No. 10 International: Qantas Airways
Score: 82.72
Consistent growth has finally placed Australia’s flag carrier on the International Top 10 list. This achievement can be attributed to ongoing enhancements in in-flight comfort. For instance, Marc Newson’s Skybeds with massage settings in business class, along with economy seats featuring clever hammock-style footrests, make long flights more enjoyable. Additionally, in business class, passengers receive chic amenity kits designed by Jack and Kate Spade, which include Australian ASPAR products in delightful South Pacific scents such as sweet orange, almond, and rose geranium. Notably, Qantas operates the world’s longest flight, covering 8,500 miles in a substantial 16 hours. Therefore, it’s understandable why travelers expect excellence from this distant airline.
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No. 9 International: All Nippon Airways (ANA)
Score: 82.83
Fashion-forward flight attendant uniforms, designed by Prabal Gurung, significantly contribute to this Japanese airline’s rising stature, even outshining Japan Airlines. Passengers in business class benefit from flat-lying seats, which enhance comfort. Moreover, the unique staggered configuration of the seats allows for easy movement throughout the cabin without inconveniencing fellow passengers. A well-appointed premium economy cabin, complemented by a touch of humor, helps keep this airline thriving. For instance, soon travelers can experience the Star Wars-themed R2-D2 livery making its debut at airports.
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No. 8 International: Korean Air
Score: 83.86
Despite its previous “nut-rage” incident, Korean Air continues to win over GoTravelDaily readers. This success can be attributed to its excellent service, diverse menu offerings featuring Western, Chinese, Japanese, and traditional Korean cuisines, as well as economy seats with a commendable 34-inch pitch. Latest updates, including USB ports at every seat and in-flight duty-free shops featuring luxury brands, are enhanced by the presence of the Celestial Bar on A380s. In this unique space, first and prestige-class passengers can unwind with handcrafted cocktails while enjoying breathtaking views at high altitudes.
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No. 7 International: Thai Airways
Score: 83.93
While some travelers suggest that this Asian airline could benefit from an update, it has not deterred its standing. A significant factor might be its award-winning economy class cabin, which guarantees that comfort and small luxuries are not exclusive to premium cabins. Even in coach, passengers experience a generous 32-inch seat pitch, footrests, and two meals even on six-hour flights. Who wouldn’t enjoy culinary offerings like stir-fried chicken, pork with noodles, or chicken curry with rice?
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No. 6 International: Virgin Atlantic Airways
Score: 84.30
Sir Richard Branson celebrated the 30th birthday of his flagship carrier this year with stylish new uniforms designed by Vivienne Westwood and a modern fleet of Dreamliners. The airline, known for its pioneering seat-back video and amenity kits provided in every class, continues to impress. Its innovative premium economy class offers roomy leather seats with a 38-inch pitch and even includes a welcome glass of champagne. Dining aboard is a unique experience too, with traditional British fare served on fine china and stainless steel cutlery, alongside delightful afternoon tea and dessert options.
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No. 5 International: Air New Zealand
Score: 84.73
Air New Zealand’s latest Dreamliner fleet, equipped with Economy SkyCouches, is winning accolades from families. This flexible seating arrangement allows passengers to purchase three adjacent seats, transforming them into a cozy sofa thanks to retractable armrests and footrests. GoTravelDaily readers consistently commend the airline for its value and exemplary service. This is often highlighted through thoughtful touches such as amusing in-flight safety videos featuring personalities like Betty White and Richard Simmons, as well as adjustable winged headrests in economy class.
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No. 4 International: Cathay Pacific Airways
Score: 84.90
The Hong Kong-based airline, Cathay Pacific, maintains a strong reputation by making continual improvements to its interiors and food service across all cabins. Collaborating with Michelin-starred restaurants in Hong Kong to create upscale, regionally-inspired menus, along with high-tech equipment like innovative onboard rice cookers, distinguishes Cathay Pacific as one of the finest airlines for food. Passengers will appreciate headrests with side wings, easily adjustable four-ways for optimal neck support, coat hooks, and cup holders that do not require the use of tray tables, making long-haul flights with this airline comfortable.
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No. 3 International: Qatar Airways
Score: 85
After a period of decline on the World’s Best list, Doha-based Qatar Airways has reclaimed its top position. This comeback may be due to the introduction of extra-wide body Airbus 350, an outstanding in-flight menu crafted by Master Chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Vineet Bhatia, or possibly the extensive on-board wine list curated by Master of Wines James Cluer. Qatar Airways is set to expand its service to cities like Atlanta, Boston, and Los Angeles next year. Travelers looking to streamline their travel experience can take advantage of the airline’s innovative print-at-home luggage tags, available for 103 outgoing routes from Hamad International Airport.
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No. 2 International: Emirates
Score: 87.59
This Middle Eastern carrier has reestablished its strong position, indicating a significant improvement in customer service. The in-flight dining experience impresses, featuring regional specialties such as Arabic meze and lamb stew served on fine bone china. Whether traveling in economy or mingling at the first-class bar, the in-flight entertainment is unrivaled, with live television programming. The premium amenity kits are notable as well; the rugged Italian-leather men’s kit contains Bvlgari products available in the airline’s signature first-class Shower Spa.
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No. 1 International: Singapore Airlines
Score: 90.94
For 20 consecutive years, Singapore Airlines has held its esteemed position as the No. 1 international airline. How has it remained on top? Singapore Airlines consistently sets industry standards for service and comfort. It was the first commercial airline to offer complimentary beverages and multiple meal options in economy class. Recently, the airline became the first operator of the Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger aircraft, and unveiled a premium economy class featuring in-flight entertainment on 13.3-inch high-definition monitors, foldout leg rests, and champagne service. Whether passengers are enjoying the lie-flat beds in first class, measuring 82 inches in length and served on luxurious Givenchy china, or relaxing in economy on cushioned backrests, the iconic “Singapore Girl” flight attendants wearing traditional batik-print sarong kebayas provide unmatched service, supported by an extensive four-month training program.
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No. 5 Domestic: Alaska Airlines
Score: 74.22
Alaska Airlines is known for its reliable departure times, boasting one of the best on-time performance ratings among U.S. carriers. Additionally, GoTravelDaily readers often applaud the airline for its flight experience. The introduction of new Boeing Space Bins means less hassle when stowing carry-on luggage, as the compartments hold 49% more and hang 2 inches lower. Custom-designed Recaro leather seats with power chargers at every passenger’s seat and a new partnership with James Beard-awarded chef Tom Douglas promise comforting Pacific Northwest cuisine, such as brisket chili with Yukon gold potatoes.
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No. 4 Domestic: Southwest Airlines
Score: 75.23
For value, Southwest Airlines is unmatched, especially as frustration with hidden fees increases in the industry. The introduction of a recent 72-hour sale offered rates as low as $49 for one-way tickets caught attention. Its Bags Fly Free policy remains a standout feature, as it is one of the last remaining domestic airlines not to charge for checked luggage. Moreover, Southwest Airlines is expanding globally with flights reaching Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, Aruba, and more.
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No. 3 Domestic: Hawaiian Airlines
Score: 77.84
Hawaiian Airlines establishes a welcoming atmosphere with new amenity kits designed by Manuheali’i and boasts one of the best on-time performance rates among domestic carriers. GoTravelDaily readers frequently commend the airline for its friendly customer service and focus on passenger experiences across all cabin classes. Uniquely, they remain the only U.S. carrier to offer complimentary meals in coach, featuring local offerings like Loco Moco and snacks such as Spam musubi. Recently, the carrier has also introduced a new premium economy class, providing extra legroom and souvenir pillows for comfort.
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No. 2 Domestic: JetBlue Airways
Score: 79.56
This domestic airline has had a fruitful year, especially for travelers seeking upscale experiences. Last summer, JetBlue introduced its premium cabins; dubbed Mint, this experience features lie-flat seats, some equipped with sliding doors for added privacy, alongside his-and-hers amenity kits sourced from Birchbox for transcontinental flights. In the economy section, stylish new seats come with power outlets and large personal screens featuring complimentary DirecTV.
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No. 1 Domestic: Virgin America
Score: 83.67
This California-based airline distinguishes itself by being the fastest airline in the country, reducing average flight times by up to seven minutes. Furthermore, Virgin America propels itself ahead of the domestic competition by offering local artisanal snacks on its flight, including acclaimed gluten-free macaroons and delectable Sea Salt Caramel Popcorn. In addition, travelers can conveniently order their preferred snacks through an interactive seatback touch-screen.
