Not all airlines are created equal. Some go the extra mile—whether it’s through unmatched service, cutting-edge cabins, or an in-flight meal that actually tastes like something you’d order on the ground. That’s why we at The Miles Academy take these rankings seriously.
This year, we analyzed customer feedback, service quality, safety records, and overall passenger experience to determine the best airlines in the world. The aviation industry is evolving fast, with sustainability, comfort, and technology shaping the way we fly. Some airlines are leading that charge, setting a new standard for what it means to travel in style.
So, who made the cut? Here are the top 10 airlines of 2025—the ones that dominated the skies and delivered the best flying experiences money can buy.
The 10 Best Airlines of 2025: Leaders in Comfort, Service, and Innovation
Some airlines just get it. They know how to turn a long-haul flight into something you actually look forward to, whether it’s by offering the best seats, the most polished service, or in-flight dining that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. Based on our research, customer feedback, and industry analysis, these are the top 10 airlines that set the gold standard in 2025.
#1. Qatar Airways
- Fleet Size: 250+ aircraft (Airbus A350-1000, Boeing 787-9, 777-9 incoming)
- Destinations: 170+ across six continents
- Main Hub: Hamad International Airport (DOH), Doha
Qatar Airways maintains its position at the top with consistent excellence in all classes. Qsuite remains the gold standard in business class, offering private suites with sliding doors and the only double bed available in business class. The airline operates one of the youngest fleets, ensuring fuel efficiency and a quieter cabin experience. Its in-flight entertainment system, Oryx One, offers over 4,000 entertainment options, and the onboard dining menu features dishes curated by renowned chefs.
#2. Singapore Airlines
- Fleet Size: 180+ aircraft (Airbus A380, A350, Boeing 787-10, 777-9 incoming)
- Destinations: 110+ through Singapore Airlines and Scoot
- Main Hub: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
Singapore Airlines consistently ranks as a top airline due to its service quality and innovation. Its premium cabins offer industry-leading space and privacy, while economy class features well-cushioned seats with above-average legroom. The airline operates some of the world’s longest flights, including Singapore–New York and Singapore–Los Angeles non-stop, using ultra-long-range A350 aircraft designed for passenger comfort.
#3. Emirates
- Fleet Size: 260+ aircraft (largest operator of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s)
- Destinations: 150+ across six continents
- Main Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Emirates continues to dominate long-haul travel with its luxurious cabins. First-class suites on the Boeing 777 feature fully enclosed rooms with virtual windows. Business class on the A380 includes direct aisle access for every seat, while onboard bars and shower spas elevate the experience. Its award-winning ICE entertainment system remains the most comprehensive in the industry, featuring over 6,500 channels.
#4. ANA (All Nippon Airways)
- Fleet Size: 250+ aircraft (Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Airbus A380)
- Destinations: 85 international, 120 domestic
- Main Hubs: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Narita (NRT)
ANA is known for exceptional service and efficiency. Its latest business class product, “The Room,” offers one of the most spacious business-class seats globally, resembling a first-class suite. The airline maintains a high punctuality record, and its dual hub system in Tokyo makes it an excellent option for connections across Japan and beyond.
#5. Cathay Pacific Airways
- Fleet Size: 200+ aircraft (Airbus A350-1000, Boeing 777-300ER, 777-9 incoming)
- Destinations: 190+ worldwide
- Main Hub: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Cathay Pacific continues to excel in long-haul service, connecting Asia with major cities in North America, Europe, and Australia. Its business class is consistently ranked among the best, featuring wide seats, direct aisle access, and high-quality catering. The airline’s exclusive lounges in Hong Kong, such as The Pier and The Wing, further enhance the premium experience.
#6. Japan Airlines (JAL)
- Fleet Size: 230+ aircraft (Boeing 787-9, Airbus A350-1000)
- Destinations: 95 across 20 territories
- Main Hubs: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Narita (NRT), Osaka (KIX), Nagoya (NGO)
Japan Airlines balances traditional hospitality with modern amenities. Its premium economy seats offer some of the best legroom in the industry, while business class features private suites with world-class catering. JAL is among the most punctual airlines, ensuring smooth travel experiences.
#7. Turkish Airlines
- Fleet Size: 400+ aircraft (Airbus A350, Boeing 787, 777, 737 MAX)
- Destinations: 330+ (most international destinations of any airline)
- Main Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
Turkish Airlines holds the title of flying to more countries than any other airline. It offers excellent onboard dining, with gourmet meals inspired by Turkish and international cuisine. The airline’s new business class seats provide direct aisle access and a more spacious layout. Its Stopover Program allows travelers a complimentary stay in Istanbul, making long layovers more enjoyable.
#8. EVA Air
- Fleet Size: 90+ aircraft (Boeing 777-300ER, Airbus A321neo)
- Destinations: 65+ worldwide
- Main Hub: Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Taipei
EVA Air is renowned for safety, cleanliness, and high service standards. Its business class, Royal Laurel Class, features fully lie-flat seats with extra privacy. The airline has one of the best economy class products, with generous legroom and premium meal options. Skytrax regularly ranks EVA Air’s cabin cleanliness among the highest.
#9. Air France
- Fleet Size: 230+ aircraft (Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, 777-300ER)
- Destinations: 312 across 116 countries (as part of the Air France-KLM Group)
- Main Hub: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Paris
Air France is known for its elegant service and premium offerings. La Première, its first-class product, provides an ultra-exclusive experience with only four suites per aircraft. Business class has been revamped with more privacy and lie-flat seats. The airline continues to expand its fleet with fuel-efficient aircraft, improving sustainability efforts.
#10. Swiss International Air Lines
- Fleet Size: 90+ aircraft (Airbus A220, A320neo, Boeing 777-300ER)
- Destinations: 100+ worldwide
- Main Hubs: Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA)
Swiss Air combines precision with reliability. Its first and business-class products emphasize privacy and fine dining, while economy class features ergonomically designed seats. As part of the Lufthansa Group, it offers extensive connections across Europe and beyond. The airline is committed to carbon neutrality by 2050, leading efforts in sustainable aviation.
What Sets These Airlines Apart?
Not all airlines are worth the hype. Some promise luxury but barely deliver on the basics. The airlines on this list, though? They back up their reputations with real, tangible perks—whether it’s cutting-edge aircraft, next-level comfort, or in-flight dining that actually feels like a meal instead of an afterthought.
Here’s what makes them stand out:
Redefining Passenger Comfort
The gap between economy, business, and first class is getting wider—but in a good way. Airlines are investing heavily in passenger comfort, from fully enclosed first-class suites to economy seats that actually give you room to breathe.
- Qatar Airways’ Qsuite: Introduced in 2017, the Qsuite offers business class passengers fully enclosed suites with sliding doors, lie-flat beds, and the option to configure adjoining seats into a double bed. The innovative “Quad” setup allows groups of four to create a private space, enhancing both privacy and flexibility.
- Emirates’ First Class Suites: On their Boeing 777 aircraft, Emirates provides first-class suites with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, virtual windows for middle aisle seats, and a personal minibar, creating a private, luxurious in-flight experience.
- Singapore Airlines’ Premium Economy: This class features wider seats with an 8-inch recline, adjustable footrests, and priority boarding, offering enhanced comfort for long-haul travelers.
- Japan Airlines and ANA’s Economy Seats: Both airlines offer economy class seats with a seat pitch of up to 34 inches, providing passengers with more legroom compared to the industry standard.
Technology & Sustainability
The aviation industry isn’t just about luxury—it’s also about efficiency and environmental responsibility. The best airlines are constantly upgrading their fleets to reduce emissions and improve performance.
- ANA and Japan Airlines: Both airlines have incorporated fuel-efficient aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner into their fleets, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
- Swiss International Air Lines: Committed to environmental responsibility, SWISS aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, implementing measures such as investing in more efficient aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels.
- Emirates’ Technological Innovations: Emirates has introduced virtual windows in first class suites on their Boeing 777 aircraft, using real-time camera technology to display the outside view for interior suites.
Culinary Excellence
A meal on a plane used to be something you just dealt with. Now, airlines are making food an actual highlight of the experience.
- Air France serves Michelin-starred meals, with menus designed by world-renowned chefs.
- Turkish Airlines offers full-course meals in economy, prepared by onboard “flying chefs.”
- Singapore Airlines partners with a team of international chefs to create gourmet dishes across all cabin classes.
Some airlines go a step further. Emirates serves exclusive wines you won’t find anywhere else, and Qatar Airways even offers dine-on-demand service in business class—meaning you can eat whenever you want, not just when the cart rolls by.
Which Airline Should You Fly Next?
Not every airline is the right fit for every trip. Some excel in luxury, while others are all about efficiency and reliability. Whether you’re looking for top-tier service, unbeatable comfort, or the most seamless long-haul experience, here’s how the top airlines stack up:
Looking for Luxury?
If comfort is your priority, these airlines turn flying into an experience worth savoring:
- Qatar Airways – Qsuite in business class is still the best in the game. If you want ultimate privacy, lie-flat seats, and restaurant-style dining, this is the way to go.
- Emirates – First-class suites with floor-to-ceiling doors, in-flight showers, and onboard bars. Need we say more?
- Singapore Airlines – First and business class cabins are designed for travelers who want exceptional service, gourmet dining, and a truly refined experience.
Want the Best Service?
Some airlines go above and beyond when it comes to hospitality:
- Japan Airlines – Their cabin crew is known for precision, politeness, and attention to detail. Everything is done with care.
- ANA All Nippon Airways – Impeccable service, spotlessly clean cabins, and an experience that feels polished from start to finish.
- Singapore Airlines – Consistently ranked among the best for service, with flight attendants trained to deliver warm, professional hospitality.
Flying Long-Haul?
If you’re in for the long haul, these airlines make the journey feel shorter:
- Cathay Pacific – One of the best business class products for long-haul travel, plus excellent lounge options in Hong Kong.
- Turkish Airlines – The best food in the sky, with a massive network that makes almost any destination accessible.
- EVA Air – Their Royal Laurel Class (business class) seats are ultra-comfortable for long transpacific flights.
Need a Reliable Flight?
Punctuality and smooth operations can make or break your travel experience:
- Swiss International Air Lines – Known for efficiency and on-time performance, with a strong focus on sustainability.
- Japan Airlines – One of the most punctual airlines in the world, ensuring stress-free connections.
- Air France – A well-connected global network that makes travel through Europe easy and efficient.
Final Thoughts
The airlines on this list aren’t just getting passengers from one place to another—they’re setting the standard for what air travel should be.
If you haven’t flown with one of these airlines yet, you’re missing out on some of the best experiences the industry has to offer. With competition heating up and airlines constantly evolving, next year’s rankings might bring some surprises.
Which of these airlines is your favorite? Let us know in the comments, and stay tuned for more insights from The Miles Academy.
