AirlineRatings names Korean Air as world's best in 2025

"The World’s Best Airline Awards are determined based on feedback from travelers, expert editor reviews, overall product choice and consistency for passengers, innovation, and forward fleet orders," AirlineRatings.com said.

"Safety is a key consideration, with only seven-star safety-rated airlines eligible, and financial stability is also factored in—airlines undergoing restructuring, mergers, or bankruptcy are not considered," reads the AirlineRatings.com.

As per the  Australia-based aviation safety and product rating agency, Korean Air won the numero uno position for its exceptional focus on passenger comfort, particularly in Economy Class, where it maintains industry-leading seat pitches of 33–34 inches on wide-body aircraft.

The agency said unlike many of its competitors, Korean Air resisted reducing seat space, ensuring a more comfortable travel experience.

Qatar Airways stood in the second position while Air New Zealand ranked third.

Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines held the fourth and fifth positions respectively.

Speaking on the ranking,  AirlineRatings.com CEO Sharon Petersen said: "In reviewing this year’s awards, we placed particular emphasis on Economy Class, as it is where most passengers travel."

"While many airlines have added a 10th seat per row on 777 aircraft and reduced seat pitch in economy to 31–32 inches (down from the previous 32–33 inches), Korean Air has chosen not to follow this trend," Petersen said.

"They have maintained their original seat configuration and a generous 33-34 inch seat pitch, offering passengers a more comfortable experience," the CEO said.

This year,  in addition to recognizing the best full-service and low-cost airlines, the agency added a new category: Best Hybrid Airlines.

Here are the top 25 Full Service Airlines for 2025

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 are trialling a Hybrid model on some routes)

Air Calin

Air Mauritius

Garuda Indonesia

Here are the top 20 Hybrid Airlines for 2025

Jetblue

Westjet

Virgin Australia

Delta Airlines

United

American Airlines

Lufthansa

Air Canada

LOT Polish Airlines (this is under change and may soon be full service)

TAP Portugal

Alaska Airlines

SWISS

Avianca

Iberia

British Airways

Finnair

Austrian Airlines

Hawaiian

ITA

SAS 

Here are the top 20 Low Cost Airlines for 2025

AirAsia

Jetstar

AirBaltic

HK Express

Easyjet

FlyDubai

Ryanair

Scoot

Breeze

Southwest

SKY Airline

FlyNas

TUI

Norwegian

Indi GO

Air Arabia

Volaris

Jet2

Wizz

Vueling