Kathrine Frich
The results spotlight excellence in everything from inflight comfort to airport lounges.
The results spotlight excellence in everything from inflight comfort to airport lounges.
The World’s Best Airlines of 2025 Revealed
If you’re booking flights for your next getaway, the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards have just delivered the ultimate cheat sheet.
From five-star service to spacious suites in the sky, these ten airlines have soared to the top of global rankings, some for the umpteenth time, and others as surprise contenders.
Based on over a year of passenger feedback, these results spotlight excellence in everything from inflight comfort to airport lounges. Here’s who made the cut, and what makes them the best.
1. Qatar Airways
For the ninth consecutive year, Qatar Airways has taken the crown as the world’s best airline.
Headquartered in Doha, the carrier is renowned for its luxury business class,especially the award-winning Qsuite, and exceptional service.
In 2025, it also won World’s Best Business Class and Best Business Class Lounge for its Al Mourjan Garden Lounge at Hamad International Airport.
Qatar Airways operates flights to over 160 destinations across six continents and maintains one of the youngest, most efficient fleets in the sky.
2. Singapore Airlines
Coming in second, Singapore Airlines continues to wow passengers with its ultra-premium service.
Its First Class Suites offer a luxurious 50-square-foot private cabin with a double bed, fine dining, and a 32-inch HD touchscreen.
The airline also scooped awards for World’s Best First Class and Best Cabin Crew.
Known for its meticulous service and innovation, Singapore Airlines is a Star Alliance member with routes spanning Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America.
3. Cathay Pacific
Based in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific landed third place in the rankings thanks to a strong post-pandemic recovery and elevated in-flight service.
A member of the oneworld alliance, it’s praised for its long-haul comfort, Asian-fusion cuisine, and premium lounges at Hong Kong International Airport.
Cathay serves over 80 destinations globally and is particularly strong on routes connecting Asia to North America and Europe.
4. Emirates
With its iconic A380 aircraft featuring onboard lounges and showers in First Class, Emirates remains a passenger favorite.
The Dubai-based airline ranked fourth in 2025, offering one of the most extensive international networks with flights to over 150 destinations.
It’s especially beloved for its award-winning ICE entertainment system and signature hospitality.
5. ANA All Nippon Airways
ANA (All Nippon Airways) is Japan’s largest airline and earned its fifth-place spot through consistent quality and innovation.
Known for its spotless cabins and punctuality, ANA is a leader in both domestic and international travel across Asia and beyond.
It also boasts one of the highest safety ratings globally and is a key member of Star Alliance.
6. Turkish Airlines
Headquartered in Istanbul, Turkish Airlines connects more countries than any other airline, flying to over 340 destinations in more than 120 countries.
Its sixth-place finish reflects high passenger satisfaction across both short-haul European and long-haul international routes.
Its hub at Istanbul Airport offers excellent lounge facilities and easy transit between continents.
7. Korean Air
Korean Air continues its rise, placing seventh in the 2025 rankings.
Operating from Seoul, the airline is part of the SkyTeam alliance and recently invested heavily in modernizing its fleet with new Boeing 787s and Airbus A321neos.
Korean Air is also merging with Asiana Airlines, a move that will create one of the world’s largest aviation groups in Asia.
8. Air France
Air France’s resurgence in luxury travel is paying off, earning it the eighth spot.
Known for its chic French flair, the airline offers a refined experience in its La Première (First Class) cabins, and has revamped business and economy class services.
Based at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, it serves more than 200 destinations worldwide as a SkyTeam member.
9. Japan Airlines (JAL)
JAL takes ninth with its signature understated luxury and precision service.
Based in Tokyo, it boasts some of the most spacious economy seating and a reputation for excellent inflight meals and service.
It’s also a member of the oneworld alliance, offering extensive domestic and international connectivity.
10. Hainan Airlines
Rounding out the top ten is Hainan Airlines, widely regarded as China’s best full-service carrier.
Though not part of any major alliance, Hainan has received numerous accolades for its cabin cleanliness, service quality, and premium economy product.
It’s based in Haikou and offers long-haul routes to North America, Europe, and Asia.
