Top 10 Airlines in the World (2024)

As there are so many options available, choosing the right airline can be a tricky task. So we’ve put together a list of the Top 10 Airlines in the World for 2024 to make it easier for you.

Who Selects The Top Airlines?

Figuring out which airlines are the “best” in the world isn’t a straightforward task. It involves different groups and independent organizations using various ways and rules. Here’s an overview:

Independent Rating Organizations:

• Skytrax World Airline Awards: One of the most high-status organizations, conducting annual surveys and audits to assess airline performance across various aspects, including cabin crew service, onboard amenities, airport services, and safety records. They categorize airlines based on their accumulated star ratings and award titles like “Airline of the Year” for different regions and categories.
• AirlineRatings.com: An independent aviation safety and product rating website, that evaluates airlines based on factors like fleet age, safety record, passenger reviews, and product offerings. They publish their own “Airline Excellence Awards” based on their independent assessments.
• APEX World Class Awards: An organization focused on improving the passenger experience, organizing annual awards based on passenger feedback and airline performance data across various categories like inflight entertainment and comfort.

Other sources of recognition:

• Airline industry publications and media outlets: May compile their own “best airlines” lists based on specific criteria, expert opinions, and passenger surveys.
• Travel websites and review platforms: Combined user reviews and ratings of airlines, providing insights into passenger experiences.

It’s important to note that these organizations have different methodologies and criteria, leading to varying perspectives on which airlines are considered “top.” Additionally, these rankings can change year-to-year as airlines adapt and improve their services.

1) Singapore Airlines:

Singapore Airlines, established in 1947, is the national airline of Singapore. Their headquarters are located in Changi Airport, Singapore. It’s famous for its amazing service, fancy cabins, and extensive network. People always declare that it’s one of the best airlines in the world.

Network Connectivity: The airline claims an extensive network ranging over 60 destinations across 4 continents, with its primary hub at Singapore Changi Airport, which is one of the best airports in the world. The airline is really popular in Southeast Asia and is getting more popular in Europe and North America too.

Fleet: Singapore Airlines maintains a modern fleet of over 150 aircraft, including fuel-efficient models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 XWB. These aircraft offer spacious cabins, advanced entertainment systems, and comfortable seating, contributing to a pleasant flying experience.

Awards History:

Singapore Airlines has won many big awards, showing that it’s a top airline in the world. Here are some examples of the awards they’ve won:

2) Qatar Airways:

Qatar Airways was founded in 1997 and is headquartered in Doha, Qatar. It’s a major player in the global airplane industry, connecting over 150 places across six continents. Their main airport hub is at Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH).

Customer Service: Qatar Airways is known for its attentive and personalized service, providing things like free kits with useful items, noise-canceling headphones, and in-flight entertainment systems. Their award-winning Qsuite business class features spacious private cabins, luxurious amenities, and personalized service, that makes your trip extra special.

Network Connectivity: Qatar Airways has an extensive network and is actively working to broaden its presence in Africa and Asia. They make it easy for travelers who want to continue their journey in these areas by offering convenient connections.

Fleet: Qatar Airways maintains a modern fleet exceeding 100 aircraft, including fuel-efficient models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 XWB. These aircraft offer modern cabins, advanced in-flight entertainment systems, and comfortable seating.

Awards History:

3) Emirates Airlines:

Established in 1985 and headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Emirates Airlines is a really big airline known everywhere. Renowned for its extensive network, luxurious A380 fleet, and innovative in-flight entertainment system, it consistently ranks high among the world’s most popular airlines.

Customer Service: Emirates Airlines is super nice to its passengers. They care about ensuring everyone has a good time while flying. They offer various amenities like complimentary amenity kits, noise-canceling headphones, and comfortable seating across all cabin classes.

Network Extension: Emirates is known for its great network expansion strategy, consistently adding new destinations and increasing flight frequencies to existing routes. They focus on connecting major cities across the globe, particularly in: Africa and the Middle East, Asia and Australasia, Europe and North America.

Fleet: Emirates has more than 270 modern airplanes, and they have the biggest group of Airbus A380 super big planes in the world. They also have fuel-efficient Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner planes that use advanced technology and make passengers more comfortable. Modern amenities like in-seat entertainment systems, comfortable seating, and personalized service are available throughout the fleet.

Awards History:

4) ANA All Nippon Airways:

Founded in 1952, All Nippon Airways (ANA) is the largest domestic carrier in Japan and one of the largest airlines in the world.

ANA has its roots in two predecessor airlines:

• Far East Airlines: Founded in 1952, it began operations with night cargo runs between Osaka and Tokyo.
• Japan Helicopter & Aeroplane Transport: Also founded in 1952, it focused on passenger and cargo services, primarily using helicopters.

Network Connectivity: ANA flies to more than 80 places, mostly in Asia, from its main airports in Tokyo Haneda (HND) and Osaka Kansai (KIX). They offer strong connections within Japan and serve various key destinations in China, South Korea, Southeast Asia, North America, and Europe. ANA works closely with other airlines, such as Star Alliance, to give passengers more travel options and easier connections, especially for long-distance trips.

Fleet: ANA All Nippon Airways maintains a modern and efficient fleet exceeding 180 aircraft. Their primary focus lies on:

They focus on using fuel-efficient planes, such as:

• Boeing 787 Dreamliner: Known for using less fuel and making passengers comfortable with big cabins, good entertainment, and cleaner air.
• Airbus A320neo: Another fuel-saving choice, which costs less to run and helps make air travel more eco-friendly.

They also have airplane types designed for passenger comfort and modern technology:

• Boeing 777: Providing roomy cabins, cozy seats, and high-tech entertainment systems during flights.
• Airbus A380: Although not many, they have a few A380s with big size, two-floor cabins, and different comforts.

Customer Service: Known for its outstanding customer service, ANA focuses on giving passengers special care and friendly Japanese hospitality. Their team is famous for being helpful, polite, and dedicated to exceeding passenger expectations. They offer various amenities like comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment systems, and complimentary beverages and meals across all cabin classes. While not the most luxurious compared to some competitors, their focus is on providing a comfortable and efficient travel experience.

Safety: ANA has a very good safety record and often gets the highest ratings from different groups that look at airplane safety.

Awards History:

5) EVA Air:

Founded in 1989, EVA Air has become the second-largest airline in Taiwan. They’re based at Taoyuan International Airport in Taoyuan City and aim to provide top-notch travel experiences on their wide-reaching international flights.

Customer Service: EVA Air is happy about its friendly and caring service, putting passenger comfort and happiness first. They also offer various amenities like complimentary amenity kits, noise-canceling headphones, comfortable seating, and a diverse selection of in-flight entertainment across all cabin classes. Additionally, EVA Air offers unique onboard experiences like themed Hello Kitty aircraft for children and personalized service through their Infinity MileageLands frequent flyer program.

Network Connectivity: EVA Air flies to more than 70 places, mostly in Asia and North America. Their main airports are in Taipei at Taoyuan International (TPE) and in Kaohsiung at Kaohsiung International (KHH). They offer strong connections within Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Additionally, EVA Air provides convenient connections to key destinations in North America, like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York. EVA Air has code-sharing agreements with other airlines to share flight arrangements, giving passengers more options to travel to different places.

Fleet: EVA Air has about 80 planes in its fleet, carefully selected to match their routes and what passengers need. They focus on having modern planes, with most being around 8 years old. This means travelers can expect a dependable and comfy journey.

They primarily utilize the following models:

• Boeing 787 Dreamliner: Renowned for its fuel efficiency, spacious cabins, and advanced features like larger windows and improved air quality, enhancing passenger comfort on long-haul flights.
• Boeing 777: Offering a versatile option with various configurations for both passenger and cargo transportation. Their 777 fleet tailors to both short and long-haul routes, providing comfortable seating and modern amenities.
• Airbus A330: This versatile wide-body aircraft serves medium-haul and long-haul routes with spacious cabins and efficient performance.
• Airbus A321: Primarily used for shorter regional routes, these fuel-efficient aircraft offer comfortable seating and in-flight entertainment systems.

Awards History:

6) Etihad Airways:

Started in 2003 and based in Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways has become a shining star in the world of flying. Known for their excellent service, creative options, and wide-reaching routes, they want you to try out their great travel experience.

Network Connectivity: Etihad Airways ranges over 70 destinations across five continents. Their primary hub, Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), acts as the central point, connecting you to:

• Middle East
• Africa
• Asia
• Europe
• North America

Strategic partnerships with other airlines, like Etihad Airways Partners, elevate your travel options by providing a smooth network for continuing journeys. This ensures that your travel experience is stress-free and well-connected.

Customer service: Etihad Airways is known for its great customer service. Their staff are friendly and attentive, quickly helping passengers with anything they need. You can reach them through phone, email, or social media, and they also have special desks at airports to assist you. Etihad makes sure to keep passengers updated about their flight status and tries to make things easier for them, aiming to make their journey better than expected.

Fleet: Etihad Airways has a big and varied collection of over 100 planes. They carefully picked these planes to match where they fly and what passengers want. Etihad prioritizes environmentally conscious operations by incorporating fuel-efficient models like:

Boeing 787 Dreamliner: Renowned for its reduced fuel consumption, offering spacious cabins, advanced entertainment systems, and improved air quality for long-haul flights.

Airbus A350 XWB: Another fuel-efficient option, using the latest technology and helping to make travel more eco-friendly.

Awards History:

7) Qantas Airways:

Founded in 1920, Qantas Airways (Qantas) is not just an airline, It’s an important part of Australian aviation, representing the nation worldwide. Known for its large network, up-to-date planes, and focus on safety and service.

Network Connectivity: Qantas boasts an impressive network ranging over 80 destinations across six continents, with its primary hub at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD). They offer strong connections within Australia, serving all major cities and popular tourist destinations. Additionally, they connect passengers to key destinations in:

• Asia
• Europe
• North America
• South America
• Africa (limited destinations)
• Their partnerships with other airlines, like Oneworld, help to provide more travel options for passengers going to different places.

Fleet: Qantas maintains a modern fleet exceeding 100 aircraft, featuring:

• Fuel-efficient models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 XWB, contribute to a more sustainable approach to air travel.
• The Qantas Dreamliner – A unique Boeing 787-9 variant featuring an enhanced interior design, focusing on passenger comfort and offering a distinctive travel experience.

Customer Service: Qantas also offers personalized and attentive service. They offer various amenities like Complimentary amenity kits on long-haul flights, noise-canceling headphones in Business and First Class, comfortable seating with ample legroom, and personal entertainment systems across all cabin classes. Additionally, Qantas offers unique onboard experiences like Neil Perry Rockpool menus. Signature dishes from renowned Australian chef Neil Perry are available in First Class on selected routes. There are lots of entertainment options onboard: You can choose from many movies, TV shows, music, and games to enjoy during your flight.

Awards History:

8) Air New Zealand:

Air New Zealand, founded in 1940, is the main airline of New Zealand. It’s famous for being friendly, creative, and caring about the environment. It’s one of the best airlines globally, providing a special travel experience that reflects New Zealand’s values of care and respect for others, known as Manaakitanga.

Network Connectivity: Air New Zealand ranges over 40 destinations across 20 countries, with its primary hubs at Auckland Airport (AKL), Christchurch, and Wellington. They primarily focus on Connecting New Zealand to key destinations in:

• Australia
• Asia
• North America
• The Pacific Islands
• Air New Zealand offers onward connections through partnerships with other airlines like Star Alliance.

Customer Service: Air New Zealand prioritizes warm and friendly service that reflects the essence of Manaakitanga.

• They offer various amenities like:
  • Complimentary amenity kits on long-haul flights
  • Noise-canceling headphones in Business and Premium Economy Class
  • Comfortable seating with ample legroom and personal entertainment systems across all cabin classes
• Additionally, Air New Zealand offers unique onboard experiences like:
  • Kia Kaha menu: Serving modern New Zealand food made with local ingredients.
  • They are known for small gestures like offering passengers a warm towel and a piece of New Zealand chocolate upon boarding.

Fleet: Air New Zealand maintains a modern fleet exceeding 100 aircraft. They use Fuel-efficient models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A320neo, contributing to a more sustainable approach to air travel.

Awards History:

9) Korean Air:

Korean Air started in 1962 and has become a major player in Asian aviation. They’re not just about flying people from one place to another; they represent Korean hospitality and promise a trip that’s both classy and efficient.

Network connectivity: Korean Air also boasts an extensive network ranging over 120 destinations across 45 countries. They act as a central hub in Asia, connecting you to:

• Europe
• North America
• Oceania

Working closely with other airlines, such as SkyTeam, improves your travel experience by giving you more options for connecting flights. This makes traveling easier and less stressful because you have more choices and connections available.

Customer Service: Korean Air provides great customer service based on the spirit of Jeong, offering personalized care and understanding of what passengers need. They help before and during flights in many languages, focusing on making passengers comfortable and happy. With lots of entertainment and tasty food, Korean Air makes sure your trip is enjoyable. If you have any worries, their special team quickly helps you out, showing they care about making passengers feel welcome.

Fleet: Korean Air maintains a modern and diverse fleet exceeding 120 aircraft featuring:

• Fuel-efficient models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 XWB. The fleet comprises a mix of wide-body and narrow-body aircraft:

Wide-body aircraft: Primarily used for long-haul routes and offering increased passenger capacity and enhanced comfort. These include models like the Airbus A380, known for its double-decker design and spacious cabin, and the Boeing 777, offering various configurations for passenger and cargo transportation.

Narrow-body aircraft: Primarily used for shorter regional routes, they focus on fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness. These include models like the Airbus A220 and A321, known for their comfortable seating and modern amenities.

Awards History:

10) Lufthansa:

Established in 1953 and based in Cologne, Germany, Lufthansa is a big name in the worldwide airline business. It has a connection to the pre-World War II airline Deutsche Luft Hansa but became its own company after the war. Nowadays, Lufthansa represents Germany as its main airline, with a wide-reaching network and a significant role in European aviation.

Network Connectivity: Lufthansa boasts a massive global network spanning over 230 destinations across more than 80 countries. Their primary hub at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) acts as a central point, connecting you to:

• Major cities across Europe
• Key destinations in North and South America
• Africa, Asia, and the Middle East

Lufthansa gives you more travel choices by teaming up with other airlines, such as Star Alliance. This partnership lets you reach more places for your connecting flights, making your travel options wider.

Customer Service: Their crew, known for their professionalism, efficiency, and multilingual capabilities, strives to make you feel welcome and valued.

• They offer various amenities like:
  • Online check-in and seat selection for increased convenience.
  • Comfortable seating with ample legroom and personal entertainment systems across all cabin classes.
  • Complimentary amenity kits and noise-canceling headphones in Business and First Class.
  • Access to exclusive airport lounges for Business and First Class passengers, offering comfortable relaxation areas, refreshments, and business facilities.
• Additionally, Lufthansa offers special services for families with children and passengers with disabilities, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for everyone.

Fleet: Lufthansa also prioritizes environmentally conscious operations by incorporating fuel-efficient models like, The Airbus A350 XWB is recognized for its reduced fuel consumption, spacious cabins, advanced entertainment systems, and improved air quality, making it ideal for long-haul flights. Similarly, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner stands out as another fuel-efficient option, boasting cutting-edge technology that contributes to a more sustainable travel experience.

Awards History:

Top 10 Airlines in the World (2024): A Comparative Table

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