Let’s face it: travel has come a long way in a short time. Who would have thought that the same species who once trudged across continents on horse-drawn carriages would be zipping through the skies on 300-seater airplanes?
But even as air travel becomes more accessible, it still involves squeezing into a designated seat for 12 hours on a long-haul flight. Thankfully, these top airlines know how to make that journey a little more comfortable.
Whether it be high-end service, comfy cabins, gourmet meals, or award-winning amenities, these airlines make long flights feel like a treat. Based on the Skytrax World Airlines Awards, these are the best-ranked airlines:
10. Swiss International Airlines
Swiss International Airlines is known for its understated elegance and clockwork efficiency — a bit like a Swiss watch. The airline is one of the most reliable in the business, but it also offers a level of luxury that makes an important difference.
Think high-quality meals with Swiss chocolate treats, spacious cabins with leather seats, and a polite cabin crew. Their business class cabin is top-notch, with fully reclining seats that will make any worries of jet lag fade away.
9. Air France
France does everything with an elegant flair, so it only makes sense that its national airline is one of the best in the world. Air France is known for its chic cabin design and sophisticated in-flight dining — especially if you’re lucky enough to fly business class. Specially sourced French wines and even Champagne are served to the lucky few at the nose of the plane.
But even economy class feels a bit more refined here. The food is great, considering airplane food standards, the seats are comfortable, and the in-flight entertainment is abundant.
8. EVA Air
This Taiwanese airline might be a bit underrated (and under the radar), but frequent flyers rate it as a real gem. EVA Air’s attention to detail is what sets it apart from the rest. By this, I mean its famously clean cabins, comfortable memory-foam seating. And let’s not forget the thoughtful in-flight amenities like complimentary pajamas for business and premium economy class passengers.
They’ve mastered the art of flight relaxation. Their business class – known as Royal Laurel Class – even features semi-private suites with bedding, moody lighting, and top-notch dining and wine options.
7. Turkish Airlines
With Turkish Airlines (and many other things in Turkey), it’s all about hospitality. They’re known for their super polite yet professional staff, who make the entire experience from check-in to disembarking all the more pleasant.
When it comes to food, their in-flight meals are exceptional. Inspired by Turkish flavors, even economy class gets a delicious range of options. Their in-flight entertainment is designed to keep you entertained for long-haul journeys, with just about any movie you could wish to watch!
6. Japan Airlines
Japan is known for its chic simplicity, class, and style, and Japan Airlines speaks testament to this. It runs on the classic Japanese principles of courtesy and efficiency, always putting customers first. They’re champions of personal space — even in economy class, where you’ll find some of the roomiest seats in the skies.
Their traditional meal service is a memorable experience. Business class passengers can dine on sushi and sake. You’ll feel like you’re already in Japan from the moment you step on board.
5. Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific brings the buzz of Hong Kong to the skies with its sleek and sophisticated interiors and genuinely warm hospitality. The airline is all about making long-haul flights as comfortable as possible, whether it be with spacious seats or a huge selection of movies and games.
They’re also known for their high-quality food and drinks, attentive service from check-in to disembarkment, and excellent premium lounges throughout Asia. What’s not to love?
4. ANA All Nippon Airways
ANA All Nippon Airways is another incredibly impressive Japanese airline. It’s known for its reliability, efficiency, and calm and refined service. Think polite, immaculately dressed flight attendants to help guide you through every step of your travel experience.
Their business class seats, called ‘The Room,’ are among the most spacious and private in the skies. They offer a closet, ample legroom, and a Japanese and Western menu with on-demand ramen services.
3. Emirates
Emirates’ luxurious offerings are practically legendary. The airline has taken the world by storm, servicing just about every destination you could wish to visit. With onboard showers, bars, pajamas, and designer toiletries offered to business and first-class passengers, it’s hard to beat.
But even if you’re not flying at the nose of the plane, their economy seats are some of the best. They’re more spacious than most and recline to a level that makes it easy to get a good night’s rest in. And the moody starry sky cabin lighting sure does help.
To top things off, they offer lounge access in all their major hubs.
2. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines is often a top traveler’s choice, and it’s not hard to see why. The airline has redefined comfort with impressive service, spacious seats, and thoughtful amenities that include designer blankets and pajamas in premium cabins.
The food selection is extensive, with different options inspired by the various cuisines of their origin and destinations. They also have an in-flight entertainment system that puts others to shame.
1. Qatar Airways
And the year’s best airline is: Qatar Airways. This UAE airline really knows how to pamper its passengers. Their business class, called Qsuite, offers the most luxurious sleeping quarters in the industry. Think lie-flat beds that can be booked together for couples, privacy doors, and revolving seats.
Their in-flight meal menus are curated by world-famous chefs, and excellent dining options are served to all their classes. With a hub like Doha connecting with most of the world’s international airports, the Qatar offers some of the most convenient (and affordable) routes in the business.
Leave a Reply