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Top 10 best airlines in the world: Choosing the right airline can have a real impact on your travel experience, especially on long-haul international flights where comfort, timeliness, and good service is more than just desirable; it is essential. From legroom and service to inflight meals and entertainment, the difference between a good flight and a great one can be vast. That’s where the Skytrax World Airline Awards – often dubbed the “Oscars of the aviation industry” – come in. Based on millions of passenger reviews across categories, they offer one of the most respected barometers of excellence in the skies.
In the 2025 edition, the rankings reflect how fiercely global airlines are competing not just to raise standards but to distinguish themselves regionally and experientially. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, knowing who is leading the way can help you make travel decisions,
Unsurprisingly, Qatar Airways continues its reign with a record-breaking ninth title as the World’s Best Airline—more than any other airline in Skytrax history. It leads a mix of legacy giants and regional heavyweights that are pushing the boundaries of comfort, innovation and sustainability.
While no Indian airline made it to the global top 10 this year, the competition makes clear what it takes to be world-class—from elevated design and service to eco-conscious operations.
| Rank. | Airlines | Founded in |
| 1. | Qatar Airways | November 1993 |
| 2. | Singapore Airlines | January 1972 |
| 3. | Cathay Pacific | September 1946 |
| 4. | Emirates | March 1985 |
| 5. | ANA All Nippon Airways | December 1952 |
| 6. | Turkish Airlines | May 1933 |
| 7. | Korean Air | March 1969 |
| 8. | Air France | October 1933 |
| 9. | Japan Airlines | August 1951 |
| 10. | Hainan Airlines | October 1989 |
Source: Skytrax World Airline Awards
At the 2025 Skytrax Awards, Qatar Airways has been awarded ‘World’s Best Airline’, reconfirming its position as a world leader. Based in Doha, Qatar Airways continues to provide luxury and world-class service to more than 170 destinations. As of this year, it has become the first Middle Eastern airline to receive the highest level of certification with IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme.
Singapore Airlines, ranked the world’s second-largest airline, has unveiled a revamped A380 cabin as part of an $850 million upgrade. Known for flying some of the world’s most advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft, its fleet includes the Airbus A350, A380, and Boeing 777-300ER.
Cathay Pacific, headquartered in Hong Kong and part of the Swire Group, was voted the third best airline in the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards. The airline won the award for ‘World’s Best Economy Class Airline,’ as well as AIrbis’ ‘Best Inflight Entertainment in the world’. With three, two Michelin starred, dining, refreshed cabins, and fleet-wide connectivity,
Emirates, based in Dubai as part of The Emirates Group, is one of the largest airlines in the world, servicing cities across six continents. It has a reputation for comfortable cabins and reliable service, and it is also advancing sustainable practices by way of measures to reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and aid in wildlife conservation.
All Nippon Airways (ANA), based in Minato City, Tokyo, is a leading global carrier under ANA Holdings Inc. Known for its outstanding service and consistent top-tier rankings, ANA operates flights to 42 international cities and about 50 domestic locations across Japan.
Established in 1933, Turkish Airlines has become a major global airline with services to 130 countries and a fleet size of over 480 aircraft. Almost 50 percent state owned, Turkish Airlines has built a stalwart reputation for great service, competitive pricing, fabulous catering and entertainment. Turkish Airlines was recognized as the Best Airline in Europe by the Skytrax World Airline Awards in 2025.
Korean Air is ranked seventh in the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards and is gaining its global footprint as part of the Hanjin Group based in Seoul. After its merger with Asiana Airlines, the airline will expand its authority as a full-service provider in Asia. The airline also emphasizes sustainability with its GREEN SKYPASS program. Loyalty members are able to begin supporting carbon neutrality by further developing eco-friendly forests.
Air France has moved up to eighth place in the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, improving on last year’s ninth spot. Part of the Air France-KLM Group, the airline has now held the title of Best Airline in Western Europe for five straight years, thanks to its top-tier First Class and refined lounge experience. Backed by strong global ties and a wide-reaching network, it remains a key player in international aviation.
Japan Airlines, part of the JAL Group, has earned its spot among the world’s top airlines, consistently praised for its spotless cabins, reliable punctuality, and refined in-flight service. With a 5-Star Skytrax rating for eight years running and the launch of the A350-1000, the airline continues to set high standards across global and domestic routes.
Hainan Airlines, known for its exceptional service and recognition from the Skytrax World Airline Awards, rounds off the world’s top 10 largest airlines. With the recent addition of its first Airbus A321neo, the carrier is strengthening its international and regional reach. Backed by a solid safety record and over 1,700 routes, it remains a major force in China’s expanding global aviation footprint.
