The Best International Airlines for Travelers in 2025
Readers’ picks for the best international airlines haven’t changed much over the past few years. Consistent excellent service puts many of the same 10 winners at the forefront of air travel. The airlines that made this year’s list, as voted by our readers, set the standard for exceedingly comfortable (and actually enjoyable) long-haul flights.
Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, readers are asked to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe and to share their opinions on the top airlines, hotels, resorts, and more. In the airlines category, carriers are rated on cabin comfort, service, food, customer service, and value.
Once again, Emirates secured the No. 2 spot, thanks to outstanding service and little luxuries even in economy class. One fan exclaimed, “I didn’t want to get off the plane after a 15-hour flight.” In-flight meals are described as top-notch with one reader noting, “Food is taken seriously on Emirates.”
Airlines based in the Middle East and Asia dominated the list. Qatar Airways and Japan Airlines (JAL) won the No 3. and No. 4 spots, respectively, for the second year in a row. A frequent flier praised Qatar, stating it’s the “best service I’ve experienced in over 40 years of business and personal air travel.” Moreover, another pointed to its attentive service. “I liked being asked when I would like my food served and liked having my bed made and given pajamas,” the reader shared. “It was an experience I am sure I will never get on any other airline.”
Another Japanese airline, All Nippon Airways (ANA), also made a repeat appearance at No. 7. The company recently added the world’s largest wide-body plane to its fleet. Additionally, there was one surprise newcomer to the list: the all-business-class La Compagnie, which comes in at No. 10.
Read on to discover the not-so-surprising reigning champion and for the full list of winners.
10. La Compagnie
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Score: 83.30
More information: lacompagnie.com
9. Cathay Pacific Airways
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WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 83.36
More information: cathaypacific.com
8. Korean Air
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Score: 83.91
More information: koreanair.com
7. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
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Score: 84.90
More information: ana.co.jp
6. Air New Zealand
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WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 85.31
More information: airnewzealand.com
5. EVA Air
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Score: 85.65
More information: evaair.com
4. Japan Airlines (JAL)
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Score: 86.57
More information: jal.co.jp
3. Qatar Airways
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WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 88.51
More information: qatarairways.com
2. Emirates
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WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 88.55
More information: emirates.com
1. Singapore Airlines
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WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 89.28
More information: singaporeair.com
There’s a reason Singapore Airlines continues to be ranked No. 1; it all comes down to comfort. The airline operates one of the world’s longest flights—an almost 19-hour journey between Singapore Changi Airport and Newark Airport in greater New York City. Additionally, staffers are known to overlook no detail. One loyal passenger shared after flying from the American West to Tokyo many times: “Even flying coach makes you feel like you’re having a luxury experience. The service is excellent; they just keep feeding you (lots!), the entertainment options are endless and all-inclusive, and the plane is beautiful and comfortable. I’m always surprised when it’s actually the most budget-friendly option as well.”