Hey there, fellow travelers! If you love flying as much as we do, you’re in for a treat. AirlineRatings.com has just unveiled the 2025 World’s Best Airline Awards, and this year’s lineup is all about comfort, innovation, and a few exciting twists along the way. Forget popularity contests—these awards are based on real passenger feedback, consistent performance across route networks, and that all-important in-flight experience.
A Fresh Twist: Introducing Hybrid Airlines
In addition to the classic full-service and low-cost categories, 2025 sees the debut of a brand-new category: Best Hybrid Airlines. These carriers are blending the best aspects of full-service amenities with the cost efficiency of low-cost models. As AirlineRatings CEO Sharon Petersen put it, hybrid airlines are being recognized for their innovative operations and the significant positive impact they’re making in the travel industry.
The Big Winner: Airline of The Year 2025
Drumroll, please… The coveted Airline of The Year 2025 goes to none other than Korean Air!
Why Korean Air? It’s all in the details. This airline has turned heads (and necks—in a good way!) by keeping Economy Class extra comfy with industry-leading seat pitches of 33–34 inches on their wide-body aircraft. Add to that thoughtful touches like slippers and generous meal portions on long-haul flights, and you’ve got a recipe for success. Plus, their financial stability, the groundbreaking merger with Asiana Airlines, and investments in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft seal the deal as a true industry leader.
Top 25 Full Service Airlines for 2025
For those who prefer a bit more luxury and service throughout their journey, here’s the list of the best full-service airlines this year:
- Korean Air
- Qatar
- Air New Zealand
- Cathay Pacific
- Singapore Airlines
- Emirates
- Japan Airlines
- Qantas
- Etihad
- Turkish Airlines
- EVA Air
- Fiji Airways
- Virgin Atlantic
- ANA
- Aero Mexico
- Air Caraibes
- Thai Airways
- STARLUX Airlines
- Vietnam Airlines
- Sri Lankan Airlines
- Air France
- KLM (note: the airline is trialling a hybrid model on some routes)
- Air Calin
- Air Mauritius
- Garuda Indonesia
Top 20 Hybrid Airlines for 2025
If you’re into the best of both worlds, check out these hybrid champions that mix comfort with cost-effectiveness:
- Jetblue
- Westjet
- Virgin Australia
- Delta Airlines
- United
- American Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Air Canada
- LOT Polish Airlines (currently under change and may soon be full service)
- TAP Portugal
- Alaska Airlines
- SWISS
- Avianca
- Iberia
- British Airways
- Finnair
- Austrian Airlines
- Hawaiian
- ITA
- SAS
Top 20 Low Cost Airlines for 2025
And for the budget-savvy globetrotters, here are the top low-cost airlines that keep things affordable without skimping on service:
- AirAsia (my personal favourite LCC)
- Jetstar
- AirBaltic
- HK Express
- Easyjet
- FlyDubai
- Ryanair
- Scoot
- Breeze
- Southwest
- SKY Airline
- FlyNas
- TUI
- Norwegian
- Indi GO
- Air Arabia
- Volaris
- Jet2
- Wizz
- Vueling
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a frequent flyer who demands full-service luxury, someone looking for that smart hybrid balance, or a traveler on a budget, with awards based on real-world comfort, safety, and innovation, it’s clear that the aviation world is soaring to new heights this year.
So, next time you’re booking a flight, keep these top picks in mind—they just might make your journey that much more enjoyable. Happy travels and see you in the skies!
