and efficiency. Delta’s extensive route network provides travelers with convenient access to a wide array of domestic and international destinations.
- Pros: Delta Air Lines is celebrated for its outstanding passenger service, comfortable cabins, an extensive network connecting global destinations, and a reputation for serving delicious in-flight meals.
- Cons: While Delta’s quality is highly regarded, ticket prices, especially for premium seating, may be considered relatively high.
Delta Air Lines continues to be a preferred choice for travelers who value a dependable and enjoyable travel experience marked by comfort, reliability, and a strong commitment to passenger satisfaction. Whether you’re embarking on a business trip or a leisurely adventure, Delta consistently delivers on its promise of excellence in aviation.
19. Thai Airways
- Overall: Thai Airways stands as Thailand’s national carrier and a renowned global airline, known for its commitment to excellence in air travel. With a heritage steeped in hospitality and a reputation for quality service, Thai Airways has firmly established itself as a preferred choice for travelers seeking a seamless and culturally rich flying experience.
- Highlights: Passengers traveling with Thai Airways can expect to embark on a journey that reflects the warmth of Thai hospitality. The airline operates a modern and well-maintained fleet, ensuring passenger safety and comfort. Thai Airways’ extensive network connects travelers to diverse domestic and international destinations, making it a convenient choice for globetrotters.
- Pros: Thai Airways is celebrated for its exceptional passenger service, comfortable cabins, a wide-reaching network connecting global destinations, and an authentic culinary experience.
- Cons: While Thai Airways is known for its quality, ticket prices, especially for premium classes, may be relatively high.
Thai Airways continues to be a favored choice for travelers who appreciate a culturally immersive and enjoyable travel experience marked by gracious hospitality, dependability, and a strong commitment to passenger satisfaction. Whether you’re embarking on a business trip or a leisurely exploration, Thai Airways consistently delivers on its promise of excellence in aviation.
20. Virgin Atlantic
These airlines were all ranked highly by Skytrax, a global airline rating agency. They were also rated highly by passengers in surveys conducted by various travel websites.
Ultimately, the best airline for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, any of the airlines on this list would be a great choice for a safe and comfortable flight.
