Airline Ranking: The best airlines in the world

In the fascinating world of international air travel, there are a handful of airlines that have earned an outstanding reputation over the years. But which are actually the best airlines in the world? Which airline offers the best service, and which is considered the safest in the air? These questions move not only passionate frequent flyers, but also travelers in search of the optimal flight experience.

In this blog article, we will take a closer look at the top 20 airlines worldwide that shine in the prestigious rankings of Skytrax’s World Airline Awards and Airlineratings.com’s Airline Excellence Awards. Join us on an exciting journey through the skies to find out which airline holds the coveted #1 position and which carrier stands out for excellent service and safety. Find out which airlines made it to the top of the podium in 2023 here.

Airline Ranking – These are the best 20 airlines in the world

Which airline is ranked #1? Which is the best airline in the world? Which airline is the most reliable? In the following sections, we will take a closer look at these questions and introduce you to the top performers in the industry. Skytrax’s World Airline Awards and Airlineratings.com’s Airline Excellence Awards are among the most prestigious awards in the airline industry. Each year, they honor the best airlines worldwide. These awards are based on detailed analyses of flight safety, customer service, product offering and innovation.

At the top of the 2023 ranking is Singapore Airlines, followed by Qatar Airways and ANA All Nippon Airways in second and third place. Emirates and Japan Airlines secure fourth and fifth places, while Turkish Airlines, Air France, Cathay Pacific Airways, EVA Air and Korean Air also feature in the top ten. Other notable airlines that made it into the ranking include Hainan Airlines, Swiss International Airlines, Etihad Airways, Iberia, Fiji Airways, Vistara, Qantas Airways, British Airways, Air New Zealand and Delta Air Lines. Learn more about the world’s top airlines and their outstanding achievements.

1. Singapore Airlines – Excellent customer service and luxury flights worldwide”.

Singapore Airlines is the national airline of the Republic of Singapore and is known for its outstanding service and luxurious travel experience. It is regularly ranked among the best airlines in the world and enjoys an excellent reputation among passengers. The airline operates from its hub at Singapore Changi Airport and offers a variety of international flights to various destinations. Singapore Airlines stands out for its pursuit of excellence and offers passengers comfortable seats, delicious meals and first-class entertainment options.

2. Qatar Airways – World-class in-flight service and first-class connections.

Qatar Airways is the national airline of the State of Qatar and the proud winner of the Skytrax Airline of the Year 2022 Award. With over 150 destinations, the airline offers an extensive route network for passengers worldwide. Qatar Airways is headquartered in the Qatar Airways Tower in Doha and is a member of the oneworld alliance. The airline places great emphasis on comfort, first-class cuisine and a trend-setting in-flight product. It is known for its luxurious travel experiences and stands for excellent service.

3. ANA All Nippon Airways – punctuality and excellent service

ANA All Nippon Airways is a Japanese airline based in Tokyo. It offers flights to about 50 destinations within Japan and 32 international destinations. As Japan’s largest airline and a member of the Star Alliance, ANA is characterized by outstanding service and Japanese hospitality. The airline places great emphasis on comfort and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. With a long history and excellent reputation, ANA stands for quality and reliability in the aviation industry.

4. emirates – luxury and first-class comfort in aviation”.

Emirates Airways is one of the two flagship airlines of the United Arab Emirates. Based in Dubai, the airline offers an extensive global route network and stands for first-class service and luxury travel. Emirates is known for its modern aircraft, comfortable seats and exquisite in-flight catering. With a fleet of 256 aircraft, it is one of the largest airlines in the Middle East. The airline is committed to innovation and even has Airbus A380s in service that could remain in the skies for another 20 years.

5. Japan Airlines – Highest reliability and hospitality in aviation.

Japan Airlines (JAL) is the national carrier of Japan and one of the country’s best-known airlines. Headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, JAL offers domestic and international flights to over 80 destinations in more than 20 countries. The airline places great emphasis on tradition, quality and first-class service. As a member of the oneworld alliance, JAL stands for global connectivity and seamless travel experiences. The airline is known for providing the highest level of comfort and hospitality to its passengers. From excellent in-flight catering to modern aircraft, Japan Airlines is a popular choice for travelers who expect the highest standards.

6. turkish airlines – bridge between orient and occident with excellent service

Turkish Airlines is the flag carrier of Turkey and offers an extensive route network to more than 120 countries worldwide. With a foundation in 1933 and a fleet of 328 aircraft, Turkish Airlines has grown steadily and is now part of the Star Alliance. The airline stands out for its variety of travel options and unique experiences. From flight bookings to hotel reservations and car rentals, Turkish Airlines offers a comprehensive travel experience. In addition, the airline recently completed a large order for the purchase of 10 Airbus A350 long-range jets, indicating its continued growth and commitment to quality. Turkish Airlines is a renowned airline that provides first-class service to travelers around the world.

7. air France – elegance and French flair above the clouds

Air France is the national airline of France and is part of the Air France-KLM group. With more than 500 destinations worldwide, Air France offers a wide range of international flights. The airline places great emphasis on comfort and offers its passengers a pleasant travel experience. As a flagship carrier, Air France offers first-class customer service and high-quality in-flight catering. The airline is known for its modern aircraft and its versatility in covering destinations. With its extensive global presence, Air France is a popular choice for travelers looking to fly to France and other parts of the world.

8. Cathay Pacific – Asian flight comfort par excellence

Cathay Pacific is a renowned airline from Hong Kong with a modern fleet of aircraft. The airline offers luxury travel and is one of the best airlines in the world. With over 200 destinations worldwide and attractive offers, Cathay Pacific is a popular choice for travelers. The airline has won several awards for its first-class service and was awarded the title of “World’s Best Overall Airline” by Skytrax. From exclusive first-class experiences to its modern fleet of aircraft, Cathay Pacific stands for quality and comfort.

9. EVA Air – Premium Quality and Asian Hospitality Above the Clouds

EVA Air is a Taiwanese airline company based in Taoyuan International Airport. It is rated 5 stars by the international quality rating organization SKYTRAX and is considered one of the best airlines in the world. As Taiwan’s second largest airline after China Airlines, EVA Air offers flights to more than 70 destinations. The airline places great emphasis on quality, safety and customer service. With a strong presence in the aviation industry, EVA Air provides a comfortable and first-class travel experience for passengers around the world.

10. Korean Air – top quality and top in punctuality

Korean Air is the largest airline in South Korea and a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance. With more than 50 years of experience, it ranks among the top 20 airlines worldwide. Korean Air offers nonstop flights to about 15 domestic destinations and an extensive international route network. The airline is known for its excellent service and has received several awards as a 5-star airline. With its headquarters in Seoul, Korean Air transports millions of passengers worldwide every year.

Affected by a flight delay or cancellation? If your flight departed from or landed in the UK, your claim is valid for 6 years. Even if your flight took place more than 6 years ago, you may still be entitled to a claim. The 6-year period begins from the end of the year in which the incident occurred, e.g. if you had a cancelled flight on 01.01.2017, you can still claim compensation until the end of 2023.
If you had a case of a cancelled or significantly delayed flight during the last 6 years, check your eligibility for compensation before the time runs out!

According to the UK261 Regulation, the amount of compensation is calculated according to the flight distance:

11. Hainan Airlines – Excellent customer service and Chinese flying skills

Hainan Airlines is an airline headquartered in Haikou, Hainan, People’s Republic of China. It is rated as a 5-star airline by Skytrax Award and offers luxury travel experiences. With its worldwide route network, passengers:inside can find great deals to destinations all over the world. The airline places great emphasis on quality and customer service and has won awards for its aircraft cabin, seats and staff. Hainan Airlines is known for its first-class service and offers both passenger:inside and cargo transportation.

12. Swiss International Airlines – Excellent customer service and first-class flight experience with Swiss precision

Swiss International Airlines, also known as SWISS, is the national airline of Switzerland and a subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group. With its main hub in Zurich and Geneva, SWISS offers flights to over 100 destinations worldwide. The airline places great emphasis on quality, reliability and Swiss precision. Passengers can look forward to first-class service and a comfortable flying experience. SWISS is known for its high standards of hygiene and passenger health.

13. Etihad Airways – Comfort, Innovation and Excellent Service for Discerning Travelers

Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates. As one of the country’s two major airlines, Etihad Airways offers luxurious travel experiences and flexible fares. Passengers:inside can manage their bookings online and make changes, including selecting their favorite seat and booking extra baggage. The airline places great emphasis on safety and has introduced additional measures to ensure that passengers feel comfortable and protected when flying. Etihad Airways offers a loyalty program called “Etihad Guest” where members can enjoy unique rewards and benefits.

14. Iberia – Quality, punctuality and unique travel experiences with Spanish passion.

Iberia is the largest airline in Spain, offering flights to over 100 destinations in 39 countries. Based in Madrid, Iberia is known for its Spanish elegance and excellent service. Passengers:inside can choose from a variety of domestic and international destinations and find attractive deals on flights. Iberia is part of the oneworld alliance, offering global accessibility and connections to other renowned airlines worldwide. Travelers can conveniently book their flights on Iberia’s website and benefit from the best price offers.

15. Fiji Airways – Island Excellence and Tropical Flair and Pacific Connections

Fiji Airways is the national airline of Fiji and offers flights to paradise destinations in the South Pacific. The airline was named Best Airline in Australia and the Pacific at the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards in 2023. Passengers:inside can realize their Fiji vacation dreams and fly to the most beautiful islands with Fiji Airways. In addition to international flights, Fiji Airways also operates a subsidiary called Fiji Link, which offers domestic flights and flights to neighboring islands such as Tonga, Samoa and Tuvalu. With excellent service and picturesque surroundings, Fiji Airways makes for unforgettable flying experiences.

16. Vistara – Unique Indian Hospitality and Quality

Vistara is a full-service Indian airline known for its first-class service and comfort. The airline offers three cabin classes, including luxurious meals, complimentary in-flight entertainment and award-winning service. Passengers:inside can conveniently book and check-in for their flights online. Vistara operates flights from its hub, Indira Gandhi International Airport in Gurugram, to various domestic and international destinations.

17. Qantas Airways – Australian aviation excellence and global connections

Qantas Airways is Australia’s flag carrier airline and offers a comprehensive service on all flights. Passengers can look forward to entertainment, refreshments and checked baggage on every Qantas flight. The airline is Australia’s largest airline and has a large fleet and an extensive route network for international flights.

18. British Airways – Highest quality and legendary British hospitality in the air

British Airways (BA) is the flag carrier airline of the United Kingdom. Based in London, England, with its main hub at Heathrow Airport, it offers worldwide flights to over 170 destinations in nearly 80 countries. The airline is known for its outstanding service that provides passengers with a comfortable travel experience. British Airways prides itself on offering high quality flights and vacation packages that can be booked directly through their website.

19. Air New Zealand – Unparalleled hospitality and award-winning service high above the clouds

Air New Zealand is the national airline of New Zealand and offers direct flights to over 20 domestic destinations as well as international destinations. Based in Auckland, the airline serves 30 international destinations in 18 countries, particularly in the Pacific region. The airline is known for its high-quality services and commitment to first-class passenger experiences. In addition to flights, Air New Zealand also offers vacation packages and travel deals.

20. Delta Air Lines – Comfort, Reliability and Unmatched Global Connections

Delta Air Lines is one of the largest airlines in the United States, offering flights to over 300 destinations in 60 countries. As a legacy carrier and one of the oldest airlines in the world, Delta has a long history in the aviation industry. The airline offers both domestic and international flights and is known for its reputation for on-time arrivals, service and comfort.

World’s Best Cabin Crew 2023

• Garuda Indonesia
• Singapore Airlines
• ANA All Nippon Airways
• EVA Air
• Hainan Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Cathay Pacific
• Thai Airways
• Emirates
• Japan Airlines

World’s Best Low-Cost Airlines 2023

• AirAsia
• Scoot
• Indigo
• Flynas
• Volotea
• Transavia France
• Sun Country Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• airBaltic
• Jet2.com
• easyJet
• Vueling Airlines
• Ryanair
• Jetstar Airways
• flyDubai

FAQs: Top Airlines

Which airline has the best service?

The airlines ranked top by Skytrax and Airlineratings.com also received top marks for service. The top performers include Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand and many more.

Which is the safest airline in the world?

Hamburg-based aviation safety agency JACDEC and aviation magazine Aero International have named the safest airlines. The results show that Finnair won the title just ahead of Scoot Tigerair and Norwegian Air Shuttle. Unfortunately, there is no German airline in the top 10. According to Airlineratings.com, Qantas, Air New Zealand and Etihad Airways are the safest airlines in the latest ranking of 2023.

Which airline is ranked #1?

According to Skytrax, the renowned airline rating agency, Singapore Airlines holds first place as the world’s best airline. In second place is Qatar Airways, followed by ANA All Nippon Airways in third place. Emirates secures fourth place and Japan Airlines fifth in the ranking of the best airlines worldwide.

Which airline is the best for long-haul flights?

The best airlines for long-haul flights, selected by Skytrax and Airlineratings.com, include Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates and many more.

What are the 10 best airlines in 2023?

The World’s Top 10 Airlines According to Skytrax In June 2023, Skytrax, the prestigious rating platform, selected its World’s Top 10 Airlines of 2023, that is, the best airlines in the world, and Singapore Airlines takes the first place. In second place is Qatar Airways, followed by ANA All Nippon Airways in third place. Emirates and Japan Airlines secure fourth and fifth places, respectively. Other airlines in the top 10 are Turkish Airlines, Air France, Cathay Pacific Airways, EVA Air and Korean Air.

The world’s best airlines according to airlineratings.com Airlineratings.com also saw some changes compared to last year, including in the top position. Air New Zealand was named the best airline by Airlineratings.com, followed by Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways. Korean Air and Singapore Airlines ranked fourth and fifth, respectively, in this international airline ranking. Qantas, Virgin Australia, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific Airways and Emirates complete the list of the world’s best airlines according to the Airline Excellence Awards.

In the following table, you can see which other airlines the two rating portals voted into the top 20:

Sources: https://www.airlineratings.com/airline-ratings/
https://www.airlineratings.com/news/top-twenty-five-airlines-for-2023/

Conclusion: Airline Ranking – The best airlines in the world

The world of air travel has evolved rapidly in recent decades, and passengers today expect more than just a comfortable flight from A to B. The annual election of the top airlines is eagerly awaited, although in recent years the three airlines from Qatar, Singapore and the Emirates have regularly shared the top three spots. Lufthansa was the only German airline in the top 20 in recent years, according to Skytrax. Although it was ranked 15th last year, it has now slipped to 21st. In contrast, low-cost airlines such as Easyjet and Ryanair only achieved 65th and 68th place.