World’s Best Airlines of 2025: Service, Innovation, and Sustainability Lead the Way

World’s Best Airlines of 2025.  See who topped the global rankings and who offers the best cabin crew service?

The 2025 World Airline Awards spotlight key industry trends like sustainability and digital services.  The event took place on June 17th at the Air and Space Museum in Paris.

Over 500 airline executives gathered to celebrate service excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.  Often called “the Oscars of aviation,” the awards highlight the growing demand for premium travel experiences and eco-conscious solutions.

Organized by Skytrax, the awards are based on independent surveys with millions of passenger votes.  In the post-pandemic travel boom, the results underscore the industry’s adaptability.  Sustainability and digitalization have emerged as key priorities, reshaping the aviation sector.

Qatar Airways Soars to New Heights

Qatar Airways claimed the prestigious title of World’s Best Airline for the ninth time.  It also won Best Business Class, Best Airline in the Middle East, and World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge.

The Group CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer expressed pride in the achievement.  “Being named the World’s Best Airline for the ninth time is an extraordinary honor.”  He added that these awards reflect the relentless efforts of their people across every department.  The airline is committed to exceptional service, whether on the ground or in the air.

Qatar Airways’ continued success signals a shift in consumer expectations.  Passengers now prioritize seamless, elevated experiences.  From innovative lounges to next-level business class amenities, Qatar Airways sets a new standard in premium service.

Singapore Airlines Shines with Unmatched Service and Innovation

Singapore Airlines won the World’s Best Cabin Crew and Best First Class awards, cementing its leadership in passenger service.  The airline also claimed Best Airline in Asia, further reinforcing its status in a competitive market.

Embracing sustainability and digitalization, Singapore Airlines focuses on reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the customer experience through technology.

The airline integrates personalized in-flight services and mobile apps for contactless boarding, meeting the demand for eco-conscious, tech-savvy travel.

STARLUX Airlines: A Rising Star in Aviation

STARLUX Airlines, named World’s Most Improved Airline, has quickly impressed the industry.  Founded just five years ago, the Taiwanese carrier earned its first 5-Star Airline rating.

The airline’s rise shows how new carriers can disrupt traditional norms.  Glenn Chai, STARLUX’s CEO said receiving the 5-Star award encourages everyone at STARLUX.  Their growth reflects their team’s dedication and passengers’ trust.

Air Transat: A Triple Win in Leisure Travel

As leisure travel rebounds post-pandemic, Air Transat claimed the title of World’s Best Leisure Airline for the third consecutive year.  The Canadian carrier’s success speaks to the growing trend of travelers seeking unique, personalized holiday experiences.

In this competitive category, Air Transat’s focus on customer service and memorable journeys continues to set it apart.  Pamela Lloyd-Bergeron, Director of In-Flight Service, said that this recognition reflects their ongoing commitment to excellent service and ensuring passengers have memorable journeys.

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AirAsia: Dominating the Low-Cost Sector

AirAsia has retained its title as World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for 16 years, setting a global benchmark.  The airline is approaching its one billionth guest, reflecting the rising demand for affordable, quality air travel.

Tony Fernandes, CEO of AirAsia, praised the Allstars for their hard work.  He credited their growth from 200,000 guests to almost one billion to passenger trust and team dedication.

Best Airlines 2025 Rankings Across Global Regions

The 2025 World Airline Awards recognized excellence across the globe.  Air Canada earned Best Airline in North America, while Delta Airlines won Best Airline Staff Service in the region.

Air France claimed several awards, including Best Airline in Western Europe and World’s Best First Class Comfort Amenities. Its Paris CDG lounge was also recognized for best first-class dining.

Turkish Airlines triumphed as Best Airline in Europe, excelling in both premium and economy services.  ANA All Nippon Airways stood out for its superior airport services and won numerous accolades in Asia.

Qantas Airways was awarded the Best Airline in Australia/Pacific followed by Air New Zealand.  Ethiopian Airlines earned Best Airline in Africa for the seventh year in a row, showcasing its commitment to world-class service.

Other Regional Airline Awards:

• China: Hainan Airlines
• India/South Asia: IndiGo
• Central Asia/CIS: Air Astana
• South America: LATAM
• Central America/Caribbean: Copa Airlines
• Eastern Europe: LOT Polish Airlines
• Northern Europe: Finnair
• Southern Europe: Turkish Airlines

Sustainability and Innovation: A New Era for Airlines

Airlines are embracing digital transformation and sustainability as key priorities. Passengers are increasingly seeking carriers that demonstrate environmental responsibility.

Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways have significantly reduced their carbon footprints, adopting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and using new technologies to make travel more efficient and eco-friendly.

Sustainability has become just as important as in-flight entertainment or gourmet dining. Airlines that effectively combine service excellence with sustainability are well-positioned for long-term success.

Why Asian Airlines Lead in Cabin Crew Excellence

Asian airlines dominate the top cabin crew rankings for a reason.  Singapore Airlines, ANA, Cathay Pacific, and Garuda Indonesia all prioritize hospitality.

Their service is rooted in values like respect, attentiveness, and care, deeply embedded in Asian cultures.

They invest heavily in training and personal service, which elevates the overall passenger experience.  Moreover, these airlines blend technology and sustainability seamlessly, further solidifying their leadership in the industry.

In an age when passengers seek more than just efficiency, Asian airlines consistently exceed expectations, making air travel feel personal and welcoming.

Looking to the Future: A New Standard for Aviation Excellence

The 2025 World Airline Awards set a new bar for air travel.  Digital tools, sustainable practices, and personalized services reflect the evolving priorities of modern travellers.

Airlines like Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and AirAsia are stepping up to meet today’s dynamic traveler needs.  As the industry continues to evolve, these airlines showcase a commitment to innovation and service that is shaping the future of air travel.

Key Takeaways:

• Qatar Airways claims its ninth title as World’s Best Airline.
• Singapore Airlines and STARLUX Airlines impress with exceptional cabin service and rapid growth.
• The awards highlight the rise of sustainability and digitalization in shaping air travel’s future.
• Air Transat and AirAsia remain dominant in leisure and low-cost sectors, respectively, reflecting growing consumer demand.

The 2025 World Airline Awards underscore how innovation, sustainability, and customer experience continue to shape the aviation industry, offering a glimpse into the future of air travel.

Top 20 World’s Best Airlines

1. Qatar Airways
2. Singapore Airlines
3. Cathay Pacific
4. Emirates
5. ANA All Nippon Airways
6. Turkish Airlines
7. Korean Air
8. Air France
9. Japan Airlines
10. Hainan Airlines
11. Swiss Int’l Air Lines
12. EVA Air
13. British Airways
14. Qantas Airways
15. Lufthansa
16. Virgin Atlantic
17. Saudi Arabian Airlines
18. STARLUX Airlines
19. Air Canada
20. Iberia

Top 10 World’s Best Airlines in Different Categories

Cabin Crew

1. Singapore Airlines
2. ANA All Nippon Airways
3. Cathay Pacific Airways
4. Garuda Indonesia
5. EVA Air
6. Hainan Airlines
7. Japan Airlines
8. Malaysia Airlines
9. Starlux Airlines
10. Korean Air

Low-Cost Airlines

1. AirAsia
2. Scoot
3. Indigo
4. Eurowings
5. Vueling Airlines
6. Volotea
7. Transavia
8. Iberia Express
9. Flynas
10. easyJet

Regional Airlines

1. Bangkok Airways
2. Virgin Australia
3. Porter Airlines
4. Aegean Airlines
5. Azerbaijan Airlines
6. jetBlue Airways
7. Alaska Airlines
8. Hong Kong Airlines
9. RwandAir
10. Royal Air Maroc

Top Three World’s Best Airlines in Different Categories

Most Family Friendly Airlines

1. Lufthansa
2. British Airways
3. Emirates

Cleanest Airlines

1. EVA Air
2. ANA All Nippon Airways
3. Cathay Pacific Airways

 Leisure Airlines

1. Air Transat
2. TUI Airways
3. SunExpress

Airline Inflight Entertainment

1. Cathay Pacific Airways
2. Emirates
3. Qatar Airways

Airport Services

1. ANA All Nippon Airways
2. Japan Airlines
3. EVA Air

Most Improved Airlines

1. Starlux Airlines
2. ITA Airways
3. HK Express

Independent Airport Lounge

1. Plaza Premium – FCO
2. Chase Sapphire Lounge – LGA
3. America Express Centurion – JFK

First Class Airlines

1. Singapore Airlines
2. Emirates
3. Air France

Business Class Airlines

1. Qatar Airways
2. Singapore Airlines
3. Cathay Pacific

Premium Economy Class Airlines

1. Virgin Atlantic
2. Japan Airlines
3. Emirates

Economy Class Airlines

1. Cathay Pacific
2. Qatar Airways
3. Singapore Airlines

The full list of winners is available on the Skytrax website