Every year, travelers from around the globe cast their votes to recognize the airlines that deliver the best flying experiences. In the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards, more than 750,000 travelers shared their opinions with CN Traveler, celebrating the carriers that consistently combine comfort, service, and innovation. From Asia to Europe and the Americas, these airlines set the standards for how the world wants to fly.
The Best in Asia
Asia remains a powerhouse in global aviation, home to many of the world’s top-rated airlines. Leading the way once again is Singapore Airlines, a carrier that has turned air travel into an art form. Known for its calm, detail-oriented service and some of the most comfortable cabins in the sky, Singapore Airlines continues to dominate. Its signature route—New York to Singapore—remains the world’s longest nonstop flight at nearly 19 hours. Onboard, passengers are treated to farm-to-plane meals, spa-inspired wellness programs, and quiet luxury that keeps it at the top year after year.
Close behind is Qatar Airways, which continues to impress travelers with its sleek fleet and world-class business class—known as QSuite. The design allows couples or families to dine and rest together in private pods, a feature few airlines can match. The airline’s hub in Doha is equally impressive, offering a futuristic airport experience with high-end lounges and spa facilities.
Another Asian standout, ANA (All Nippon Airways), is admired for its polite, efficient staff and spotless aircraft. Whether flying economy or business class, passengers appreciate the thoughtful service, clean design, and even small touches like comfortable lighting and soothing music during boarding. Similarly, Japan Airlines (JAL) continues to balance tradition and technology with its smooth service and carefully curated Japanese cuisine. For families, JAL goes the extra mile with special meals and toys for children, making long-haul flights more enjoyable for everyone.
Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s flagship airline, also earns high praise for its blend of hospitality and innovation. The airline is known for its refined menus featuring local flavors like braised pork ribs and dim sum, and even brews its own craft beer—designed to taste better at cruising altitude. Finally, Korean Air continues to charm passengers with its modern fleet, friendly cabin crew, and unique partnerships, including its viral in-flight safety video featuring K-pop sensations BTS. Together, these airlines highlight Asia’s continued dominance in hospitality and precision—where flying still feels like a true luxury experience.
The Best in the Middle East
For the Middle East, Emirates remains the gold standard. Based in Dubai, the airline has built its name around comfort and class. Its Airbus A380 jets feature onboard bars, showers in first class, and seat-back entertainment systems offering thousands of channels. Even in the economy, passengers appreciate the roomy seats and excellent meal service. In recent years, Emirates also launched a premium economy class that brings many business-class touches—like fine dining and plush leather seats—to a more affordable price point.
Not far behind, Turkish Airlines continues to rise as one of the most connected airlines in the world. With its hub in Istanbul, it bridges Europe, Asia, and the Americas, making it a favorite for international travelers. Turkish Airlines is especially famous for its food, offering full meals that taste like they came from a fine restaurant rather than a galley. The airline also offers a generous stopover program, giving travelers free hotel stays in Istanbul, turning a layover into an adventure.
The Best in Europe
Europe’s top performers this year combine tradition with modern upgrades. SWISS International Air Lines continues to shine for its precision and elegance. The airline is introducing its new Airbus A350-900s featuring the “SWISS Senses” cabin—designed to reduce jet lag and increase comfort with personalized lighting and spacious seating. Business and first-class travelers can even enjoy private suites with sliding doors, a first for the airline.
Another standout, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, continues to charm with its efficient service and modern fleet. As one of the world’s oldest carriers, KLM has mastered the balance between heritage and innovation. With the introduction of new Airbus A321neo aircraft, travelers can expect quieter cabins, lie-flat seats, and improved sustainability through fuel-efficient engines.
Over in the United Kingdom, Virgin Atlantic continues to embody a fun, youthful energy. Known for its vibrant design and laid-back luxury, the airline offers premium economy cabins with hot towels, cocktails, and excellent food service. Its famous “Upper Class” seats still rank among the most comfortable in the sky, and the new routes between London and major U.S. cities are helping it expand its global footprint.
The Best in Oceania
Qantas, Australia’s flag carrier, once again proves that long-haul comfort can be both stylish and reliable. The airline has been working toward Project Sunrise, a bold plan to operate nonstop flights from Sydney to New York—nearly 20 hours in the air. Until then, passengers already enjoy its world-class service, featuring menus by celebrity chef Neil Perry and award-winning Australian wines. Qantas’ premium economy and business cabins continue to win over passengers for their space and relaxed atmosphere, making even the longest journeys feel manageable.
Meanwhile, Air New Zealand stands out for its creativity. Its “Skycouch” feature—rows of economy seats that convert into a small bed—is a game changer for families and couples. The Kiwi airline also shines for its warm hospitality and playful spirit, blending professionalism with the relaxed charm New Zealand is known for.
The Best in North America
North America may not have as many carriers in the global top ten, but one boutique airline stands out—La Compagnie. Based in Paris but flying primarily between the U.S. and Europe, this all-business-class airline offers a truly unique experience. With just 76 lie-flat seats on each aircraft, La Compagnie gives passengers luxury service at a fraction of the usual cost. Free Wi-Fi, champagne tastings, and Michelin-inspired meals make it a hidden gem for travelers who want comfort without the sky-high price tag.
This year’s Readers’ Choice Awards reveal that travelers are valuing more than just the destination—they’re celebrating the journey itself. The best airlines of 2025 share a few things in common: genuine service, thoughtful design, and a willingness to innovate.
Whether you’re flying across continents or just across the sea, these airlines make sure your time in the air feels just as rewarding as the place you’re heading to. Stay tuned with us for further updates, and follow us on social media for the latest news in the aviation world.
