In the incredibly competitive world of air travel, the airlines that win our hearts (and our loyalty) are those that are reliable, have personality, and strive to impress. To travelers, that may mean regional and artisanal snacks, in-flight entertainment that actually keeps you occupied, or stellar customer service. Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise lines, spas, airlines, and more. In the airlines category, readers rated carriers on cabin comfort, service, food, customer service, and value. The domestic carriers that do this best are continuing to perfect their formula.
Top Airlines of 2023
Many of this year’s World’s Best airlines also ranked high on last year’s list. Top marks in all characteristics helped buoy the winners above even the legacy carriers. After all, Southwest Airlines has charmed frequent fliers with its generosity (two free checked bags, no fees for changed or canceled flights) and a killer rewards program. Hawaiian Airlines has announced significant plans to provide every passenger with a good night’s sleep, with new lie-flat seats in premium cabins and toiletries with soothing tropical scents. JetBlue Airways, another World’s Best Award–winning airline, is known for its exciting flash sales and unexpected rewards for passengers. Perhaps the biggest story this year is the acquisition of Virgin America — a repeat No. 1 winner — by Alaska Airlines. This move has propelled Alaska Airlines up from No. 5 in 2015 to No. 4 in the 2016 survey.
No. 5 Southwest Airlines
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Score: 76.47
No. 4 Alaska Airlines
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Score: 76.92
No. 3 Hawaiian Airlines
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Score: 77.86
No. 2 JetBlue Airways
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Score: 79.88
No. 1 Virgin America
Score: 83.59
It’s been a big year for Virgin America, which has held on to its No. 1 position. When Alaska Airlines announced in April that it intended to acquire the San Francisco–based carrier, fans fretted Virgin America would lose its personal touch. However, we hope its best qualities continue: snack trolleys stocked with Hail Merry macaroons and friendly employees with a sense of humor. The airline is also known for its hilarious in-flight safety videos. “Virgin America is just pure fun to fly,” said one voter. “It’s the only airline I’ve ever flown where a captain has walked the aisles to greet passengers.”
