The 16 Best Airline Brands in the World

The global airline industry has continued its recovery, with air travel demand and passenger numbers rising significantly in 2022 & 2023 after pandemic lows. According to International Air Transport Association (IATA) data, global passenger traffic is expected to reach 100% of pre-Covid levels in 2024 with over 4 billion passengers.

With air travel rebounding, airline brands around the world are focused on rebuilding passenger volumes while also concentrating on service quality, operational excellence and profitability. But after a turbulent few years, which airlines are truly soaring highest when it comes to consumer and industry perceptions of their brand?

To identify today’s leading airline brands, we compiled data and rankings from independent aviation rating entities like Skytrax as well as analyzing critical reviews in the consumer and travel media. We assessed airlines based on key benchmarks including operational performance, passenger ratings across cabins, aircraft quality, lounge quality, safety, sustainability efforts and more over the past two years.

From Gulf-region luxury airlines to efficient low-cost carriers, we break down the 16 most exemplary, highest-rated airline brands across the globe.

How the Best Airline Brands Were Determined

Here are the key ranking factors and criteria used for evaluating the best airline brands worldwide:

• Passenger Experience Ratings: Using data and reviews from trusted aviation quality rating entities like Skytrax, APEX, and AirlineRatings, we assess overall passenger satisfaction across cabins. Airlines must have a 4-star or higher rating.
• Operational Performance: Using OAG Aviation’s industry flight data analytics, we analyze key metrics like on-time performance, flight completion, baggage handling and aircraft downtime rates over the past 2 years.
• Market cap & Financial Viability: Airlines must demonstrate a viable path back to profitability after pandemic losses plus have adequate liquidity, market capitalization and backing to weather industry downturns.
• Cabin Innovation: Airlines making standout investments in new seat classes, upgrading amenities and entertainment and refining service quality standards score highly.
• Commitment to Sustainability: Eco-conscious programs to reduce carbon emissions, operational waste and noise pollution are key ranking positives.
• Aircraft Safety & Maintenance: Airlines passing highest International Air Transport Association safety audits and displaying continued upgrades to latest aviation technology rank better.

Overview of Each Airline Brand Ranked

Below we present a detailed overview of the 16 leading airline brands, emphasizing what distinguishes each one. This overview focuses on the unique strengths and reputations of each airline, showcasing what sets them apart in the industry.

#16 Delta Air Lines (United States)

Representing USA mainline aviation with its signature friendly Southern hospitality is Atlanta-headquartered Delta Air Lines.

Delta Air Lines has achieved a Skytrax 3-Star rating, acknowledging the quality of its airport and onboard services and products.

Delta Air Lines Inc. (DAL) effectively navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic, as evidenced by its impressive financial performance in 2023. The company reported record revenue and pre-tax income for the full year, showcasing its resilience and strategic adaptability in a period marked by unprecedented disruptions in the airline industry.

The airline has a strong reputation for punctuality. The airline consistently ranks high for on-time arrivals, which is a critical factor for travelers.

Now with travel rebounding, Delta excels operationally with industry leading completion percentages, baggage handling and punctuality metrics while also notching an impressive airline brand score in surveys . Delta also continues advancing cabin innovations like premium economy rollouts.

#15 Ryanair (Ireland)

As Europe’s largest low-cost airline, Ryanair makes ultra-affordable air travel possible for millions annually. The airline makes up 50% of traffic across Ireland and UK regional airports with its ultra-efficient fleet. Ryanair rebounds faster than any European carrier thanks to its focus on ancillary revenue streams.

Ryanair has been awarded a 3-Star rating by Skytrax as a Low-Cost Airline, recognizing its performance and service quality within the budget airline category.

Renowned for offering some of the most competitive fares in the industry, Ryanair has become a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Though lacking frills, Ryanair delivers value, efficiency and route options galore. The airline aims to grow its fleet to 600 planes by mid-decade to hit 200 million annual passengers across Europe and key holiday destinations like Morocco, Cyprus and Jordan.

#14 Austrian Airlines (Austria)

Austrian Airlines, also known as AUA, is the flag carrier of Austria and a subsidiary within the Lufthansa Group. Though it may lack some of the global brand recognition of other European flag carriers, Austrian Airlines consistently punches above its weight when it comes to providing quality service and a premier passenger experience.

The Vienna-based airline currently flies to over 120 destinations in 55 countries, specializing in serving popular ski and summer holiday destinations in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Though most of its traffic is centered around the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), Austrian also connects Austria to key eastern European gateways.

Austrian Airlines has bounced back incredibly well from the ravages of COVID-19, which severely impacted the airline industry. Thanks to comprehensive financial support from parent company Lufthansa and the Austrian government, capacity cuts were minimized. The airline revamped service offerings and forged innovative partnerships with tourism boards to incentivize travel.

As a Skytrax 4-star airline, Austrian provides a premium service experience regardless of booking class. The airline excels at regional cuisine, frequently rotating special dishes that celebrate Austria’s culinary heritage – like Wiener schnitzel and apple strudel. Paired with Austrian wines even in economy, it’s a supremely tasteful way to fly.

Next up on our world airline brand power rankings rundown is Australian carrier, Qantas.

#13 Qantas Airways (Australia)

Flying kangaroo symbol in tow, As a Skytrax 4-star airline Qantas Airways is Australia’s largest airline and undisputed flag carrier. The airline’s heritage stretches back over 100 years with pioneering achievements like inaugurating the famous “Kangaroo Route” flights between Australia and the UK.

While 2020 brought the toughest year yet for Qantas as international borders slammed shut, the airline has rebounded remarkably thanks to Australian tourism resurgence. Qantas returned to profits in first half 2023 driven by strong domestic and regional demand as travel restrictions eased up.

Yet Qantas isn’t just cruising on pent-up Aussie travel demand – it has doubled down on improving service quality and operational efficiency. The airline leads globally when it comes to flight completion percentages and baggage handling accuracy per OAG aviation figures .

Internationally configured aircraft complete extensive maintenance upgrades while grounded during pandemic border closures – ensuring cabins meet modern expectations. Qantas also pursued strategic partnerships that expand route reach like the landmark Project Sunrise deal with Airbus.

With the flying icon of Australian aviation back running on all cylinders, the future looks bright for Qantas to keep excelling operationally while capturing renewed international passenger growth.

Up next at #12 in our global airline brand power rankings is Turkish Airlines.

#12 Turkish Airlines (Turkey)

Rising up the ranks of leading global carriers is Turkish Airlines – the ambitious national airline of Turkey. Turkish Airlines has undergone massive expansion over the past 20 years, leveraging Istanbul’s geographical position between Europe and Asia to become a globally connected megahub.

Turkish Airlines has been accredited as a 4-Star Airline by Skytrax. This distinction is given in recognition of the airline’s quality in airport and onboard services, and its commitment to providing excellent customer service.

As of 2023, Turkish Airlines flies to over 300 destinations – giving Gulf carriers fierce competition for longhaul transit traffic. Though COVID caused temporary pullbacks, Turkish Airlines has bounced back strongly on surging travel demand between Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

The airline excels at offering quality service and competitive economy class fares. Longhaul business class was recently revamped with fully-flat beds and enhanced dining. Turkish also joined the largest airline alliance, Star Alliance, in 2008 – vastly expanding connectivity reach.

The impressive Istanbul airport lounge offers luxury amenities like pool tables, arcade games, and an olive bar – helping cement Turkish as a leading carrier for price-conscious international travelers.

While perhaps not matching the luxury finery of Middle East rivals, Turkish Airlines brings excellent value, improving hospitality standards and extensive route options to global airspace.

#11 Air France (France)

Representing French savoire-faire in the skies, Air France has long set benchmarks for European airlines when it comes to service, style and gastronomy excellence. While the flag carrier took heavy losses early in the pandemic , Air France has come roaring back thanks to its partnership with KLM within the Air France-KLM airline group.

Air France and KLM pool networks, aircraft, lounges and frequent flyer programs while retaining separate brands. Air France caters more towards premium high-yield intercontinental routes while KLM focuses on short-haul shuttles around Europe. It’s a strategic alliance that played a key role in both airlines securing substantial government financial support during COVID-19 struggles.

Now with most global travel markets reopening, Air France is dusting off its reputation for classic French hospitality, cuisine and partitions. Recent cabin upgrades across aircraft types have helped the aging fleet stay competitive too.

Our next featured contender as an exemplary global airline brand is Etihad Airways. Based in UAE, this ambitious carrier connects Europe, Africa and Asia with its growing fleet while aiming to claim global aviation leadership.

Air France is also certified as a 4-Star Airline by Skytrax.

#10 Etihad Airways (United Arab Emirates)

As the second largest airline in the United Arab Emirates after Emirates, Etihad Airways has carved out a niche for itself when it comes to ushering in boutique luxury. The Abu Dhabi-based carrier has gained renown for its new generation cabins across travel classes that place a supreme focus on privacy, space and unmatched comfort.

Etihad Airways has been recognized as a 4-Star Airline by Skytrax. This rating reflects the airline’s commitment to quality in both its airport and onboard services, as well as the excellence of its staff service.

Etihad’s flagship product is its Residence Suite – a lavish 3-room first class suite with private bedroom, shower and lounge space replete with Savoy-trained butler service . But the airline hasn’t neglected premium economy and economy fliers either – rolling out updated cabins like its 787 “Project Sunrise” jet.

While Etihad took substantial losses from COVID impacts to global travel, the airline appears to be rebounding on a new path to profitability. It has shifted focus more on improving yields and loads for existing routes instead of breakneck expansion. Partnerships have bolstered connectivity reach too, like a landmark 2021 commercial deal with India’s largest airline IndiGo.

With the glamour and showmanship Dubai’s Emirates is known for, Etihad provides a more exclusive and intimate luxury flight encounter more representative of Abu Dhabi’s refined sensibilities. As US airline reviewer Zach Griff puts it, “Etihad makes even being in economy feel like an exclusive delight – that’s the magic of their boutique approach shining through.”

The next outstanding airline featured in our top brands ranking is KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – the Amsterdam-based Dutch flag carrier.

#9 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Netherlands)

Holding court as one of Europe’s most prominent flag carrier airlines is KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Founded over 100 years ago in 1919, KLM lays claim to being the oldest airline still operating under its original name.

While the airline took dramatic losses during the pandemic, KLM secured crucial financial lifelines from the Dutch government and Air France-KLM group to prevent insolvency. Today, with Amsterdam Airport returning to near pre-COVID passenger volumes, KLM is flying high once again.

As a 4-Star Airline, KLM maintains a formidable European short-haul network as the key tenant airline of Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. But the airline also connects onto intercontinental flights bound across KLM and partner Delta’s transatlantic and Asia routes.

Renowned for showcasing wonderful Dutch hospitality, KLM’s extensive Delft blue porcelain aircraft collections and famously gregarious flight attendants bring quintessential Dutch charm to global skies.

As veteran aviation reporter Gilbert Ott notes, “While many European flag carriers are falling into nostalgia and cost-cutting, KLM continues innovating and delivering a stellar passenger experience with that charming Dutch smile I’ve come to expect.”

Up next at #8 is Swiss International Air Lines – the rising star airline from Switzerland has vaulted onto the global stage by providing their signature blend of efficiency, luxury and warmth to travelers across Europe.

#8 Swiss International Air Lines (Switzerland)

As the national airline of Switzerland, Swiss International Air Lines is a paragon of quality, efficiency and stability – much like the country itself. Though starting off shaky after the collapse of former Swissair, the airline has soared under the guidance and financial backing of Lufthansa Group ownership.

Swiss International Air Lines has achieved a 4-Star Airline certification. This rating is an acknowledgment of the airline’s quality in terms of its airport and onboard services, as well as the performance of its staff.

Swiss connects Switzerland to over 100 destinations globally but more crucially provides smooth onward connections via its Zurich hub to Lufthansa’s vast network spanning Europe, Asia and the Americas. As a result, Swiss has managed to maintain near 2019 passenger volumes much faster than other European airlines.

While perhaps not as flashy as its Middle East or Asia-based rivals, Swiss delights passengers with trademark Swiss hospitality, delectable chocolates and reliable punctuality. Its aircraft cabins shine too – having been renovated in recent years complete with onboard WiFi connectivity.

#7 Lufthansa German Airlines (Germany)

Anchoring European skies with characteristic German precision and efficiency is continent-leading airline group Lufthansa. Comprising several well-known airline brands including Swiss, Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa Group leverages strength across Europe’s richest economies with hub airports spanning Frankfurt, Zurich and Vienna.

Lufthansa has been recognized as a 4-Star Airline, a certification that underscores its high-quality airport and onboard product offerings and staff service.

The diverse brand and geographical portfolio proved key in weathering fierce pandemic headwinds. Extensive government financial support prevented insolvency, allowing Lufthansa’s core German brand to undergo accelerated fleet modernization, premium cabin upgrades and extensive cost restructuring.

The airline retired many aging jets during COVID to upgrade capacity on highest-demand routes with next-generation extended range aircraft like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. These newly delivered planes boast Lufthansa’s latest business, premium economy and economy class offerings – featuring improved ergonomics, luxury finishes and the largest in-flight entertainment screens in Europe.

Network-wide operational reliability has also excelled over the past year, with OAG Aviation data showing 80% of Lufthansa flights arriving on-time amidst lingering European airport disruptions.

Analysts believe Lufthansa Group is poised to thrive in coming years as consolidated Europe hub dominance and resurging transatlantic demand drive improved profitability.

#6 Japan Airlines (Japan)

Ranking as the 14th best airline brand worldwide is Tokyo-based Japan Airlines (JAL). One of Asia’s most prestigious and oldest carriers, JAL has racked up awards and high praise over the last two years for its exceptional cabin service, efficient operations, safety, and continued financial turnaround.

Japan Airlines (JAL) has been recognized by Skytrax with a 5-Star Airline rating.

As Japan’s flag carrier and second largest airline, JAL flies over 27 million passengers to nearly 100 destinations globally each year. While it lags behind other Asian mega-carriers in fleet size and route network breadth, JAL excels when it comes to service quality and showcasing Japan’s renowned omotenashi hospitality even in economy class.

The airline has invested heavily in improving meal service across all cabins. An area of particular focus has been on fine-tuning the flavor profile of every dish to appeal more to international passengers.

While renowned for outstanding cabin service, JAL also leads among Asian airlines when it comes to operational efficiency and on-time performance. Through various digitalization initiatives over the past decade, JAL has fine-tuned flight operations to minimize delays and disruptions. As per OAG aviation data, Japan Airlines has maintained an 86% on-time departure record over the last two years, ranking 5th globally across all airlines.

#5 Cathay Pacific Airways (Hong Kong)

As Hong Kong’s quintessential home airline, Cathay Pacific carries forth Asian hospitality with a blend of modern British heritage and luxury. Receiving strong financial backing from the Hong Kong government during pandemic struggles, Cathay has emerged revitalized – undertaking extensive aircraft cabin upgrades, network expansion and streamlined operations.

Cathay Pacific Airways has been distinguished with a 5-Star Airline certification. This recognition is attributed to the exceptional quality of its airport services, onboard products, and the level of service provided by its staff. This prestigious rating reflects Cathay Pacific’s commitment to delivering a high standard of customer experience in the airline industry.

Cathay entirely overhauled seats across all travel classes whether long-haul first class suites or regional economy. Next generation inflight entertainment and connectivity systems rollout across the fleet along with luxury amenity partnerships like Acqua di Parma.

The airline’s newly reopened flagship Hong Kong lounges dazzle travelers with infinity pools, first class spa relaxation zones and table service dining. Cathay’s lucrative cargo shipping revenues helped fund growth even amidst Hong Kong’s strict zero-COVID policies denting passenger flights..

Though still on ongoing transformation plan towards sustainable profitability, Cathay Pacific brings classic Asian elegance, intimacy and impeccable hospitality to global skies – cementing its place among the finest aviation brands worldwide.

#4 All Nippon Airways (ANA)

Representing the epitome of Japanese omotenashi hospitality in the skies is All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s largest airline and 5-star Skytrax rated carrier. Though the Tokyo-based airline suffered from Japan’s strict pandemic border policies, ANA has rebounded remarkably on the back of surging outbound tourism and relaxation of visa rules.

ANA maintains an impeccable safety record, latest generation aircraft across its fleet and introduction of innovative airline cabins like its “Room” business class suites with sliding privacy doors. While renowned for outstanding service in premium cabins, ANA also leads among Asian flag carriers for economy class experience.

Unique touches like colorful painted aircraft exteriors with Pokemon and Star Wars themes plus fun staging video safety demos showcase ANA’s trademark Japanese kawaii culture. Though perhaps not a household name globally, ANA’s supreme cabin service and operational excellence cement its place among the best airlines in the world.

#3 Emirates Airlines (UAE)

Dazzling travelers with its meteoric expansion from desert outpost to thriving global super connector is beloved Dubai flagship airline Emirates. Launched just 35 years ago, Emirates serves as the central pillar of the breakneck emergence of the United Arab Emirates onto the world’s stage.

Emirates Airlines has been awarded a Skytrax 4-Star rating for its airport and onboard product quality, as well as staff service. This rating encompasses aspects such as seat comfort, onboard amenities, food and beverages, in-flight entertainment, and cleanliness. Additionally, the rating reflects the service excellence of both cabin and ground staff.

Emirates leads globally in international passengers carried, connecting over 43 million travelers annually across six continents with its continually expanding fleet of new widebody aircraft. The airline continues its relentless growth trajectory – having just put in a blockbuster combined order for over 310 next-generation Airbus and Boeing jets worth over $100 billion.

Having secured substantial government investment during pandemic struggles, Emirates remerges renewed with upgrades across onboard products. The airline sets industry benchmarks for first, business and even premium economy class accommodations – bringing signature Dubai-styled glamour, showmanship and culinary excellence to global skies.

With extensive Asian and European route networks plus accelerated South American expansion, Emirates continues deservedly scooping up accolades as a consummate global airline brand befitting Dubai’s visionary emergence as a preeminent business and leisure hub.

#2 Singapore Airlines (Singapore)

Flying the distinctive red and gold Singaporean flag across skies is award-winning Singapore Airlines – the independent city-state’s global aviation ambassador. Despite the Southeast Asian nation’s demanding zero-COVID policies deeply denting travel demand, Singapore Airlines doubled down – ordering next-generation aircraft, revitalizing cabins and leading inflight dining innovations to uphold its reputation for excellence.

Singapore Airlines has earned a 5-Star rating, a testament to its exceptional airport and onboard offerings, including premium seats, diverse amenities, gourmet food and beverages, engaging in-flight entertainment, and meticulous cleanliness.

Service innovations like on-demand dining across all cabins draw worldwide praise. Changi Airport’s sparkling Jewel terminal and business/first class lounges showcase the heights of passenger luxury – from rooftop swimming pools to private sleep cabanas.

A hallmark of Singapore Airlines is its outstanding customer service, characterized by the iconic Singapore Girl, the airline’s emblematic figure representing gracious and attentive service. The airline is also celebrated for its culinary offerings, with a diverse range of high-quality meals prepared by renowned chefs.

Singapore Airlines operates a comprehensive global network, serving destinations across six continents. It is a member of the Star Alliance, further extending its connectivity through code-sharing and partnerships. The airline is also known for its strong safety record and commitment to continual improvement and innovation, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the aviation industry.

#1 Qatar Airways (Qatar)

Claiming the gold standard as the world’s best airline brand is rapidly ascending Qatar Airways – representing the pint-sized Persian Gulf nation’s outsized aviation ambitions. The state-owned flag carrier has catapulted onto the global stage over the past decade, scooping up countless passenger experience awards and expanding across six continents.

Qatar Airways has achieved Skytrax 5-Star certification, recognizing its excellence in seat comfort, onboard amenities, catering, in-flight entertainment, cleanliness, as well as the quality of service provided by its cabin and ground staff

Qatar seized pandemic disruptions as an opportunity to continue evolving its product. The airline debuted new business class Qsuites with sliding privacy doors and social areas for small groups. These revolutionary suites picked up a bounty of awards – including Skytrax’s Best Business Class 2023.

Beyond the luxurious experience, Qatar Airways also maintains a comprehensive global network, connecting over 150 destinations worldwide, making it a top choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Qatar Airways operates from Hamad International Airport in Doha, an architecturally stunning and highly efficient hub known for its modern facilities. The airline’s commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its high-quality meal offerings, prepared by top chefs. Furthermore, as a member of the Oneworld alliance, Qatar Airways extends its reach and benefits through partnerships with other leading airlines. Safety and operational excellence remain at the core of Qatar Airways’ values, ensuring a secure and pleasant journey for all its passengers.

Key Takeaways From the Best Airline Brand Rankings

As we hit firm tailwinds towards an industry-wide recovery and resurgence, these select aviation brands stand out for driving air travel forward through innovation, vision and passenger-centric values. They set leading standards, poised to ascend into the new era of aviation with renewed vigor and excellence.

The megacarriers like Qatar, Singapore airlines and Emirates continue demonstrating business class can be glamorous and fun versus boring and stodgy. Regional flagships like Swiss and ANA showcase personalized premium service needn’t be flashy to delight. Value champions like Delta, Ryanair and Turkish Airlines expand global and regional connectivity, economy class improvements and swanky airport amenities at palatable prices.

With blue skies ahead, travelers fortunately have an ever-expanding array of outstanding airline brands to experience the joys of flight once more. The voyage continues as new innovators surely emerge in this dynamic, competitive global industry.

Frequent Asked Questions