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13 Best Business Class Airlines in the World

The allure of Business Class travel has never been stronger. In the modern, fast-paced world of executive and luxury travel, selecting the right airline can be the difference between a productive, relaxing flight and a nightmare at 35,000 feet.

As airlines compete and evolve to deliver even greater luxuries, refined service and pioneering amenities, this article will explore some of the best airlines offering a Business Class product to make your flight an unforgettable experience – for all the right reasons.

Many airlines are cutting back on their First Class offerings and ramping up their Business Class cabins to feed an ever-growing demand. More and more families are flying in Business Class and airlines are catering for them too!

We here at BusinessClass.com will only review an airline if we have actually flown it. We experience everything from the chauffeur service to the airport, to check-in, the lounges , the flight and everything in the middle - cuisine, Champagne , service, amenity kits , and most importantly the seat and comfort ! We do the work so you can make a more informed choice of which airline to fly with! 

Search & Book your next Business Class flight with BusinessClass.com today !

The BusinessClass.com guide to the 13 Best Business Class airlines in the world: 

Qatar Airways

BusinessClass.com overall score: 10/10

Arguably, the best Business Class experience in the skies – known for its Qsuites, lavish lounges and impressive inflight service and dining.

Business Class passengers enjoy expedited check-in and security lines at Doha and the stunning Al Mourjan Business Lounge, offering shower and nap facilities and numerous dining options, including buffet and à la carte restaurants.

Most Qatar Airways long-haul aircraft boast flatbed seats. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 have 1-2-1 seat configurations, while the Airbus A330 and some older Boeing 777s still have 2-2-2 setups. Many aircraft offer the famed Qsuite, while the latest Dreamliners boast the newest Business Class Suite.

Dine-on-demand gourmet cuisine is accompanied by a solid wine list and a long list of cocktails and mocktails. Passengers on the A380 also take advantage of the upper deck Bar.

Qatar Airways flight attendants are among the most service-oriented in the skies. Other perks include collectable amenity kits, pyjamas, a pair of comfortable slippers and great in-flight entertainment.

What We Love:

• A superb dining and inflight experience
• The fabulous Al Mourjan lounge in Doha
• Qsuite - Business Class suites with doors that close

Champagne: 

• Laurent-Perrier Brut, and Charles Heidsieck Réserve

Qatar Airways has taken the wraps off its next-generation Business Class suite, the Qsuite Next Gen. Passengers can expect to see these new seats on the airline's Boeing 777-9 aircraft starting in 2025.

Qsuite Next Gen boasts improved features across the board, including more storage space, increased privacy within each suite, and upgraded technology including wireless charging, customisable mood lighting, and touchscreen controls.

The redesigned Quad Suite, which can seat up to four passengers, offers a more open feel thanks to movable 4K OLED screens. These screens can be positioned to the side, creating additional space for socialising, dining, or working. Passengers in the Quad Suite will also enjoy taller privacy dividers with digital controls and wider lie-flat double beds complete with a turn-down service.

For couples, Qatar Airways has introduced the Companion Suite. This new option combines window seats into a double suite, allowing passengers to face each other by folding away the television.

Virgin Atlantic

BusinessClass.com overall score: 9/10 

Virgin Atlantic appeals to a younger, funkier demographic, with a warm, friendly cabin crew keen to interact with passengers.

Virgin flies to 35 locations across five continents. The exclusive Upper Class (Business Class) Wing at London Heathrow offers personal porters, dedicated check-in, priority lifts and fast-track security. Uber stylish Virgin Atlantic's Clubhouses are more like a members' club – offering table service, a fantastic range of food and drink, relaxation and wellness facilities.

Virgin Atlantic Upper Class seats transform into fully flat beds with direct aisle access. The airline's exclusive Retreat Suites on the latest Airbus A330-900neos offer two connecting suites large enough for four passengers to socialise and dine in the intimacy of their own booth.

Passengers choose from a four-course menu for a restaurant-style experience with an excellent wine list.

Night-flight passengers receive pyjamas and quality bedding, including a duvet, a large pillow, and an amenity kit. Upper Class cabins also feature a dedicated social space to meet colleagues, drink with friends, or eat dinner.

• The uber-cool Clubhouses
• The slick and stylish look and feel of Virgin
• The onboard social space
• Ayala Champagne
• If Ayala unavailable - Canard-Duchêne and Champagne Chanoine Frères Réserve Privée Brut NV.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Business Class is among the best Middle Eastern carriers, with impressive service from an international crew that speaks multiple languages.

Business Class lounges in Abu Dhabi offer Middle Eastern and Asian-inspired menus, fine wines, cocktails and mocktails. There are shower suites, quiet relaxing places, and dedicated business facilities.

Business Class seats vary depending on the aircraft. However, all have lie-flat seats with direct aisle access. The Airbus A380s offer 70 of the latest, more private Business Studios with higher partitions and access to 'The Lobby' lounge bar area.

Etihad offers a dine-on-demand service with a bespoke dinner service labelled 'Beyond Business.' An excellent beverage menu includes Champagne, two whites, two reds and a dessert wine, plus a long list of spirits and soft drinks.

Amenity kits - from the iconic Italian fashion house Giorgio Armani and luxury wellness brand ESPA - contain signature fragrances, eye masks, ear plugs and luxurious socks. The mosaic-tiled lavatories also feature luxury comfort products.

• A dine-on-demand menu
• The excellent Abu Dhabi lounges
• Top-notch service from an international crew
• Piper Heidsieck Cuvée Brut

Etihad has confirmed a new Business Class seat/suite for the airline's new Airbus A321LR fleet.The Abu Dhabi-based airline is due to receive ten new single-aisle A321LRs next year which will feature “14 lie flat Business Class seats and two seats in the front of the cabin which offer even more comfort.” Etihad will put fully lie-flat seats in Business Class - mirroring its major rival Qatar Airways.

Currently, the airline flies nearly 90 aircraft - serving 70 destinations - but over the next five years, that number will jump to 110 destinations, served by around 160 aircraft. 

Vietnam Airlines

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8.5/10

The flag carrier since 1993, Vietnam Airlines goes from strength to strength. It operates 96 routes, including 27 international destinations spanning Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Indochina, Australia, and North America. It has one of the world's fastest-growing domestic markets, with hubs in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and a secondary hub in Da Nang.

Vietnam Airlines operates one of the youngest and most modern fleets in Asia, consisting of Boeing 787-9, 787-10 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s for long-haul flights, with older Airbus A321ceos and state-of-the-art A321neos used on shorter routes.

All Business Class seats have direct aisle access and offer fully converting lie-flat beds of around 75 inches (190.5 centimetres) in length, a pitch of 42 inches (106.7 centimetres), and a spacious seat width of 21.5 inches (54.6 centimetres) in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration.

Vietnamese cuisine reflects the country's vibrant culture and traditions with a delicate balance of flavours, textures, and colours alongside sweet, salty, sour ,and spicy elements. Gourmands will savour the meal service. 

Vietnam Airlines offers passengers a good standard of service, and though it may not be as personalised as with some leading airlines, passengers will still feel welcomed and relaxed by the attentive crew. Flight attendants are professional, friendly, and courteous, and with a generous ratio of up to four cabin crew for the Business Class cabin

• A modern and young fleet of aircraft
• Spacious and comfortable Business Class seats
• Fresh, delicious, and well-presented food in the lounges and onboard
• Heidsieck & Co's Monopole Blue Top Brut

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8.5/10 

Qantas is an iconic Australian brand and one of the oldest airlines still in operation, with a Business Class cabin on all international long-haul flights to a global network.

The home hub in Sydney offers a Qantas International Business Lounge with facilities including a range of dining spaces plus premium wines and spirits. Business Class passengers receive priority check-in, dedicated boarding lanes and speedy disembarkation.

The airline's international Airbus A380s, A330-300s, and Boeing 787s provide comfortable Business Suites with a fully lie-flat bed. The A380s also offer a stylish upper deck lounge for socialising.

Passengers enjoy a fabulous range of dining options, from formal restaurant-style dining to lighter meals. Wine experts' Sommeliers in the Sky' recommend a range of award-winning Champagnes and Australian wines. A wide selection of non-alcoholic beverages is also available.

Service is polished, professional, and heartfelt. Wi-Fi is unavailable on most international routes, but some 2,500 hours of entertainment are available on the seatback HD IFE screens.

Amenities include a mattress pad, a cotton duvet and pillow, designer pyjamas and an eye-catching amenity kit containing fight essentials.

• A practical, luxurious, and comfortable product
• Sommeliers in the Sky - a touch of class
• The stylish upper deck lounge on the Airbus A380
• Rotates between Duval-Leroy Brut, Jacquart Mosaïque Brut, Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve and Taittinger Cuvée Prestige Brut.

Australia's flag carrier has unveiled prototypes of the Business Class cabins that will be offered to passengers when flying from Australia to New York and London from late 2025. Every Airbus A350 Business suite will have direct aisle access for ease of moving around the cabin, and Qantas is incorporating sliding doors into the suite for privacy, if desired.

Other Business features include a two metre flat bed, generous storage (including a large mirror), cushioned leather ottoman, 18” ultra-high definition touch screen television, large dining table and feature lighting. The Qantas A350 will offer fast and free high-speed Wi-Fi and First Class & Business Class features multiple personal device charging options including wireless induction charging.

BusinessClass.com overall score: 9.5/10 

The national flag carrier of Oman delivers a high-quality Business Class product. Headquartered at Muscat International Airport, the airline operates a mix of Airbus A330s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners with direct flights to Europe, the Gulf, the Far East, and the Indian subcontinent.

A stunning new terminal offers Business Class Lounges with marble floors and an appealing Arabic design. Passengers will find excellent dining options, a spa, nap pods, sleeping rooms, and refreshing shower suites.

Cabins are light, sleek, and elegant and provide passengers with one of the best Business Class seats in the skies with direct aisle access.

Superb 'dine-on-demand' East-West fusion cuisine is plated on board for inflight dining, closely resembling First Class on other airlines. All wine is served in long-stemmed glasses – a wide alcohol selection includes Laurent-Perrier Brut Champagne. For an Arabic experience, try the Karak Tea.

The Omani cabin crew provide genuine Arabic hospitality with excellent spoken English. Passengers receive well-stocked amenity kits, and long-haul passengers get quilted duvets, fluffy pillows, slippers, and a cotton sleeper suit.

• Best-in-class window seats
• Excellent and varied à la carte meal options
• Warm hospitality with Omani style
• Laurent-Perrier Brut

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8.5/10  

Air Canada's Signature Class (Business Class) offers an end-to-end premium experience with a distinctly Canadian flavour with hubs in Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver Airports.

Signature Class travellers access priority check-in, security lanes, boarding and the airline's Maple Leaf lounges in 16 airports across Canada, the United States and Europe. Toronto Airport also boasts the impressive Air Canada Signature Suite. An airside chauffeur service is available to eligible Toronto and Vancouver Airport customers.

The latest lie-flat Signature Class seats, named "Executive Pods", are arranged in a 1–2–1 reverse herringbone configuration on Boeing 787 and B777 aircraft. Some Airbus A330s feature the older "Classic Pods" in a 1-1-1 design.

Long-haul passengers enjoy a gourmet "dine on demand" service created by a panel of esteemed Canadian chefs, a decent wine list, and Laurent-Perrier Champagne Brut.

The charming and professional cabin crew are fluent in English and French, and a solid IFE system entertains passengers. All widebody long-haul aircraft have Wi-Fi connectivity, and passengers receive a sanitised pillow, duvet, mattress pad, a CleanCare+ kit, and a branded amenity kit containing travel essentials.

What We Love

• The Air Canada Signature Class - Executive Pod
• Air Canada Chauffeur service
• Gourmet "dine on demand" service

Japanese precision and service are hallmarks in All Nippon Airways (ANA's) highly regarded Business Class. ANA operates dual hubs at the incredibly efficient Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita airports, offering premium check-in and fast-track security access.

ANA-branded lounges in Tokyo host the airline's famous noodle bar, self-service alcohol and automatic beer machines. Lounges feature showers, napping areas, free Wi-Fi and private work cubicles. Other ANA lounges are in Honolulu (Hawaii) and Osaka, Kansai. Elsewhere, ANA's Star Alliance partners provide lounge facilities.

ANA operates long-haul Boeing 787, B777 and Airbus A380s with flatbed seats designed in a 1-2-1 configuration in Business Class. Look for smaller "mini cabins" for a more intimate feel. The newest, widest and most private Business Class seat, 'The Room', is on the B777-300.

ANA's inflight service is incredibly friendly yet reserved. Excellent Western cuisine and Japanese set menus have restaurant-style presentations. There is a good wine list, plus sake, spirits, teas and speciality coffee.

Large IFE screens contain international programming with headphones, plus paid wireless internet. Amenity kits include Japanese designer toiletries, and seats come with comfortable bedding, two pillows, plus a shoe bag. Long-haul aircraft also have bidet toilets.

• Japanese cuisine and an impressive alcohol list
• Chic lounges
• The new Business Class seat - The Room
• Champagne Castelnau - Cuvée Brut Réserve

Cathay Pacific

The admired flag carrier of Hong Kong connects continents with an impressive route map and enviable inflight service.

Hong Kong's Chep Lap Kok airport offers priority check-in and dedicated security lines. Cathay Pacific is renowned for its lounges, with The Pier Business Class Lounge regarded among the best in the world. Other Cathay Pacific lounges are found in gateway cities.

Most aircraft have one large Business Class section and a smaller cabin, and all offer 1-2-1 flatbed seating on the long-haul Boeing 777s and Airbus A350s.

Inflight dining is like a restaurant service in the air with as many as six main course options, including signature dishes from Hong Kong. The airline's celebrated wine panellists select bottles from around the world, plus Champagne, exclusive beers, and spirits.

Service is warm and hospitable, with passenger names used throughout the flight. The A350s feature wireless internet, which will soon be available throughout the widebody fleet. Large IFE screens hold an impressive amount of entertainment content.

Amenity kits feature Bamford toiletry products, and passengers receive plush pillows and luxurious bedlinen by Bamford, along with slippers.  

• Luxurious lounges with impressive food and beverage options
• Restaurant-style onboard catering
• Business Class cabins are cocoons for comfort

Singapore Airlines

BusinessClass.com overall score: 10/10 

Singapore Airlines is renowned for incredible hospitality, style, and inflight service, which is second to none.

The airline's hub at Changi Airport features premium check-in areas and seven airline lounges. The SilverKris Business Class lounges are recommended due to their superior offerings – and also found in ten other international cities.

All long-haul Business Class seats are exceptionally comfortable and are among the widest fully flat beds in the sky. The centre seats of the A380 also feature a central partition that, when fully lowered, forms a double bed.

The 'Book the Cook' onboard catering is exceptional, featuring a multi-course restaurant-style dinner service. The airline also boasts a vast wine and beverage list.

The cabin crew are among the most genuine and attentive in the skies. Passengers receive excellent noise-cancelling headphones and a wide selection of entertainment content. Limited complimentary Wi-Fi is available on most aircraft.

Passengers get a luxury amenity kit from Penhaligon's, while a sealed pillow and blanket, socks, eye masks and slippers wait at each seat before boarding.

• The inflight service is unrivalled
• Some of the most spacious and comfortable seats in class
• The “Book the Cook” service
• Billecart-Salmon Brut or Deutz Brut Classic

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines (JAL) is the country's flag carrier with impressive international and domestic route maps. JAL operates major hubs at both Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita airports.

The Sakura Lounges in both Tokyo airports feature beautiful runway views, a selection of hot & cold Japanese or international food, an open bar and, in many locations, shower facilities. Sakura Lounges are also available overseas.

The long-haul fleet consists exclusively of Boeing widebody jets with varied seat configurations ranging from 1-2-1 to 2-2-2 and 2-3-2 layouts. All long-haul flights offer the comfortable JAL SKY SUITE with fully flat beds and direct aisle access.

JAL offers exceptional multi-course cuisine, serving traditional Japanese fare and international dishes. The bar menu is wide and varied and includes a rotation of excellent Champagnes. JAL crews are eager to please and make passengers feel welcome when called upon.

Wi-Fi is available on many flights for a fee, and multi-language entertainment on the IFE, along with noise-reducing headphones. Amenity kits contain high-quality beauty products and travel essentials. Cardigan sweaters are available on request in addition to the slippers, pillow and blanket provided at each seat.

• Japanese hospitality
• High-end food and beverage
• The JAL SKY SUITE
• Duval-Leroy Brut Réserve and Drappier Carte D'or

SriLankan Airlines

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8/10 

The national carrier of Sri Lanka is based at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, offering a global network, including its codeshare partners. The airline flies Airbus aircraft with the A330-300 as its flagship.

Business Class passengers enter a dedicated check-in area before being escorted through security to the Serendib Lounge, which offers relaxing space, an international gourmet buffet, a business centre and shower facilities.

SriLankan Airlines operates a small fleet of eleven long-haul Airbus A330s with 18 or 28 Business Class seats. The newest A330-300s have 28 flatbed leather seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, with direct aisle access, while the A330-200s have flatbed seats in a 2-2-2 layout.

Passengers select between four delicious meal options, and Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut is freely available during flights, along with wines, beers, cocktails and spirits. Look out for freshly blended fruit juice and impressive tea options.

A decent array of international entertainment comes with noise-cancelling headphones. Wi-Fi is available on all A330s for a fee, and amenity kits and slippers are provided on night flights. The cabin crew service is attentive and considerate.

• A fabulous tea service
• Swift and professional check-in
• Overall excellent service
• Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines flies to more destinations than any other airline, and its route map spans five continents. The airline connects the world via its new Istanbul Airport hub. Most notable for the airline is the range of cities it serves - often destinations that few other network carriers fly to. Turkish Airlines is an integral part of the global transportation and logistics network.

The airline does not skimp on amenities for Business Class passengers, which is important as Turkish does not offer a First Class cabin. Business Class passengers enjoy the best of the best when flying Turkish. Its culinary program - in partnership with Do & Co - is among the best of any airline globally. You will not go hungry when flying Turkish, and the experience is memorable.

While several aspects of the Turkish Airlines Business Class experience meet and indeed exceed industry best practice, the airline also has a challenge with inconsistency. Two of the most important elements of any Business Class product are seats and service, and on Turkish both can range from underwhelming to world class. If you fly on an aircraft offering the latest cabin products and the crew is at their best - Turkish Airlines Business Class can be top notch.

• The inflight food and beverage presentation with the highest quality ingredients and chef-driven touches thanks to a partnership with Do & Co catering
• An unbelievable lounge experience in Istanbul that is regularly lauded as the best Business Class lounge in the world
• A route network that spans the globe and takes you to many destinations that no other airline can
• The airline has recently launched an Istanbul to Melbourne three-times-a-week service - via Singapore. It's expected to begin a Sydney service by the end of the year.
• Taittinger Brut Réserve

Turkish Airlines has unveiled its all new “Crystal" Business Class suite and has confirmed that preparations are underway for a rollout across its entire Boeing 777 fleet - starting in early 2025.

Additionally, ultra-long-range Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, set to commence non-stop flights to Sydney and Melbourne from late 2026, will also feature these private suites. 

On the new Business class offerings of the company, Turkish Airlines Chairman of The Board and Executive Committee Prof. Ahmet Bolat stated: “Our new Crystal Business Class suite will add a new chapter for our long-haul luxury travel and will carry the airline into the future with a new level of comfort and privacy across our extensive global network. The specially created design will complement our award-winning in-flight dining options for us to keep providing an unparalleled experience above the clouds for our guests.”

These “for Turkish Airlines-only” Crystal suites will feature sliding doors and a raft of high-tech features designed to “elevate the in-flight experience”. The 1-2-1 layout would accommodate 44 Business Class seats in the Boeing 777, only reducing five seats from the aircraft's previous 2-3-2 layout and eliminating the unfashionable 'middle seat'. Crystal will be progressively installed across the entire Boeing fleet, starting in early 2025, with each aircraft undergoing upgrades for about a week. From 2026 onwards, Crystal will also be available on Turkish Airlines’ Airbus A350-1000s, catering to their non-stop 17-hour flights between Turkey and Australia.

Read more: 

• Tips on Finding cheap Business Class flights
• Business Class Travel Tips

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The best airlines in the US for 2024

Summer travel is kicking off in full force, and that can mean only one thing (aside from school ending, barbecues and packed flights to Europe): It's time to name TPG's Best Airline for 2024.

This year's rankings come as summer travel is expected to reach its highest level since 2019, if not its highest level ever.

Hundreds of thousands of Americans will be looking for airline tickets while considering details like price, service, reliability and, yes, frequent flyer points and miles.

Each traveler has their own set of preferences, but we still receive one type of question above nearly all others: Is any one airline in the U.S. the best? Does any one carrier succeed at all the things travelers really care about?

Every year, we compile thousands of objective data points to determine which of the 10 biggest U.S. airlines strikes the best balance of reliability, cost, experience and value. Our goal is to use a fair and unbiased approach to see how the airlines stack up for the average consumer.

This year's analysis is complete, and we're here with the results. Read on to see where your airline landed in this year's ratings

Best US airlines of 2024

1. Delta Air Lines 2. Alaska Airlines 3. United Airlines 4. American Airlines 5. Southwest Airlines 6. JetBlue 7. Hawaiian Airlines 8. Allegiant Air 9. Spirit Airlines 10. Frontier Airlines

Keep reading for our full analysis and methodology — and to see what helped Delta top our rankings for the sixth year in a row.

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Overall rankings and key takeaways

Here's a quick breakdown of the overall scores this year, including the highest- and lowest-performing categories for each airline. We'll include last year's rank for each airline (in parentheses).

* All data was based on the 12-month period from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2023, aside from customer satisfaction. Due to a reporting delay as the U.S. Department of Transportation changes its methodology for tracking complaints, this information is only available for the five-month period between Jan. 1 and May 31, 2023.

Key takeaways from this year's analysis include:

• Delta wins for the sixth year in a row. Once again, the Atlanta-based carrier took home the top ranking. Interestingly, Delta was the top-performing airline in only one single category: timeliness. (It also tied with Allegiant for the top-performing airline in the involuntary bumps category.) However, Delta's consistent performance across all categories — aside from affordability — made it the top pick overall.
• There were no big surprises compared to last year. Alaska and United swapped positions, as did JetBlue and Hawaiian, and Allegiant and Spirit. However, no airlines jumped or fell multiple spots, meaning there were no big gains or losses compared to last year. Overall, 2023 was a year of relative stability and continued recovery from the last of the post-coronavirus-lockdown hiccups.
• Some airlines performed better than in 2022, while others fell. Several airlines fell a point or two (or more) compared to last year: Delta (-0.57), United (-1.57), Hawaiian (-5.80), Spirit (-4.44) and Frontier (-5.39). The carriers with improved overall scores are Alaska (+3.84), American (+1.01), Southwest (+2.25), JetBlue (+1.70) and Allegiant (+6.32). Still, none of the changes were big enough to swing an airline more than one spot in the rankings.
• Consumer complaint data doesn't tell the whole story. The U.S. Department of Transportation typically reports data covering a variety of metrics on a three-month delay. However, the agency delayed reporting of customer complaints in the middle of the year because the volume of complaints has increased compared to pre-pandemic times. As such, the agency wants to rework how it processes that information. Data were only available through May 2023, so the customer satisfaction score does not reflect passengers' experiences during the latter part of the year, including the busy summer and holiday travel seasons.

So, just how did these airlines fall where they did in the rankings? Read on for a closer look at each category we used to build these rankings, along with the weight we assigned to each. The full methodology is provided at the end of the report.

Best US airlines for reliability

A lot goes into the overall air travel experience, from the moment you start searching for flights until you pick up your luggage from baggage claim and head out the airport door. But at the end of the day, an airline has one main job: to get you where you pay to go roughly on the schedule it promised.

Because of that, operational reliability is the largest single category in our rankings, weighted at 30% of our total analysis. We use five factors under the umbrella of reliability:

• Timeliness : How frequently a flight on the airline was delayed
• Cancellations : How frequently a flight on the airline was canceled
• Bumps/involuntary denied boardings : How frequently an airline bumped a traveler against their will on an oversold flight
• Baggage : How frequently an airline mishandled a piece of checked luggage
• Wheelchairs/scooters : How frequently an airline mishandled a mobility device

The results here produced a winner that may come as a surprise to some: Allegiant. It scored the highest across the category's five metrics. The full reliability rankings are as follows:

1. Allegiant 2. Delta 3. Alaska 4. Southwest 5. Hawaiian 6. United 7. American 8. JetBlue 9. Spirit 10. Frontier

The ultra-low-cost carriers — Allegiant, Spirit and Frontier — may have a generally poor reputation for reliability, along with onboard experience. However, Allegiant offers a reason to reconsider that notion after its cumulative 2023 score for reliability was the best in the industry. While Allegiant's on-time performance was weak (ranking seventh out of 10 on our timeliness scale), it scored at the top of the other four categories under the overall reliability umbrella.

Of the 10 airlines we tracked, Allegiant had the lowest rate of flight cancellations; it cut just 782 of its 115,539 flights in 2023 (or 0.68% of its operations). Alaska wasn't far behind, canceling 2,849 out of its 385,945 flights (or 0.74% of its scheduled flights). At the other end of the spectrum, Frontier canceled 3,774 of its 177,542 scheduled flights (or 2.13% of its operations).

Allegiant also snagged the top score for the number of passengers it bumped involuntarily — zero. It tied with Delta.

Conversely, Frontier was far and away the worst performer, denying boarding at a whopping rate of 35.06 per 100,000 passengers, a total of 10,123 out of 28,872,300 travelers. For context, the next-worst performer was American, with 5.57 involuntary denied boardings per 100,000 passengers.

Allegiant is clearly doing something right in its baggage-handling operation as well. You won't find free checked bags here — and if you book the base fare class, you'll be charged for a carry-on, too. However, Allegiant led the other rankings by having the fewest lost or damaged bags at a rate of just 1.89 per 1,000 checked bags. American was the worst performer here, with 7.61 mishandled bags per 1,000.

Allegiant's strong performance carried over to wheelchairs and mobility scooters, too. The Las Vegas-based carrier mishandled checked wheelchairs at a rate of 0.37 per 100; Spirit brought up the rear with a rate of 5.35 wheelchairs mishandled out of every 100 wheelchairs checked by passengers.

Best US airlines for the travel experience

Reliability is important, but the onboard experience is the first thing that many people think of when it comes to the "best airline." For many, onboard snacks, meals or entertainment can make or break a journey.

Travel experience is important to us at TPG, too, so we weighted it as 25% of our overall score, just behind reliability. The travel experience score looks at four factors:

• Cabin features : What you'll experience on board, including Wi-Fi, seat pitch/width and inflight entertainment
• Lounges : How widespread (and numerous) an airline's lounges are and how affordable they are to access
• Family : How well an airline caters to families traveling with children
• Customer satisfaction : The rate at which passengers complain to the DOT about the carrier

Alaska took the top prize overall, with the full category rankings coming in as follows:

1. Alaska 2. Delta 3. American 4. United 5. JetBlue 6. Hawaiian 7. Southwest 8. Spirit 9. Allegiant 10. Frontier

Breaking them down by subcategory, JetBlue was the top airline for cabin features — just like it was last year and the year before. The New York-based carrier's strong performance here is boosted since it provides free Wi-Fi across its entire fleet; it also offers seatback entertainment screens and the largest average economy seat size among all U.S. airlines.

Alaska, meanwhile, scored best for its domestic lounges — something crucial for many frequent flyers. Although the airline only has nine lounges of its own, its Alaska Lounge+ members can access dozens more across the U.S., including more than 40 American Airlines Admirals Clubs, several United Club locations and a few third-party lounges.

Alaska also ranked first for customer satisfaction, with the caveat we mentioned before: Customer complaint data was only available for the first five months of last year. The airline snagged the top spot for its family travel experience as well; that's based on a variety of factors, such as early boarding, bag fees, onboard snacks and inflight entertainment.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the ultra-low-cost airlines finished last for overall experience. They were dragged down by seating configurations with limited legroom, extra fees — which also dent these carriers' family experience scores — and the lack of lounges.

Best US airlines for cost and reach

Of course, before you can even think about reliability or the travel experience, you need to see which airlines actually go where you're trying to go — and how much a ticket on those carriers will set you back.

We try to see which airlines have the right mix here with our cost and reach category; it looks at the prices you can expect to pay for airfare and common add-on fees. Our formula is also meant to evaluate how widespread each airline's domestic route network is. This category is weighted at 20% of the total score and includes these three factors:

• Route network : How many domestic airports an airline serves
• Affordability : How far (in distance) you can fly for the money you're paying, based on financial data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics
• Ancillary fees : How much a typical passenger pays in bag and change/cancellation fees

The cost and reach category is where things can get interesting. The ultra-low-cost airlines are clearly the most affordable, but they also have high ancillary fees — and many of them. Plus, they tend to have smaller route networks than the legacy carriers.

Who strikes the balance best? Here are our results:

1. Southwest 2. United 3. American 4. Delta 5. Alaska 6. Allegiant 7. Spirit 8. Hawaiian 9. JetBlue 10. Frontier

It's not surprising that Southwest is the overall winner here. Southwest serves about half as many domestic cities as the three biggest legacy airlines — American, Delta and United — but it nevertheless has a sizable route map. This is especially true when compared to other low-cost airlines like Spirit and Frontier, as well as East Coast-oriented JetBlue and West Coast-focused Alaska.

But where Southwest has a clear advantage is fees. Southwest doesn't charge change or cancellation fees. Even though the other big airlines have drastically cut those fees from their pre-pandemic prices, the airlines still charged more on average for "extra" costs than Southwest did in 2023.

Southwest also famously allows two free checked bags per passenger. Passengers checking more than two bags have to pay extra, so Southwest did earn some revenue from baggage fees in 2023. However, that total was a fraction of what the other airlines collected.

In 2023, Southwest earned an average of just 43 cents in fees per passenger carried. That's significantly less than what American, Delta and United earned for bag fees; the carriers received $6 to $9 in fees per passenger last year. Southwest held up even better compared to the ultra-low-cost airlines that make up for lower ticket prices by tacking on add-on fees. Spirit and Allegiant made an average of just under $27 in fees per passenger, while Frontier brought in a whopping $40 for every passenger it flew.

Of course, if you can travel light and avoid the fees, those budget airlines are far and away the most affordable. Frontier took in $118 in fare revenue for every domestic 1,000 miles flown per passenger, while Spirit fell just behind at $118.13. Allegiant was a distant third at $159.38.

Unsurprisingly, the legacy airlines were the most expensive. Delta landed at the bottom of our affordability rankings, with an average of $302.50 in fare revenue per 1,000 passenger miles flown. American was next at $279.03. United was the most affordable of the "Big Three" carriers at $261.76. Southwest, which is somewhere between a legacy airline and a low-cost carrier, came in at $191.74.

Best US airlines for loyalty

The final category for our rankings is loyalty — a key topic for TPG staff members and readers alike. We weighted this at 25% and included two specific factors:

• Frequent flyer program : How rewarding an airline's loyalty program is based on TPG's valuations , elite status, cobranded credit cards, partner airlines and expiration policies
• Award availability : How easy and valuable it is to redeem your rewards across popular travel times

Like last year, United came out on top. Here are the full results:

1. United 2. American 3. Alaska 4. Delta 5. JetBlue 6. Southwest 7. Hawaiian 8. Spirit 9. Frontier 10. Allegiant

The competition at the top was close, but United won out with the best rating for rewarding frequent flyers. The carrier has the greatest number of redemption and earning partners and offers four consumer credit cards . American was close behind, followed by Alaska.

Delta, which was last year's runner-up, fell to fourth place. This is partly due to charging high mileage prices for award flights and recently making changes to its elite status program that have been viewed negatively by many of the company's frequent flyers.

The low-cost carriers generally fell short in this area; they were hindered by their relatively few partners, limited or fixed value for miles, poor award availability and/or expiration policies for miles.

Methodology

TPG's Best Airline rankings are based on scores from four broad sections, each of which consists of multiple criteria. All data points for the 2024 report were based on flights operated during the 12-month period that ran from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2023.

A full breakdown of the methodology and the data used for each is as follows:

Reliability (30%)

• Timeliness (using data on delayed flights from the DOT)
• Cancellations (using data on canceled flights from the DOT)
• Involuntary bumps (using data on involuntary denied boardings from the DOT)
• Baggage (using data on mishandled baggage from the DOT)
• Wheelchairs/scooters (using data on mishandled baggage from the DOT)

Experience (25%)

• Cabin features (using data from SeatGuru and inflight amenity offerings from each carrier's website)
• Lounges (using data on the number of lounges, the number of cities and the price of membership for each applicable lounge network)
• Family travel (using a 0-to-5 score based on boarding, perks and food/entertainment available on board)
• Customer satisfaction (using data on customer complaints from the DOT)

Cost and reach (20%)

• Route network (using the monthly average of domestic cities served by each airline from the DOT)
• Affordability (using financial data from the BTS)
• Bag/change fees (using financial data from the BTS)

Loyalty (25%)

• Frequent flyer program (using data from our monthly valuations, elite status reports and each carrier's website)
• Award availability (using real-time award inventory for popular domestic routes across three distinct time periods)

For all criteria, the raw scores from the data were converted into scaled scores from zero to 10. In most cases, a score of zero was assigned to the lowest-performing carrier, and where possible, a score of 10 was assigned to a "perfect" airline. For example, Allegiant and Delta both scored a 10 on involuntary bumps since they had zero (or effectively zero) last year.

However, when there was no clear way to determine perfection, the highest-performing airline received a 10.

By using scaled scores (rather than a simple ranking system), we essentially "graded" each airline relative to the others. The score for each airline on each individual element was thus a numerical reflection of how much better said airline did compared to the lowest-scoring carrier.

For instance, Alaska had the fewest number of DOT complaints in the first five months of the year, with Delta not far behind (2.94 per 100,000 passengers versus 3.70).

We normalized these numbers by comparing them to the lowest-performing airline (Frontier, with 38.76 per 100,000 passengers) and the highest possible score (0 per 100,000 passengers). The resulting scaled score conversion gave Alaska a "grade" of 9.24 out of 10 and Delta an 8.09 out of 10.

Then, each individual score was weighted using the above percentages to arrive at the final, cumulative score included in the table.

Final thoughts

A lot goes into choosing a flight and an airline for your next trip. Price matters, but so do reliability, rewards you can earn and the actual passenger experience on the flight. Of course, no one airline will meet the needs of every passenger, so each of those considerations has a different level of importance for each individual traveler.

However, our report uses objective data and a fair weighting that we think best sums up a fair, broad picture for a wide range of travelers.

For the sixth year in a row, Delta has earned the title of TPG's Best Airline for 2024.

Delta's reign shows that sometimes, it pays not to be the best at every single thing. Instead, it's important to focus on performing well across every area and standing out by offering a consistent and reliable product across the board.

Delta alienated some of its frequent flyers with the changes it made to its rewards program, and its fares are the highest in the U.S. by our measure. However, its reliability, performance, features and overall experience work together to keep it at the top of the pack.

• [ August 28, 2024 ] Review: Lufthansa Boeing 747 Business Class (Frankfurt to Johannesburg) Flight reviews
• [ August 26, 2024 ] Top 10 most exciting features of the Airbus A380 Top 10 lists
• [ August 23, 2024 ] This airline launches ‘All You Can Fly’ pass – but there’s a catch Travel news
• [ August 21, 2024 ] Review: Etihad Airways A380 First Class Apartment (Abu Dhabi to London) Flight reviews
• [ August 19, 2024 ] Top 10 most spectacular rooftop pools in the world Top 10 lists

Top 10 world’s best airlines for long-haul Business Class

Monday newsletters always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 world’s best airlines for long-haul Business Class

Each year, I give a round-up of my favorite 10 Business Class products in the world. Flying Business Class is purely aspirational for most, a lifetime experience for some, and a must for a select few. With Business Class, the journey itself becomes a fun experience: you don’t have to wait in line at the airport; you get access to airport lounges ; you interact with attentive personnel; you are treated to gourmet food and quality wines; and you can sleep in a comfortable flat-bed for total relaxation. But which airline has the best Business Class cabin product anno 2022? Here’s my selection of the top 10 best Business Class cabins for long-haul flights (reflecting my own personal preferences).

There is more information (with trip reports & YouTube videos) below my slideshow. What is your favorite airline for flying long-haul Business Class? Leave a comment .

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10. BRITISH AIRWAYS

While British Airways’ Business Class (dubbed Club World) raised the bar worldwide two decades ago with the introduction of the first fully lie-flat seat and an innovative “Ying/Yang” seat plan, the seat concept itself is now dated and outclassed by some of its competitors. So you would not expect British Airways to end up in a top 10 list like this one, but it remains one of my preferred airlines for long-haul travel, because the product is consistent across its wide-body fleet and the seat is extremely private (as long as you don’t end up along the aisle). Also, British Airways has dramatically increased its onboard product over the past years, with improved catering (from DO&CO), excellent bedding, and stylish amenity kits, which rival the best in the skies. In 2019, the airline also introduced a new suite concept onboard its A350 and B777 planes, with direct-aisle access, a suite door for greater privacy, luxurious flat-bed seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, enviable 18.5-inch inflight entertainment screens, and 40 % more storage space per seat (including a vanity unit and mirror).

• Official website :  British Airways .
• Review : read my review of British Airways’ new Business Class suite in a Boeing 777 here .
• Review : read my review of British Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A380 here .
• Review : read my review of British Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 747 here .
• Review : read my review of British Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777 here .
• Review : read my review of British Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 here .

9. EMIRATES

The success of Emirates’ Business Class product is very much based on the comfort and space of its Airbus A380 fleet, and that’s why the mega plane is rolled out on major international routes of the Dubai based carrier. With a staggered 1–2–1 configuration in Business Class, each passenger is assured of direct aisle access and a significant amount of privacy. The window Business Class seats are perfect for solo travelers, while the dual and more intimate seats in the center of the cabin are perfect for partners traveling together. Mammoth amenity kits, a huge inflight entertainment selection, and a roomy and well-appointed bar on the upper deck makes flying Emirates’ A380 quite an event, and in addition, the ground service matches the flying experience (e.g. chauffeur service, a gigantic Dubai lounge). Unfortunately, the Business Class cabins in most of Emirates’ Boeing 777s are laid out in a 2-3-2 configuration (with no direct aisle access for all passengers), which is significantly inferior to the one offered on the airline’s Airbus A380 fleet.

• Official website :  Emirates
• Review : read my review of Emirates’ Business Class in an Airbus A380 here .
• Review : read my review of Emirates’ Business Class in a Boeing 777 here .

8. CATHAY PACIFIC

Hong Kong based Cathay Pacific offers a consistent and solid Business Class product, featuring a flat-bed that is just over 82 inches or 2 meters long. A bed extension increases its width by 6.5 inches or 16.5 cm to provide additional hip support, while the side storage compartment offers extra knee space for sleeping on your side. For sleeping, you may choose to leave your armrest up for more privacy, or down for more space. In fact, Cathay’s Business Class seat is identical to the one installed on several other airlines – such as American Airlines and Finnair – but Cathay deserves to take the top spot for their difference in customer service, impressive lounges, cabin crew training, and award-winning cuisine, whilst ensuring their price point still remains competitive. The carrier’s newest Business Class seat is found on its A350 planes, although it is basically a refreshed design of Cathay’s ‘old’ Business Class product onboard its B777 and A330 planes. Keep in mind that Cathay’s top-notch Business Class product is not available on some B777 planes with a regional configuration, so plan your travels accordingly.

• Official website :  Cathay Pacific
• Review : read my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in an Airbus A350 here .
• Review : read my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in an Airbus A330 here .
• Review : read my review of Cathay Pacific’s Business Class in a Boeing 777  here .

7. VIRGIN ATLANTIC

Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, traveling in Virgin Atlantic’s Business Class (called ‘Upper Class’) makes your journey something to look forward to. Over the past years, the carrier acquired several Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, which feature an entirely new Upper Class product. Laid out in a 1-2-1 configuration, every suite faces towards the window and offers deployable privacy screens. All suites transition seamlessly from an upright seat, straight to a bed. The suite also boasts Virgin Atlantic’s largest ever in-flight entertainment screen, at 18.5”and features intuitive new system, controllable by passengers’ own personal device. The Virgin Atlantic A350 also features a new bar area known as The Loft. As the largest social space in the airline’s fleet, it’s designed for customers to gather, chat, enjoy a drink or dine with friends. Virgin Atlantic has installed a slightly different although equally good Business Class product – with a fully closing privacy door – onboard its new A330neo aircraft. The latter also feature the Retreat Suite, a brand new innovation in Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class offering which consists of two exclusive suites at the front of the cabin.

• Official website : Virgin Atlantic
• Review : read my review of Virgin Atlantic’s Business Class in an Airbus A350 here .

6. ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Business Class with the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates is not business as usual. The Business Studios on Etihad’s A380s and 787 Dreamliners can be customized to suit every stage of the journey and are the embodiment of style, simplicity and functionality. The cabin has a unique dovetail design with forward and rear facing seats that creates a sense of space and freedom, with direct aisle access and convenient storage spaces. Upholstered by Poltrona Frau, the 22-inch (56 cm) wide seat converts into a comfortable fully flat bed of up to 6 feet and 8 inches (203 cm). The Business Studio offers a space for everything, including a concealed storage, a meal table and a separate large side table that can be used for laptops and other personal belongings when you are dining. Located between First and Business Class, there’s also a lounge on the A380 that seats up to six guests and is fitted with seatbelts, power supply and connectivity ports. Etihad’s recently acquired A350s feature  a different Business Class product, with 44 Business Class seats with private doors spread across 11 rows in a 1-2-1 configuration. Unfortunately, Etihad Airways’ A320 and B777 planes feature a less glamorous Business Class product.

• Official website :  Etihad Airways
• Review : read my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777 here .
• Review : read my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner here .
• Review : read my review of Etihad Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A330 here .

5. AIR FRANCE

In 2022, Air France unveiled its new long-haul Business Class seat, which is progressively rolled out on its Boeing 777 fleet: reverse herringbone suites in a 1-2-1 layout, featuring cool gadgets such as sliding doors, wireless charging, and bluetooth audio. The incredibly private Business Class seat, attentive service, gourmet cuisine designed by Michelin starred chefs, a carefully selected wine and Champagne list, and a wide selection of in-flight entertainment make for an excellent flight experience, which is hard to beat and which confirms Air France’s position as Europe’s most glamorous airline. On top of that, there’s one little-known feature that makes Air France’s new Business Class product even more special and unique. Its bulkhead seats – which are located in rows 1 and 9 – offer an enormous amount of extra space, which equals that and even tops the space you usually find in First Class cabins. IMHO, these are currently the world’s best Business Class seats and they seem to represent some sort of a “Business Class Plus” product.

• Official website : Air France
• Review : read my review of Air France’s Business Class in a Boeing 787 here .
• Review : read my review of Air France’s Business Class in a Boeing 777 here .

4. SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Singapore Airlines has always been synonymous with lavishing luxury in the skies. And the airline does not fail to impress. With their width of 30 inches or 75 cm, the carrier’s Business Class seats on its A350 and B777 aircraft are the widest in the world (too wide for comfort, according to some). The unrivaled space between each seat is a hallmark of the four-abreast (1-2-1) configuration that offers all passengers direct access to the aisle. Designed by JPA and introduced in 2017 on their A380 aircraft, the carrier’s new Business Class seat – albeit more narrow – is even better than the previous incarnation of the seat. A large back shell on every seat creates a cocoon-like feel for more privacy while the center divider can be fully lowered to form double beds, making the two center seats an ideal choice for customers such as families traveling together. Singapore Airlines also offers a fine restaurant-style setting and culinary service at 30,000 feet. Each menu, specially created by a panel of celebrated chefs from around the globe, is sure to appeal to the discerning epicure within you.

• Official website :  Singapore Airlines
• Review : read my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A350 here .
• Review : read my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A380 here .
• Review : read my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in an Airbus A330 here .
• Review : read my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 here .
• Review : read my review of Singapore Airlines’ Business Class in a Boeing 777 here .

3. ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS (ANA)

All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s largest airline, has collaborated with famed architect  Kengo Kuma  and leading British designers  Acumen to roll out a total of twelve completely redesigned Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, which are mainly deployed on the carrier’s long-haul routes. At the heart of ANA’s new product investment is a brand new seat design for Business Class called “The Room”. Inspired by modern, multifunctional Japanese living spaces, The Room offers flexible doors for personal privacy that can also be adjusted to share the space with fellow travel companions – from dining together with the family to conducting meetings with colleagues. With its bold forward and rearward seat layout, The Room represents one of the largest Business Class seating environments in the world – with a wide sofa which is double the width to previous Business Class seating. With a design focus on minimization and de-cluttering, the Business Class seat offers a ‘place for everything’ including discreet areas for all personal belongings, with deep blue accent hues precisely placed inside each compartment.

• Official website : All Nippon Airways (ANA)

Taiwan based EVA Air calls its international Business Class ‘Royal Laurel Class’, providing passengers with comfortable sleeping space for a sufficient rest that is free from disturbances. The seats in Royal Laurel Class onboard EVA’s B777s and B787s are configured in a 1-2-1 layout that maximizes space. Privacy is assured through fixed panels that help create your own personal area. At the push of a button, each seat converts into an approximately 82 inches (2 meter) long bed, enabling passengers to lie down, get comfortable and sleep on long-haul flights. Thoughtful touches include a space to hang your jacket, a shoe cabinet, a retractable armrest, and a cocktail table. This excellent Business Class product is complemented by exclusive amenity kits, noise-canceling headphones, Fiji water, mouth-watering cuisine from all over the world (ranging from luscious beef steak to delicious lobster), and the warm, friendly service EVA Air is known for. To top it all, EVA Air is one of the few airlines to offer pajamas in Business Class; loose and comfortable, these garments are perfect for slumbering on long-haul flights.

• Official website : Eva Air
• Review : read my review of Eva Air’s Business Class in a Boeing 777 here .

1. QATAR AIRWAYS

In 2017, Qatar Airways took its Business Class product to a new, unprecedented level of luxury and style, raising the bar for all of its competitors. The so-called ‘QSuite’ features not only Business Class suites with sliding doors for total privacy but also double beds, allowing passengers in adjoining seats to create their own private room. Adjustable panels and movable TV monitors on the center four seats also allow colleagues, friends or families traveling together to transform their space into a four person suite, allowing them to work, dine and socialize together. Each seat is crafted with thoughtful and luxurious details such as hand-stitched Italian leather and satin rose gold finishing. To further complement the customizable on-board seating experience that passengers will now enjoy, Qatar Airways is also launching a new food and beverage concept, introducing a menu that offers a host of new dining choices. The QSuite, which makes Business Class look First Class, is only available on selected routes and aircraft (A350-1000s and some retrofitted B777s and A350-900s).

• Official website :  Qatar Airways
• Review : read my review of Qatar Airways’ Qsuite Business Class in an Airbus A350 here .
• Review : read my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in an Airbus A330 here .
• Review : read my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 787 Dreamliner here .
• Review : read my review of Qatar Airways’ Business Class in a Boeing 777 here .

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60 Comments

If you are very tall (6’4″+) take it from me- Cathay is the only way to go (probably American as well). BA, Emirates (777 and A380) and Singapore are disastrous and you will deeply resent having paid good money to feel like Gulliver!

I would just like to mention LAN Airlines; as I am a frequent traveler to many countries in South America. Their service is second to none in the region; especially their Primera Classe. American Airlines, their main competitor doesn’t even come close with their old 757 fleet that doesn’t even have sleeper seats, terrible food and worse cabin service by an apathetic & tenured crew.

LAN offers fully flat sleeper seats, privacy, endless entertainment choices and good food; serviced by a well-trained cabin crew. They also offer many direct flights from U.S. Gateway cities. To top it off, you can always use your Aadvantage Miles to book a Business Class seat on LAN. It’s also worth mentioning that their Business Class fare sales are beyond reasonable, considering that many direct flights range from 9-15 hours.

Actually I don’t consider a good business class all those with the tilted seats with odd views from the window. Iberia is as good as many of the ones on the list and I wouldn’t include others as American Airlines

You missed Lufthansa, Japan Airlines, and Asiana

Is this a joke? Swiss and BA in the top 10?

No Turkish Airlines?

No Cathay Pacific, huge omission !!!

srsly ba should not be on this list, how is cathay, af new business, and eva not on this list?

Swiss is nice on the new 777

Where is Turkish Airlines? Best food in the skies, the best business class lounge and the Flight Attendants who are professional, attentive, friendly and not cold as the Germans/Austrians and the Swiss & not robotic and plastic like the Asians!

China Airlines business class is amazing, Comfort is great and it looks super classy

I flew Business on Etihad back from BKK to LHR via Abu Dhabi and it was fantastic. The 777 out of Bangkok was very good but the A380 from AUH was something else again. The in-flight service was superb. I loved the business lounge at Abu Dhabi too. My only issue is that the airport itself, especially the security checks, was like stepping back into the third world.

Since the introduction of the new CEO, Alex Cruz, who came from budget airline Vueling, BA is cost cutting left right and centre. It now has a feel of a low cost airline, especially in the european/ domestic routes, even more so for coach passengers who now even have to pay for bottled water. Club europe seating pitch reduced from 34″ to 30″, a reduction that tallys with the same present pitch in economy. Why would you chose to fly BA club in Europe? Reduced pay for cabin crew, reduced menus, Buy on Board for those at the back. If you’re a 1st passenger, you’d even have to pay for a cup of tea on a domestic connection! Despite my Avios points from work, the next social flight I book, won’t be with BA. Willy Walsh has again, a lot to answer for.

Hardly a comprehensive sample. There are too many other competitors to offer up such a glib survey which hardly addresses the heading, the best airlines for long haul business class. We all have our favourites but this is smacks of sponsorship.

What is BA even doing on this list? It’s appalling. So cramped in Business ( 7 across versus 4 on say QR. Th service is crap, the flight attendants are old and overweight or prancers and the food is diabolical. Remove them now, stop misleading people that their Business Class is any good. It’s rubbish.

How BA got into this list amazes me. Your own comment that BA food is “hit and miss” is an understatement. I tolerated BA business from SYD to SIN and it was disgraceful. The seat was so narrow I could not roll over without getting up. FAs reached accross me to serve those poor souls facing rearwards … they could have went behind me. After that debacle I paid more to fly SIN-SYD first class. I had a good sleep but when I was woken to have “breakfast” I opted for the “hot” meal which was a dried old finger bun stuffed with some cheesey unmentionable that was inedible. When I emailed my concerns to BA I was sent a “we pride ourselves on the freshness of our food etc etc” you can imagine the drivel. AB … NEVER again … and I am one world emerald so I know good service when I see it …. where is Cathay in this list … they are a truely 5 start airline

Its great to see the different airline business lounges around the world and this one looked pretty fabulous.

Yeah, I’m never flying BA Business class again. Period. I’m sick of it now. I may fly 1st class but I’ll need to find a replacement now. I seriously think Cathay Pacific should be #10 or even higher. I just flew Business class on a Cathay Pacific A350-900 and it was AMAZING!!! Maybe you should do a reissue, Lux.

It is almost as interesting who isn’t on the list as who is. Qantas, Lufthansa, Air France all do a nice job maybe top 20 not top 10. BA, American, Delta, Air Canada perhaps need to rethink their offering.

Recently returned from Kiev flying r/t on Austrian 767 biz. It was very nice but service felt a little rushed.

LOT Polish Airlines is not a Luthansa Group member but of course is a Miles & More member

How about All Nippon Airways? Their Business Class is also very good — seat configuration, inflight service and meals 👍👍👍

Do you mean Etihad’s A330, A340, and B777 Feature a less glamorous product? Also, United’s new Polaris Business Class is only available on their new 777-300ER fleet which idk if they’re using yet.

I can’t believe BA is on the list. Have you ever tried BA on the London to BLR or London to MAA routes? Its more like band aid on economy class. Cathay Pacific isn’t on the list and BA made it? Seriously?

I was surprised EVA was not on the list. Excellent biz class and on top ten on skytrax

omg you really put BA in the list ! those seats are rubbish !

Agree re Austrian, flew Vienna to Miami, and the lunch service was very rushed, why the rush on an 11 hour flight! Guess it gives the flight attendants more time to gossip in the Galley! Qatar were great, true on demand dining, Singapore also know how to pace the service!

I am surprised that AA and ANA weren’t in there. Delta and Air Canda are definitely in the top 20 too.

I like how Qatar does the a la carte dining option. Not all travelers are on the same schedule. Being able to get a breakfast instead of a dinner is a nice touch.

i’ve flown business class Cathay Pacific & Air Canada: both very good!!…comfortable seat converts to flat comfortable bed, cozy duvet; nice amenities, adequate space & storage; good food & service. Neither on your list of best 10? But BA is your #10??? despite the videos of the narrow seats with separate levered foot-leg rest that aligns to be flat narrow bed, poor storage; & middle seat faces backwards???? I appreciate business class luxury on CP & AC after years of economy-travel. We’re considering BA for long haul flight to India for its price compared to AC but I have serious concerns considering it’s a 1-connection flight with plane change in London compared to AC’s direct flight & seeing BA’s business class seat & seating arrangements are scary. Oh My!! I hope that I can convince my hubbie that the extra$ for AC will be worth it.

Hallo, Thanks for your great info. Sometimes not every airplane has the new version. Where can we find this information? Thanks and enjoy your next trips

ANA not on the list????

Virgin Atlantic not on the list!

Sorry but BA business top 10, absolutely no way, not even top 50. It’s rubbish. However I cannot wait to experience the new A350 that will bring BA back into the top 10 by the looks of it.

love the online survey..so cool

I agree with the comment about BA being in the top 10. Ranking the seats is important, but I look for service. Maybe another poll?

BA is not worthy to be in the top ten terrible service. And Delta while it’s a suite, it’s an illusion as the space is very small. You are right that Singapore and Qatar are the best, however the service on Singapore airlines is better.

BA?????????????????? The worst business experience ever. You must receive payment from them to include here. It should be at the top of the WORST products.

BA business class is mediocre quality at best. It should not on the list.

Check Air Astana business class. Greate service and even flat bed on A321. Amazing experience.

My wife and I fly BNE to LAX On VA twice a year. She and our daughter recently flew SQ. Both thought that VA was better. Both hard and soft product. We sometimes fly premium economy and VA is better than SQ there as well. J class on VA to LAX is worthy of top 10.

I love ANA’s new business class.

I would be interested in your rating of business class for couples traveling together who actually want to talk with each other. Many airlines have seats/layouts that are not conducive to this. Thanks. Appreciate your informative blogb

Delta in the top ten..now that is ridiculous! Horrorful meals, rude F/A, no luxury at all. Also VA is a joke. Meals Overall very simple and not a touch of brilliance

I have flown Qantas and Emirates Business Class…both great Also a flight with Regent Airways from BKK to CGP Business. A Bangladesh Private Airline and good service for a 3 hr flight. Unfortunately I think they are close to folding.

Informative review! Please note, however, that EVA 787s do not have reverse herringbone seats.

I think LAN and Omanair should be mentioned too way better than Emirates !

Qatar airways business class is reasonable priced however recently Qatar introduces ‘classic’ business class fare with no acces to lounge and seat selection at check in only. Your post ‘best airline for long haul business class’ mentioned that business class fare entitled you to airport lounges which is not always the standard as obviously other airlines will follow this pricing strategy. Further totally agreed with your choice of airlines for long haul business class particularly Cathay stands top in their customer service and punctuality, BA is mediocre.

Kindly answer this future customer. If these guys drop out of the sky, will you compensate my near ones according to class???

The definition of “long haul” is missing in the text. It should have been the first sentence.

We can’t even vote for Turkish airlines? Are you jealous Brit?

With the grounding of Qatar’s A350s, there is less than 50% chance, your aircraft will have QSuites. Currently, it is better to choose another airline for long distance travel. Especially for Australia, as Emirates and Singapore have more flights than Qantas, to Australia. From the USA, it is hard beat Emirates service even with aisle access being an issue in 3 of the 7 business class seats. On the B777-200, only the window seats lack direct aisle access, so that 2 out 6 seats. Since it is far easier to get award seats on Emirates, one has to measure that against every other carrier serving their destination.

We’re in our 70s, and first and only business class flight from Melbourne to Lon.We’ll ever have. Am childishly excited! Have been checking your reviews, and there’s a crazy disappointment already for me. No amenity kits on Singapore Airlines. I was told there are but you have to ask for them. It’s only a trivial thing! But it still is a disappointment for me!. Bit worried about foot room, but neither of us are six feet anymore!

Personally I like Virgin best it’s not just about the seats but the ambience. The friendliness of staff etc, for me Virgin nails service.

It is not fair if you do not take into account one of the best Business Class with Turkish Airlines. Definetely the best Food ever and always smiling faces of the flight attendants.

A “top ten” business class featuring BA is make-believe or paid advertising… nothing lives up to modern business class; ground service, on board service, dining, seats; its all sub-par.

Thanks on your marvelous posting! I definitely enjoyed reading it, you can be a great author.

Your insights into the top 10 long-haul Business Class airlines are a game-changer for globetrotters! ✈️✨ Traveling in style just reached new heights. For exclusive deals on luxury travel essentials, check out [Your Preferred Link]. Elevate your journey with premium comfort and unparalleled service. Bon voyage! 🌍🥂 #TravelInStyle #LuxuryTravel #ExclusiveDeals

Oman air business class should be in the top ten

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Ten Best and Worst Airplanes and Airlines to Fly

The Ten Best Airplanes to Fly

A pilot rates both airlines and his favorite rides in the sky.

By Jamie Kimmel

What’s the worst plane ever? What’s the best passenger aircraft in the world? What are the best commercial planes in service? What’s the best airline to fly, or the best airline in the world?

For this, we turned to an expert in all things aeronautical, and here are some of his answers.

We asked frequent flyer, airline pilot, and author of Cockpit Confidential , Patrick Smith for some further insight on what he considers the best and worst airplanes and airlines flying today.

We learned that Asian airlines seem to have the best reputations while American airlines tend to have the worst. Here are Smith’s choices and opinions about airplanes.

“When you read the passenger polls, it’s the same names over and over: Emirates, Qatar, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines , et al. But experiences can vary flight to flight, depending on the attitudes and attentiveness of the crew.

In 2019’s Sktraxx rankings, Qatar is number 1, followed by Singapore, ANA All Nippon Airways, and Cathay Pacific.

I recently flew Qatar Airways business class and found it surprisingly disappointing.”

“I’m beginning to think that for all of the bad press and bad reputations duly earned by U.S. carriers, they’re becoming much better.

Delta inflight is a Star

Delta Air Lines, for example, has the best in-flight entertainment system in the entire industry. At the same time, airlines like Qatar , Emirates, et al., are perhaps overrated.

It’s that problem of a reputation preceding you: we expect U.S. airlines to be poor, and we expect airlines like Cathay and Qatar to be the best. Certain carriers have built their identities around presumably being the best. But are they? I’m not so sure.”

Here is Smith’s take. “The thing is, though, I’ve flown on Qatar Airways. Twice, actually. Two trips and four separate legs, on 777, A380, and A350 aircraft.

All in the carrier’s highly touted business class — also deemed by Skytrax, in a separate award, as “Best in the World.” So that was the best cabin in the world, on the best airline in the world. Supposedly.

And that’s where Skytrax and I part ways. I think maybe Qatar is one of those carriers who’ve built an identity around presumably  being the best, rather than actually being it. While they offer a good product, my own experiences show it to be overrated. It’s a case, maybe, of a reputation preceding you — something we see a lot in the airline business.”

I find his power of suggestion argument pretty insightful. On a closer look, I investigated what everyone (including Smith) is saying about the aforementioned airlines.

Cathay Pacific

This is the prime airline of Hong Kong and many people agree the food is fantastic. Not only the food but the seats are very comfortable. The airline flies wide-body Boeing 777, 747s, and Airbus A330s and 340s.

The planes are very quiet and the staff is very attentive to passengers. Also, the entertainment is quite diverse as most flights are international thus need to accommodate to a variety of cultural preferences.

Qatar Airways

Qatar has had mixed reviews. On one hand, the customers love the staff overall. On the other, most complain that there are not enough food or drinks served to keep people satisfied during long international flights. Some passengers love the seats, others not so much.

Smith said that the controls for their inflight entertainment are frustrating to use and that meals aren’t served on a regular schedule in business class. You have to summon the staff to get food and snacks.

Patrick himself said he was rather disappointed when he took a Qatar flight in business class despite hearing so many good things about the airline. Qatar flies a range of wide-body Airbus planes and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. They have 13 Airbus A380s on order for the future.

Singapore Airlines: The Best Airline to Fly?

With Singapore Airlines it seems the type of plane people fly in is what lodges most complaints among flyers. The older models do not have enough legroom and the in-flight entertainment is lacking. Also regardless of the aircraft model, Singapore is a bit on the pricey side. However, they were the first airline to use the double-decker Airbus A380.

They offer four different classes: Full-sized suites, first-class, business, and economy. They even published a cookbook of their culinary delights and more featured on the planes. Singapore boasts a mix of all of the top wide-body jets.

“History’s most award-winning carrier, Singapore Airlines was the Skytrax winner of “World’s Best Airline” for 2018. It was formed in the early 1970s when Malaysia-Singapore Airlines split into two carriers: today’s Singapore Airlines (SQ) and the star-crossed Malaysia Airlines (MH)” Patrick wrote on his blog.

This airline based out of Dubai, U.A.E. is known for its in-flight entertainment. They were one of the first airlines to provide entertainment to passengers. They have the most channels (between 600 to 1000) to choose from than any current airline.

Their newest planes have outlets to charge electronics, docking for iPods, and in-flight Wi-Fi, ranging from $2.75 for an iPhone to $7.50 for use on a laptop.

Emirates has 211 planes, the largest fleet in the world, including more A380s 50, and more Boeing 777s than any other airline.

Loyal customers have come to expect nothing but the best from this company and are rarely disappointed. Their first and business class flyers (as well as Skyward Gold members) have access to 32 lounges in 28 cities courtesy of Emirates. On their A380 the first-class suites even come with two showers and a spa. First and Business classes also have access to an opulent lounge.

“All seats have a small minibar, conveniently placed USB and power ports, and a shoe locker. The window shades are electrically controlled. Emirates ICE system (Information, Communications, Entertainment) is accessed via touch-screen or through a remote-control handset.

There are more than a thousand movies, television, and music options to pick from (including a large number of films from India, China, and elsewhere; this is Emirates after all).”

“If you’re not an Emirates regular, you might have some trouble deciphering the workings of the various seat and ICE controls. During boarding, one of the cabin attendants sensed, quite correctly, that I had no idea what I was doing and kindly gave me a tutorial,” said Smith.

I personally love Jet Blue. I have been flying with them since I was 18 and I have not looked back. They do not have first-class because the idea is that everyone should feel comfortable on their journey.

They do not disappoint either. Surprisingly they are quite affordable for what they offer. One aspect of Jet Blue that appeals to many flyers is that they employ dozens of former police officers as flight attendants.

Something nice to know in case any passengers try to get rowdy in the cabin. Jet Blue has only one type of large aircraft–the Airbus A320 and they have now introduced  Jet Blue Mint, using new Airbus A321s with lie-flat beds.

They also fly the Embraer 190, a Brazilian-made 100 passenger jet on shorter routes. In 2018, Embraer is now 80 percent owned by Boeing, the US planemaker.

DirecTV and free snacks like chips and nuts are available to all passengers (with TV monitors for each seat.) The middle of the plane offers slightly more legroom but I have not consciously noticed this. The seats are also extra comfy.

Jet Blue started out only flying to a handful of major cities in the US but have since expanded to include international flights in the Caribbean, Mexico, and South America.

It has been a while since I have boarded a plane however and it seems in the last year loyal customers have noticed a decline in the Jet Blue experience. Perhaps because of inflation frequent travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with the lower quality of snacks and some of the plane’s amenities being broken occasionally (chair lean and TV).

American Airlines

Smith weighed in on his opinions of Delta Airlines’ current fleet, which used to include some of the oldest planes in the sky, the MD 80s that they inherited when they merged with Northwest a few years ago.

No TVs, cramped seats, and what many consider the least comfortable flight experience in the sky.

“So much of this depends on which class you’re flying in — first, business, economy, or one of those new “economy plus” sections — and where, exactly, you’re sitting within those sections.

Some premium cabin seats are better than others; some economy seats are (a lot) better than others, even on the same aircraft. Therefore it’s really impossible to say that a particular aircraft type is a better ride than another model. It depends.”

“For smoothness and susceptibility to turbulence, it mostly depends on where you’re sitting. It tends to be bumpiest in the very back because you’re furthest from the plane’s centers of gravity and lift.”

He did have a lot to say about the Airbus A380s however. Ironically, Delta has recently stated that they would never consider the A380 because of their opinion that the two-engine jumbos like the 777 are more reliable than the four-engine monster A380. No US airline flies this big plane, and it’s not likely to change anytime soon.

Airbus A380

This “bus” is adequately named. It is the largest passenger plane that is even a double-decker! In 2018, it was announced that Airbus will stop making the A-380 in 2021, after losing many more orders from their biggest customer, Emirates.

CNN reported that “Upon delivery of the new aircraft in London, Tim Clark, Emirates’ president, said in a statement that the A380 will “remain Emirates’ flagship product for the coming years” calling the aircraft “a vital pillar of our network plans.”

In 2019, Airbus announced that they were going to stop making the world’s largest passenger plane after 2021. It’s just too big, airlines have found that having a double-decker plane requires special jetways and the thing is just too big to fill up. Most airlines are opting for the A350 instead.

“It’s a disastrously ugly plane on the outside, but comfortable on the inside. It’s roomy and very quiet,” says Patrick. According to his blog, he was able to order a cocktail from the plane’s bar on a business-class flight.

“The upper deck is split between 14 fully-enclosed first-class suites and 76 business class cubicles in a four-across, 1-2-1 configuration. My cubicle was a window seat, left side, about midway down the cabin.”

“The seat is a full-flat sleeper with a console and minibar to one side. It’s not a totally enclosed suite like you’d find in first class, but the chair is set deeply within the cubicle.

Cozy and Ensconced

You feel cozy and ensconced, and the side console acts as a privacy barrier, putting a good deal of space between you and the aisle (or if you’re in the center section, your closest seat-mate). Window seats have thigh-level storage compartments along the side, similar to those in the upper deck of the 747.”

“The video screen is huge and crystal clear, and the carrier’s noise-reduction headsets are the most comfortable I’ve ever worn. On the information channel, passengers can choose between three different external camera views, including one from high atop the A380′s tail. Inflight Wi-Fi and mobile-phone calls are available for a fee (the Wi-Fi is reasonably priced; cell calls are expensive).”

Smith’s friend describes the A380 business trips as the Vegas of flying.

Max Hartshorne, the editor of GoNOMAD, flew the A380 on Qantas and shares Smith’s view. “It’s a different experience than any other plane, it feels roomier and you can walk around during a long flight,” he said.

Airbus A350

This is Airbus’s replacement for the giant A380, and it’s no slouch in terms of size, offering 366 passengers in three different classes, and much-improved fuel economy.

The A350 is like Goldilocks’ bowl of porridge–just the right size and price.

Airbus A320

This plane is also part of the Airbus family, it is a smaller aircraft than the A380 and offers similar amenities. However, it is designed to carry approximately 220 passengers so “smaller” is relative.

Some cabins offer LED lighting options and customers can get information through a touchscreen.

It is also another quiet ride. The A320 is currently undergoing some improvements to enhance the flyer’s experience.

Patrick Smith: “Boeing’s new 787 is also very quiet, and the cabin air isn’t as dry as on most commercial aircraft. JAL’s Recaro economy chairs have generous legroom, 11-inch video screens (Ethiopian’s are 15 inches!) cupholders, coat hooks, AC power ports, and a USB connection.”

“If one thing gives it away, it’s the windows. The 787′s cabin windows are a good 40 percent bigger than normal. There were two hot meals and a snack service. During the in-between hours, a buffet was set up in the mid and rear galleys with snacks and bottled water.”

During Hartshorne’s flight to Japan on a Boeing 787, he noticed that in all of the lavatories there are bidets like you find all over Japan. Refreshing!

For more information about such questions as “should I be scared of turbulence?” visit Cockpit Confidential on Ask the Pilot

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16 thoughts on “ Ten Best and Worst Airplanes and Airlines to Fly ”

Delta airways is One of the best airlines in the world

I personally think that the a340 is underrated. I have to admit its takeoffs are not incredibly smooth. But it is excellent at cruising and lands buttery almost everytime. Plus, it is regarded as the safest airplane in the world. I once flew air belgium in an airbus a340-300 and I felt so comfortable in my chair.

List of the worst commercial aircraft in my perspective. 5. Boeing 707 4. Airbus A330-200 3. Bombardier Q400 Dash 8 2. Tupolev Tu-144 1. Concorde

Idiots ! It does NOT take “half the fuel” in a A380 to take off. Get your facts straight.

Where is Qatar and ethihad

I’ve flew with Emirates, Qantas, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways. Singapore and Thai I found to be on par with each other in many regards. Both offered reasonable entertainment, decent sized meals, friendly and assistive staff etc. I am a member of Emirates which I found provides excellent service!!! They offer 2 hot meals with diverse range available. They offer snacks inbetween of noodles/nuts/biscuits etc. The staff are all extremely polite and assistive and when you make a request will generally offer to throw in some extras (eg; if you ask for a wine they’ll offer you 2 and a bag peanuts etc). Their seats have always been more comfortable than the other companies I’ve used. They usually have a very multicultural staff team which means they speak more languages etc. Absolutely 5 star service! Qantas on the other hand provides a terrible service. Most of the staff I’ve observed working for them are bogans. They are often rude. They make offensive jokes about their clientele. Their meals are substandard and the staff look down on you for requesting possible alternative options, despite asking politely. Their staff appear begrudging post requesting anything. The staffs body language is often observed aggressive. Their entertainment systems are nothing special. Summary I would not recommend Qantas on any level! Most interesting to me is that Emirates and Qantas are sister companies but their services could not be any different, despite the cost being identical. I note I’ve flown on both airlines many times and my observations have remained consistent.

In my opinion, Emirates’s 777 is the best experience I’ve had. Flown across the Atlantic multiple times. Service and comfort 10 stars.

I have had THE WORST experiences with u.s. companies…. borderline torture. Asian airlines have ALWAYS been better… Europe being a close second. Oddly, my last two flights back to the US were on US carriers and were new planes, comfortable, great customer service, wonderful food (with what they have to work with… let’s at least acknowledge they have time, space, and other resource limitations)… it was on par with asian companies! I honestly believe some smart companies in the US poached management and staff of other regions. I don’t really have the ammo to complain! I love it!

I think that the Boeing 787 is a very good airplane, it’s unusually quiet, because of its Trent 1000 with serrated nacelles, also, the “tinted” windows is a very convenient piece of innovation, not only you can have complete light and complete darkness, you can have everything in between. The 787 is also constructed out of composite materials, too. Although my favorite is its large windows which offer a great view to an aviation buff like me. Speaking of airlines, Air Canada is my fave. it has outstanding service and a very innovative design of the business class, the food quality is good too. The Maple Leaf Lounge is also a thing you HAVE to check out!

NEVER FLY ON THE 757!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it’s loud, the screens are small, and the IFE sucks. It also takes forever to unload and is amazingly annoying, and all landings on a 757 are definitely not buttery at all.

757 was supposedly engineered to replicate the aerodynamic stability and flight characteristics of the legendary McDonnell-Douglas DC8 Super Sixty series. Not having flown on one (booked three times, twice cancelled, other a/c substituted), I cannot say whether this is true. I did do WRI-HOA both ways on DC8-63CFs. Those were some planes!!! Return trip did OKO-SEA in 7:15. Pilots throttling back to avoid going supersonic!!!

I personally like the well developed 777. As for me, my favourite aircraft are: 5. Boeing 757; Very loud. Aviators love it but ordinary passengers just think it sucks. 4. Boeing 787; Pretty nice Boeing wide-body aircraft with quiet Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 or GEnx engines + big windows. 3. Airbus A380; Gigantic Airbus aircraft. Flown on it nine times already. 2. Airbus A350; Or should I add ‘XWB’? 1. Boeing 777; Loud and exciting takeoff sound. My favourite variant is the 777-300ER. Powered by GE90-115BL engines, the 777-300ER can fly up to 13,650km.

Interesting article. I haven’t flown any of the European/Asian airlines yet. Mostly North American ones like Air Canada and United. I have to try Jet Blue it sounds like many have good things to say about it.

Delta won’t order the A-380’s because they are fond of the Two engine jumbo’s “like the 747’s.”. I’m sorry but the last I checked a 747 has four engines! Lol!

Rachel Alexander, “Ironically, Delta has recently stated that they would never consider the A380 because of their opinion that the two engine jumbos like the 777 are more reliable than the four-engine monster A380.”

I flew across pacific for the 4o years at least twice a year. I totally disagree with the writer. I flew many airlines and nothing comes even close to Singapore Airlines when it comes to service. I am surprised to see some of the name here! I would not even consider them in million years!

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The World’s Best Long-Haul Commercial Aircrafts

What influences your airline choice? Cost? Timing? Maybe your loyalty memberships? Whatever springs to mind first it’s probably not the type of aircraft that’s being used, unless you’re a real #avgeek. But if you’re flying long-haul for business, it’s worth thinking about.

New aircraft come into service regularly. They’re designed to make longer flights more comfortable with more legroom and better air filtration. Modern aircraft have quieter engines and are better for the environment too. Older models retire, destined for aviation museums, aircraft graveyards or sometimes even converted into hotels .

Even if you have no interest in plane spotting, the aircraft you step on will make a difference to your trip. More comfort equals more rest and productive trips.

Aircraft currently in service

In 2022,  CH-Aviation's report  found 23,513 commercial aircraft in active service. The picture in 2020 and 2021 cannot be easily compared as so many aircraft were grounded and stored when COVID-19 halted many flight operations.

At time of this article's update in November 2023, airlines are switching up their aircraft fleets due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Typically, the aircraft most popular for long-haul flights are:

• Boeing 747 (production ended in 2022)
• Boeing 787 Dreamliner
• Airbus A320
• Airbus A350
• Airbus A380 (production ended in 2020)

Aircraft lowdown

BOEING 787 DREAMLINER

Comfort is priority for the Dreamliner. It’s actually the aircraft chosen by Qantas for the 14-hour, 20-minute direct flight between Melbourne and Los Angeles. Boeing's particularly proud of the 787’s fuel efficiency. Combined with the composite materials used to make the planes themselves, it’s one of the most economic and energy-saving aircraft in the skies.

Key stats: 

• First commercial flight: 2011
• Seats: 242-335 passengers
• Operated by: Air Canada, British Airways, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, United Airlines

Features designed to refresh and leave you jet-lag free include:

• Improved air conditioning and filtration to regulate cabin temperature
• Reduced engine noise
• Soft LED lighting
• Windows 65% larger than the standard and dimmable at the touch of a button

AIRBUS A350

A direct competitor to the Dreamliner. The Airbus A350 feels more spacious due to its high ceilings, wide seats and straight walls. A quieter engine and ambient lighting are similar features to the Dreamliner but the A350 boasts high air quality. Unlike the 787, the windows on this aircraft are pull down, so it gets pretty dark when the lights go out.

Slight snag if you’re after a luxury experience: most A350s don’t have First Class.

• First commercial flight: 2015
• Seats: 280-366 passengers
• Operated by: Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines

Fuel-efficient measures include:

• Cost-effective and weight-saving material in the wings and fuselage
• Wing design influenced from birds to reduce drag and reduce fuel consumption

AIRBUS A380

The double decker. Still the largest commercial plane in use.

• First commercial flight: 2007
• Seats: 525-830 passengers
• Operated by: British Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qantas, Singapore Airlines

All that space means airlines can flex their design muscle.

• Air France: La Première cabin resembles an exclusive members lounge
• Emirates: onboard bar, lounges, chefs and spa showers. 
• Etihad Airways: 125-square-foot apartments known as The Residence with a lounge, en-suite shower room, double bedroom and personal butler.
• Qantas: Skybeds in Business Class
• Qatar Airways: First Class and Business bar 

These swanky additions do come at a cost, pushing the per person carbon footprint higher than the Dreamliner and A350. The A380 is a quiet and surprisingly stable aircraft for its size so on a good day you’ll barely notice you’re in flight. It’s quick too; managing London to Singapore in 14 hours and 10 minutes with British Airways.  

So what's the best?

For complete luxury and comfort nothing beats First or Business Class seats on the A380. Or Etihad’s The Residence, if you can stretch that far.

If you’re on a tighter budget or not as luxury-focused , the A350 is just as comfortable in terms of noise, light and air quality, even in Economy.

If you want a killer view from the window seat then it has to be the Dreamliner with its bigger, auto-dimmable windows.

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The Fastest Airplanes Commercial Passengers Can Fly

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

I’m lucky to have grown up in a family where we were always flying around the country, visiting family and enjoying an occasional vacation. But I’ll never forget watching "Top Gun" with my dad as a kid, amazed by the military fighter jets that could roar off of an aircraft carrier before ripping past the speed of sound. To this day, I often listen to the title song, "Danger Zone," as my much slower commercial flights accelerate down the runway.

While only military pilots get the thrill of regularly passing the speed of sound, large commercial planes regularly travel at speeds over 600 mph. Here's what to know about the fastest airplanes commercial passengers can fly, and which airlines are flying them.

What is the fastest commercial passenger jet?

For current commercial airline passengers, the fastest way to get around is the Boeing 747-8i, with a top speed of nearly 660 mph. But with limited options, you may find yourself going just a little slower on a competing alternative.

» Learn more: Our writers draft their favorite airlines

The fastest commercial passenger airliners that are in use

Boeing 747-8.

The 747 is one of the largest commercial aircraft ever built, and the 747-8 Intercontinental (747-8i) variant wins the race as the fastest commercial plane in service today. This plane is as tall as a six-story building with a top speed of Mach 0.86. That’s equivalent to 659.85 mph.

The 747-8i has a range of 7,730 nautical miles and a capacity of 410 passengers.

Unfortunately, it isn't the most accessible plane to catch a ride on, since the options are limited to Lufthansa, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, Air China and Qatar Airways.

Boeing 747-400

A member of the same Boeing 747 family, the 747-400 is a behemoth that can catapult 416 passengers across the world with a maximum speed of Mach 0.855 (656 mph). With a range of up to 7,225 nautical miles, it’s most commonly used for busy long-haul routes with high demand.

With a maximum takeoff weight of 875,000 pounds, operating a plane of this size isn't cheap. So it is no surprise that the number of places you can fly on a 747-400 is dwindling. According to flight-tracking website FlightRadar24 , current operators include Lufthansa , Korean Air, Rossiya, Air India and Air China.

Airbus A380

The Airbus A380 superjumbo is the largest passenger aircraft in operation and has a front-to-back two-story design. The A380 typically seats 400 to 550 passengers for trips over 9,000 miles. If filled to maximum capacity with one cabin class, it could potentially seat 853 people. It’s so big that some airports can’t handle the massive size.

The A380 reaches speeds of Mach 0.85, just a hair behind the 747-400. That translates to 652 mph. While the A380 ended production in 2020, 15 airlines still fly the A380. These include Air France , British Airways , Emirates, Etihad, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Qantas , Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner

The 787 Dreamliner had a rocky start, with battery fire problems causing the entire fleet to sit on the ground while a fix was rolled out. These days, due to lower operating costs and other modern features (like higher cabin oxygen and humidity), the aircraft is growing in popularity with international airlines.

The aircraft is propelled by two General Electric and Rolls-Royce engines at speeds reaching Mach 0.85, or 652 mph, making it the fastest single-aisle passenger aircraft in operation.

The Dreamliner is generally known to be quieter and more comfortable, so you may reach your destination with a little less jet lag. You’ll also get better views due to its larger windows with electronic dimming.

If you’re going to fly a long distance, this may be the most comfortable way to go without flying private. Major domestic carriers, including American Airlines and United Airlines , are among the extensive list of 787 customers .

The 777 is a workhorse for overseas flights with variations, like the 777-8 with a range of up to 8,730 nautical miles and the newer 777-9 configuration with a range of 7,285 nautical miles.

The “Triple Seven” flies at Mach 0.84, or 644 mph and can hold up to 426 passengers.

You have several options to get on board a 777. Major carriers flying this model include Aeromexico, Air Canada , Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific , Delta Air Lines , El Al Israel Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Japan Airlines , KLM Royal Dutch, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines and United Airlines.

Do you want to go faster?

The supersonic Concorde aircraft used to be the quickest way to travel. It had an impressive cruising speed of 1,350 mph, or Mach 1.75. That’s fast enough to make it from New York to London in under three hours. But those planes are long out of service, with the last flight taking place in 2003.

It’s not common, but you may be able to get somewhere faster by lucking out and catching a jet stream that occasionally brings faster speeds to planes on the way to North America from Europe. In 2019, one such flight reached 801 mph when surfing the jetstream over the Atlantic.

You can fly fast on the fastest planes in the world

While it may be fun to see over 600 mph on the in-flight entertainment screen, keep in mind that you’re probably only saving a few minutes once you take into account airport parking, security and ground transportation. If you’re flying commercial on any of these planes, know that you’re enjoying one of the fastest, safest and most convenient ways to travel ever invented.

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The Best First and Business Class Seats on Domestic Airline Routes [2024]

Former Senior Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

What makes a domestic first and business class airline great, the 5 best domestic first class airlines and cabins, the 5 best domestic business class airlines and cabins, final thoughts.

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Key Takeaways

• The American Airlines A321T is considered the best domestic first class experience with lie-flat seats and a product that rivals international business class.
• Hawaiian Airlines Leihōkū Suites is considered the best domestic business class experience with fully lie-flat beds and privacy screens.
• It’s important to note that the terms “first class” or “business class” are often marketing gimmicks that don’t mean one product is better than another.

When most people think of domestic first class, a recliner seat is the first image that comes to mind. However, with airlines facing tough competition to fill their first and business class cabins and a landscape changing faster than ever before, there’s much more to premium flying in the United States than meets the eye.

Flying is more popular than ever, and airlines are desperate to get their market share, resulting in competing and ever-more-luxurious premium cabin products.

In this guide, we’ll show you the top 5 first class products followed by the top 5 business class products that fly domestically. We’ll also demonstrate why, most of the time, business class is actually better than first class.

Domestic premium cabin products aren’t held to the same standard as international products.

This is not only because the flights are shorter but also because U.S. airlines aren’t exactly world-renowned for the best hospitality or service.

For example, neither American Airlines nor United Airlines come to mind when thinking of the “world’s best airlines.” Instead, frequent flyers are far more likely to come up with names like Singapore Airlines , Qatar Airways , Cathay Pacific , or Emirates .

We considered the following aspects of a first or business class flight when determining our rankings:

• Lounge and ground experience
• Hard product (seat size and comfort, amenities, in-flight monitor, cabin configuration, and privacy)
• Soft product (food and beverages, amenity kit, customer service, and staff attentiveness)
• Award pricing and availability

First, first class:

1. American Airlines A321 Transcontinental First Class

The best domestic first class experience out there is on the American Airlines A321T.

American Airlines has hundreds of Airbus A321 aircraft. But most notably, it maintains a subfleet of specially configured A321s, known as the A321T. This designation means that these aircraft are reserved for premium transcontinental routes . In fact, if you don’t watch for this important distinction, you could be stuck with a recliner seat instead of a lie-flat seat.

This is a narrow-body aircraft, and in first class, there are only 2 seats in each row in a 1-1 configuration . With 5 rows, the 10 lie-flat seats with direct aisle access are dubbed “Flagship First Class.”

With American Airlines’ Flagship First Class , you get a product that’s akin to international business class and is even better in some aspects .

Let’s first talk about which routes offer this product. Currently, American Airlines operates the A321T on premium transcontinental routes , including:

• Los Angeles (LAX) – New York (JFK)
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Boston (BOS)
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Miami (MIA)
• San Francisco (SFO) – New York (JFK)
• Orange County (SNA) – New York (JFK)

These highly competitive premium routes attract many business and leisure travelers, which is why American Airlines excels here.

Let’s start with the ground experience. The ground experience features Flagship First Check-In, an exclusive check-in area with expedited security access. Additionally, you get priority privileges like being the first to receive your checked bags after you land.

What’s more, you get access to some of the best first class lounges in the world —  on a domestic flight, no less! 

With a ticket in Flagship First Class, you get access to the Flagship First Dining, which has astonishingly good à la carte dining, unprecedented privacy, luxe shower suites, premium alcohol, and an overall exceptional lounge experience.

You’ll find a Flagship Lounge at:

• Chicago (ORD)
• Los Angeles (LAX)*
• Miami (MIA)*
• New York (JFK)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)*
• London Heathrow (LHR)

American plans on opening a Flagship Lounge in Philadelphia (PHL) in late 2024.

*Flagship First Dining is available at these locations. It is a separate area of the Flagship Lounges, and you’ll need to be flying Flagship First Class on a qualifying ticket in order to access it. This means that even top-tier ConciergeKey members can’t access it.

The first class seats are in a reverse herringbone configuration, each measuring 21 inches wide, offering 62 inches of pitch, and providing 82.5 inches of length in bed mode. That’s a lot of real estate all to yourself .

You’re also provided Bose QuietComfort 25 Acoustic Noise Canceling headphones. These headphones are better than most international business class headphones, which is fantastic.

You receive Casper amenities , which are ultra-plush and comfortable, and an amenity kit from Athletic Propulsion Labs and ZENOLOGY.

The inflight connectivity is excellent, with American Airlines installing the blazing-fast ViaSat system. This was a wise business decision on AA’s part, as these transcontinental routes have a mind-boggling number of business travelers. Lastly, the dining is decent, and the customer service is adequate.

All in all, this is the most well-rounded domestic flight experience , especially when you factor in the amazing lounges, private seats, amenity kits, and food.

The prominent complaint is the service, which can be lacking or inconsistent. This isn’t terribly surprising, as U.S.-based airlines aren’t known for offering the best service.

Have your heart set on flying American Airlines Flagship First Class? Check out our complete guide on the  best ways to book American Airlines first class .

2. Hawaiian Airlines A330 First Class

Next up is Hawaiian Airlines, which operates the Airbus A330 on most of its premium routes from Hawaii . The first class seats are in a 2-2-2 configuration, and it honestly looks more like you’re flying in a spaceship than a plane.

Hawaiian Airlines began adding these seats in 2016, and they’re a neat and comfortable way to get to and from Hawaii. The first class seats are fully lie-flat, making it one of the most competitive hard products.

What’s unusual about this first class product is that the seats don’t have inflight monitors. Instead, Hawaiian Airlines provides passengers with iPads .

The food and beverage service aboard Hawaiian Airlines is known to be excellent, but Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t offer in-flight Wi-Fi . Since Hawaii is primarily a leisure destination, this is understandable. After all, there aren’t many people who need to do work when flying to Hawaii.

Importantly, the first class product is interesting, and the crew’s friendliness is somewhat of a rarity, especially on domestic carriers.

Overall, this first class product is fantastic and arguably the most fun and comfortable way to get to Hawaii. The food is excellent, the service is a joy, and the seat is comfortable and lie-flat — it doesn’t get much better than that.

Dreaming about the beach in Hawaii? Check out our guide on the  best ways to fly to Hawaii with points and miles!

3. Delta Air Lines A321neo First Class

Delta’s first class on the A321neo may be the best “typical” domestic first class product in the U.S. right now . It helps a lot that the Airbus planes are among the newest in the Delta fleet, making the experience among the freshest. The first class cabin features 5 rows in a 2-2 configuration, and the seats are 21 inches wide and have 37 inches of pitch, which is slightly better than on its Airbus A220s (below). The headrests feature oversized wings and seat dividers, both improving the feeling of privacy.

However, where first class on the A321neo shines is arguably the accouterments.

It has a 13-inch seat-back screen (yes, a new plane with screens!), a universal power outlet, and a USB-A port. You can pair Bluetooth headsets to the inflight entertainment system that comes loaded with hundreds of movies. (Delta gives you wired earbuds if you don’t bring your own.) Wi-Fi is included.

Meals have gotten positive reviews and include dessert and a choice of any beverage, including beer, wine, and hard liquor.

The first class-only lavatory includes Grown Alchemist products.

Clearly, we’re excited about Delta’s apparent dedication to improving U.S. airlines’ poor reputation for domestic first class with this promising product.

4. Delta A220 First Class

Delta’s Airbus A220s also have nice first class seats, though they’re not as state-of-the-art as those found on the new A321neos.

Honestly, there’s not much you can expect from these seats because they’re simply larger seats that recline a bit more than the economy seats. However, what you  can  expect in first class here is 20.5 inches of width and 37 inches of pitch. You can’t complain about having more personal space.

The A220 is a newer aircraft for regional Delta flights, so the inflight entertainment system, seat technology, and in-flight monitor are top-notch. Most flyers rate the food as reasonably good, especially compared to the meals on other regional first class flights.

5. Alaska Airlines First Class

Alaska Airlines is an enigma. It’s not a legacy carrier, yet it’s the fifth-largest airline in the U.S. by passengers carried, seventh by number of destinations served, and eighth by fleet size.

And it operates first class cabins, but these consist of recliner seats in a 2-2 configuration.

The seats are spacious, boasting 21 inches of width and 36 to 41 inches of pitch . The inflight entertainment system is robust, and the service tends to be very warm. Furthermore, the food is good.

Overall, the seats are big and good enough for a short domestic hop, though they wouldn’t be our first choice for a long cross-country flight.

1. Hawaiian Airlines Leihōkū Suites Business Class on the Boeing 787-9

Starting April 15, 2024, Hawaiian Airlines will offer its new Leihōkū Suites, the new standard by which domestic business class will be measured.

The suites will first be seen on Hawaiian’s upcoming Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, which are scheduled to enter into regular commercial service very soon. The 34 suites are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, meaning every passenger has direct access to the aisle .

Each seat converts to a fully lie-flat bed and has an 18-inch inflight entertainment screen, wireless charging station, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, and a retractable privacy screen (for middle seats). It promises to be an upgrade from Hawaiian’s current 2-2-2 business class configuration, which doesn’t have IFE screens.

The only downside we see seems to be temporary: The planes won’t start off with Wi-Fi, but the airline is the midst of installing high-speed Starlink internet on some aircraft, and it’s safe to assume those would include Hawaiian’s new flagship planes.

2. JetBlue Mint Business Class

JetBlue has a reputation for being a low-cost carrier, but it has one of the best domestic business class seats in the U.S., JetBlue Mint .

If you know anything about JetBlue Mint, you’re probably familiar with the term “throne seats.” The image above describes what it is.

The business class seats alternate between 2-2 and 1-1 configurations. As you can probably imagine, the 1-1 seats are far superior to the 2-2 seats. In fact, they take up twice the amount of room, giving you lots of extra space and privacy. On 1 side of your chair, you have a ledge, and on the other, you have a side table. These are the throne seats, and they’re hugely spacious , hence their nickname.

The only issue with the throne seats is that the footwell is wedged between the 2 seats in front of you, which can constrict your legs. Nevertheless, the extra privacy is  probably worth it.

You receive an amenity kit from Hayward containing cool toiletries and a pen. One remarkable thing about JetBlue Mint is the great food and beverage service . The main dishes are tapas-style , where you pick from several small dishes to create a meal.

Throne seats are a generous 22 inches wide, offer 60 inches of pitch, and measure 80 inches in length when fully flat. The other Mint seats are 20.5 inches wide, offer 58 inches of pitch, and measure 80 inches long in bed mode, which is plenty adequate. The significant difference is that the throne seats have sliding doors , which can enclose your suite. This is awesome, and it makes the seats similar to premium international offerings such as Delta One Suites or even United Polaris business class .

Additionally, you receive a free Wi-Fi pass, and it’s actually decent. Crews are reputed to be among the most professional, friendly, and well-trained. Best of all, the cash cost of a ticket is reasonable.

The only disadvantages of JetBlue Mint are that not all seats are throne seats (though, as we’ve noted, the other Mint seats are still good) and that JetBlue provides a disappointing ground experience, especially compared to Flagship First Dining from American Airlines.

All in all, though, JetBlue Mint offers a very good domestic business class experience.

Hot Tip: Think that you have to stop flying business class once you have kids? Think again! Check out our list of pros and cons of flying in business class with a baby .

3. United Polaris Business Class

United Airlines offers its “real” Polaris class (i.e., planes that offer both the carrier’s newest Polaris seats combined with a true business class service offering) on transcontinental flights. Previously, it was reserved for select international routes from San Francisco (SFO) or Newark (EWR).

Specifically, United Airlines currently offers Polaris on these premium transcontinental routes:

• Newark (EWR) – Los Angeles (LAX)
• Newark (EWR) – San Francisco (SFO)

Hot Tip: Check out our guide to guide to United Polaris to learn more about this product.

United has opened Polaris lounges at a range of hub airports, but transcontinental business class flights do not qualify for access, which is a big drawback.

Currently, the flights featuring Polaris business class are on the Boeing 787-10, the largest and most technologically advanced Dreamliner variant.

Polaris business class is in a 1-2-1 configuration, so all the seats have direct aisle access . Furthermore, the seats are 100% lie-flat, 20.6 inches wide, offer 78 inches of pitch, and measure 78 inches long in bed mode. The footwell is quite deep and wide, so adjusting in your seat is easy.

Amenity kits are stocked by Cowshed, and bedding is Saks Fifth Avenue . You can also expect gel pillows, a perk unique to Polaris.

Additionally, and perhaps most importantly for some travelers, there are individual air nozzles, meaning you can control the air conditioning at your seat.

The inflight monitor is a 15-inch high-definition television with touchscreen capabilities. The Wi-Fi, though expensive, is generally pretty fast. You can’t stream content but should have no problem staying connected to the ground.

The low point of this experience is probably the service, and the inflight catering has been subpar for quite some time.

4. Delta One on the Airbus A330

Delta operates its best domestic business class product on high-profile routes, such as between Los Angeles (LAX) and Atlanta (ATL) and between Los Angeles (LAX) and New York (JFK) .

The best business class product that flies domestically is found on the Airbus A330. Delta One on this aircraft consists of reverse-herringbone seats in a 1-2-1 configuration . Seats lie fully flat and are 21 inches wide and 80 inches long — this is on par with international business class seats.

Delta’s food — while nothing special — is generally better than what you’d find on American Airlines or United . And the inflight products and bedding are usually of high quality.

For those who want a big, comfortable seat, Delta One on the A330 is probably one of the best domestic options.

5. American Airlines A321T Transcontinental Business Class

American Airlines offers a true first class product on certain domestic flights, but on the same aircraft — the Airbus A321T — the airline also offers a business class product, known as Flagship Business.

This B/E Aerospace Diamond seat is 19 inches wide, offers 58 inches of pitch, and measures 75 inches long when fully flat. The seating arrangement is 2-2, meaning window seats don’t have direct aisle access. In addition, the business class seats are narrower and smaller than the other products we’ve discussed so far.

The main drawback of this seat is the lack of direct aisle access for all seats — you may have to climb over your neighbor to use the lavatory, or they may have to climb over you.

If you want a lie-flat seat, great food, fast ViaSat Wi-Fi, and terrific inflight entertainment, American Airlines Flagship Business Class should satisfy you.

It’s safe to say the major U.S. airlines operate a hodgepodge of different aircraft, and you should do your research to make sure you’re getting what you think you signed up for.

But even with all the variations on so many different products, you should be better able to make an educated decision on which business or first class product to try on your next domestic or regional flight.

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Supersonic Plane Travel Is Closer Than You Thought

For many travelers, the words ‘supersonic flight’ conjure up images both futuristic and nostalgic.

Gone are the glory days of the Concorde , the iconic long-nosed jet that transported celebrities and assorted jet-setters across the Atlantic in just a few hours. Beloved for its short transit time— New York to London in just over three hours, going at about twice the speed of sound—the Concorde met its end because of a variety of complications. Firstly, the fact that the jets created a loud sonic boom (the roar that results when an aircraft breaks the sound barrier), and even more importantly, that they were expensive to operate, making it difficult for airlines to turn a profit. By 2003, Concorde was defunct.

But now, two aviation projects are working to overcome those concerns to make supersonic air travel a reality for passengers once more: a private company called Boom Technology and the second, a partnership between NASA and Lockheed Martin. Later this year, both programs will hit a major milestone when they launch test flights of their innovative aircraft for the first time.

Here’s what travelers should know about the supersonic test flights launching in the US in 2024.

A quest for a quiet boom

One major reason why supersonic planes are no longer a facet of modern air travel is the deafening boom the jets create as they cross the sound barrier. Due to the thunderous noise, Concorde was only allowed to fly faster than the speed of sound over water, a regulation still in place for supersonic flights today.

But NASA and Lockheed Martin are endeavoring to find a way to make crossing the sound barrier quieter. NASA’s mission, called Quesst, is to design a jet that creates a noise more like a “sonic thump,” than a roaring boom, according to a NASA release .

NASA and Lockheed just debuted that experimental jet to the public on January 12. Dubbed X-59, the jet is expected to fly 1.4 times faster than the speed of sound—or 925 miles per hour. The aircraft’s innovative design, unique shape, and other technologies are expected to help diminish its sonic boom.

The X-59 jet is expected to fly 1.4 times faster than the speed of sound—or 925 miles per hour.

With the design now complete, the aircraft will undergo a series of ground tests before its first flight. “The aircraft is set to take off for the first time later this year, followed by its first quiet supersonic flight,” NASA says. The first test flights will take place in California , both at Lockheed’s and NASA’s research centers. “Once NASA completes flight tests, the agency will fly the aircraft over several to-be-selected cities across the US, collecting input about the sound the X-59 generates and how people perceive it,” the agency’s release says.

NASA will share its data with regulators and the wider air travel industry. “By demonstrating the possibility of quiet commercial supersonic travel over land, we seek to open new commercial markets for US companies and benefit travelers around the world,” Bob Pearce, associate administrator for aeronautics research at NASA Headquarters in Washington, says in the release.

A supersonic jet with a business-class feel

NASA isn't the only major player working to bring supersonic flight back from the past and into the future of air travel . Boom Supersonic, a private company based in Colorado, aims to bring commercial supersonic flights back to US airlines by 2029. When completed, its passenger aircraft, Overture, is expected to fly at speeds up to Mach 1.7, which is about 1,300 miles per hour—or twice as fast as today’s passenger planes .

At those speeds, passengers can travel from New York to Rome in just five hours (instead of eight), Honolulu to Tokyo in four hours (instead of more than eight), and Zurich to Philadelphia in less than five hours (compared to nine).

Boom’s first test aircraft, called XB-1, is set to take its first test flight in early 2024 at the Mojave Air and Space Port in California. XB-1 is a supersonic demonstrator jet, used to prove Boom’s ability to cross the sound barrier, and not an aircraft that will carry passengers. (Overture, which is designed to carry passengers, isn’t expected to be tested until 2026.)

“In the last 12 months, XB-1 has received its airworthiness certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, completed an extensive Flight Readiness Review (FRR), and successfully executed a series of integrated ground and taxi tests,” Boom says on its website . So far, the XB-1 has reach speeds of up to 108 miles per hour during taxi tests on the ground. Before the jet can fly, it will need to complete a few more ground tests, including high-speed taxis.

The company says that the Overture aircraft is being designed to meet today’s takeoff and landing noise levels, and will only cross the sound barrier over water. Boom could also possibly leverage NASA’s quiet boom technology in the future, according to a company spokesperson. “When flying over land, Overture can fly significantly faster than subsonic commercial jets—about Mach 0.94, without breaking the sound barrier,” says the Boom spokesperson. “This is about 20% faster than subsonic flight.”

Boom’s first test aircraft, called XB-1, is set to take its first test flight in early 2024 at the Mojave Air and Space Port in California.

Learnings from XB-1’s test flights will be applied to the Overture jet that will carry passengers past the sound barrier. US airlines have already begun placing orders for Boom’s supersonic aircraft, in anticipation of Concorde-like travel becoming mainstream once again.

United Airlines was the first carrier to purchase supersonic planes from Boom, ordering 15 of the Overture jets, set to be delivered in 2029, with an option to buy an additional 35. “Among the many future potential routes for United are Newark to London in just three and a half hours, Newark to Frankfurt in four hours and San Francisco to Tokyo in just six hours,” United said when it announced the purchase.

American Airlines , which ordered up to 20 of the aircraft with an option to buy an additional 40, said its potential supersonic routes could include “ Miami to London in just under five hours and Los Angeles to Honolulu in three hours are among the many possibilities.”

Of course, fares will be left up to the airlines to set; however, Boom CEO Blake Scholl has said that the planes are designed to compete with current international business-class ticket prices, starting around $5,000.

Inside, the planes will have a more exclusive atmosphere compared to current planes flying international routes, carrying just 64 to 80 passengers. Boom is designing its supersonic plane cabin to compete with current airlines’ top business-class products . Some of the cabin features could include large personal windows, direct aisle access, dedicated underseat storage , and a first-class, lie-flat experience .

How will supersonic air travel impact travelers?

The modern revival of supersonic air travel has the potential to create a more sustainable way to fly. Not only could the sonic booms be quieter (thus reducing the negative effects aircraft noise can have on wildlife), but the plane’s carbon footprints could also be drastically reduced. Boom’s planes will be able to run entirely on sustainable aviation fuel , meaning the flights could emit a net-zero carbon output.

While many of us may never get to experience the golden age of flying , supersonic jets could usher in a new era of luxe flying—for when it comes to travel, time truly is our most precious commodity. For many customers “Concorde delivered efficiency, effectiveness, comfort, and the ability to do in two days what would otherwise take four,” Mike Bannister, former chief Concorde pilot for British Airways said in a Boom release in 2020. Supersonic flight was especially appealing to business travelers , who had the ability to make a day trip out of a long-haul transatlantic trip. “They could travel from London to New York and back in a single day and still have time to do business upon final landing," he said.

The short travel times can also help significantly reduce the effects of jet lag , according to former Concorde passengers and pilots. “In crossing the Atlantic from London to New York in three hours and twenty minutes, we endured no jet lag, arrived on time, earlier than we left, and with very happy customers,” Bannister said. (This becomes especially true if you can take a day trip across time zones and retire for the night in your own bed.)

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The best business class airlines: What you should fly

Get ready to fly in style.

For frequent travelers, flying business class offers a suite of perks, including enhanced comfort with lie-flat seats, gourmet dining options, and access to exclusive lounges, ensuring a relaxing journey from start to finish. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning a special vacation, knowing which airlines excel in the business class department can help ensure your trip is a great one. Skytrax has recently unveiled its rankings for the world’s best business class airlines, evaluating various categories from overall excellence to specific aspects like catering and lounges. Here are the top picks for the best business class airlines, as recognized by Skytrax.  

• Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has secured the top spot on Skytrax’s list of the best business class airlines. A standout feature is the Qsuite, available on select routes, which is the airline’s first-ever business class suite with doors. Each suite boasts ambient mood lighting, fully lie-flat beds, and generous storage space, available in four different sizes to suit varying needs. Additionally, Skytrax awarded Qatar Airways the title of ‘Best Business Class Lounge in the Middle East,” located at Hamad International Airport (DOH).

• Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines secured the number two spot in Skytrax’s overall rankings and was also awarded the ‘Best Business Class Lounge in Asia’ at Changi Airport (SIN). On most flights, business class passengers enjoy fully flat beds and large televisions for a comfortable journey. The airline’s ‘Book the Cook’ service allows passengers to reserve their main course up to 24 hours in advance, featuring creations by notable chefs from the International Culinary Panel. Onboard dining offers a restaurant-style experience with full table service and wines carefully selected to complement the food and altitude. 

• ANA All Nippon Airways

Passengers flying on ANA All Nippon Airways can enjoy a premium business class experience with priority baggage drop, fast-track security, and priority boarding. Onboard, every seat has direct aisle access, ample storage with personal closets, and doors for enhanced privacy. If you’re flying on a B777-300ER, you can enjoy “The Room,” featuring extra-wide seats arranged in alternating forward and rear-facing rows for unparalleled privacy and comfort in business class. 

With Emirates business class, your luxury experience begins before you even arrive at the airport with a complimentary chauffeur drive service for distances up to 50 miles. Onboard the A380 aircraft, enjoy the exclusive onboard lounge, where you can socialize with fellow passengers and sip on a cold drink. Indulge in gourmet cuisine served on Royal Doulton fine bone china, with cutlery crafted by Robert Welch. You can plan ahead and order your main courses as early as 14 days and up to 24 hours before your flight. 

• Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Pacific Airways offers a serene and luxurious experience in their business class, highlighted by the Aria Suite. In these suites, you can enjoy a 24-inch 4K widescreen TV with Bluetooth audio connectivity for personalized entertainment. The large lie-flat beds extend fully for a restful sleep, complemented by customizable personal lighting from any seat position. Business class passengers also benefit from access to Cathay Pacific’s premium Business lounges in key locations such as Shanghai, Bangkok, London, and Vancouver, enhancing the journey with exclusive amenities and comfort before departure.

• Hainan Airlines

Ranked number six overall, Hainan Airlines excels in business class comfort and amenities. This airline was also awarded the ‘Best Business Class Lounge in China’ at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) as well as the ‘Best Business Class Airline Comfort Amenities.’ When boarding your Hainan Airlines flight, you will receive an amenity kit with essentials like floss, a hairbrush, socks, an eye mask, and lotion. Additionally, passengers are provided with pajamas and slippers for added relaxation on board. The airline also offers a turndown service, where a flight attendant will lie your seat down and make your bed for you.

Air France’s business class, ranked number one in Europe by Skytrax, offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience. On long-haul flights, passengers enjoy full-flat beds with direct aisle access, creating a private enclave featuring a desk, dining table, and bed. Benefits include fast-tracked baggage check-in, priority boarding, and expedited baggage delivery upon arrival. Business class passengers can also gain access to Air France’s exclusive Business lounges worldwide.

• Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines’ business class, Delta One®, stands as the best in North America according to Skytrax. Passengers experience spacious lie-flat seats with direct aisle access and enjoy complimentary access to Delta Sky Club lounges and Delta One Lounges, along with Sky Priority services. Delta also offers flexibility with the ability to change or cancel tickets without fees on flights from the United States, Canada, and Europe. Business class amenities include 180-degree flat-bed seats, oversized duvets, lumbar pillows, full-height doors, privacy dividers, hot towel service, and amenity kits. 

EVA Air’s business class, known as Premium Laurel Class, offers a comfortable 2-2-2 seating arrangement with spacious hard shell seats that recline almost fully flat without compromising space for adjacent passengers. Passengers enjoy an onboard entertainment system with interactive games, noise-canceling headphones, and large 15.4-inch personal screens with remote controls. Meals are served on fine china and include appetizers, salads, desserts, and a choice of main courses, ensuring a gourmet dining experience in the sky.

• Turkish Airlines

Coming in at number ten on the list, Turkish Airlines also received the title of the ‘Best Business Class Onboard Catering.’ Turkish Airlines offers seasonal menus curated by expert flying chefs who prepare and serve meals directly to passengers on select flights. Business class seats are lie-flat with touchpad controls, adjustable privacy screens, personal reading lamps, and a massage feature for added comfort. Turkish Airlines also provides carefully curated travel sets tailored to passengers’ needs.

The best business class airlines

Here’s the full list of 2024’s best business class airlines.

• Virgin Atlantic
• Etihad Airways
• Japan Airlines
• British Airways
• United Airlines
• Qantas Airways
• STARLUX Airlines

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• Food & Drink

If you haven’t been paying close attention to the American cocktail landscape, you might not realize that it hasn’t always been like this. The cocktail renaissance of the early aughts (between 2003 and 2017) made bartending more of an art form as opposed to simply a job.

While it made the job appealing for creative, pioneering mixologists, it also brought back many classic cocktails that had seemingly been lost to time. While drinks like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Boulevardier, and daiquiri have always been around, they (and many other drinks) have had a resurgence in popularity in the last few decades.

What if we told you that you could enjoy the benefits of private air travel without the hefty price tag? Welcome to the world of JSX, a game-changer in the aviation industry that offers a semi-private flying experience. This innovative air carrier bridges the gap between commercial and private travel, providing passengers with the luxury and convenience of private jets at a fraction of the cost. Let’s dive into the details of JSX, its impact on major commercial airlines, and whether this unique travel option is truly worth considering. JSX: the details

JSX, also known as JetSuite X, Inc., is an American air carrier operating in the United States and Mexico. Describing itself as a “hop-on jet service,” JSX offers convenience that rivals traditional commercial flights. Operating as a public charter, JSX doesn’t directly operate aircraft but instead charters 30-seat Embraer regional jets, which are managed by a subsidiary. These jets are customized with 30 business-class seats, providing extra legroom, in-row power, and a streamlined, overhead-bin-free design.

Ever felt the panic surge as you approach the airport check-in, wondering if your bulging carry-on will survive the size test? This guide cuts to the chase! Learn carry-on size rules, weight limits, and what to pack in your carry-on luggage. What is carry-on luggage?

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• Types of Commercial Airlines: Everything You Need to Know

This article covers all you need to know about the different types of commercial airlines. From logistics and cargo services to international shipping options and tips for air travel, this guide is perfect for anyone interested in air transportation and shipping.

Welcome to the world of commercial airlines! As air travel continues to be a popular and convenient mode of transportation, it's important to understand the different types of commercial airlines available to us. From budget-friendly carriers to luxury options, each airline has its own unique characteristics and offerings. Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning your first trip, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about the various types of commercial airlines. So buckle up and get ready for an informative journey through the world of air transportation. Welcome to our guide on the various types of commercial airlines.

Whether you are looking to transport goods or travel by air, this article has got you covered. We will discuss everything from logistics and cargo services to international shipping options and tips for air travel. Plus, stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates on airports and their operations. First, we will cover the different types of commercial airlines available. This includes passenger airlines , cargo airlines , charter airlines , and low-cost carriers .

Each type has its own unique features and services that cater to different needs. For example, passenger airlines focus on transporting people while cargo airlines specialize in shipping goods. Charter airlines offer customized flights for specific groups or events, and low-cost carriers provide affordable air travel options for budget-conscious travelers. It's important to understand the differences between these types of airlines to choose the one that best suits your needs. Next, we will dive into logistics and cargo services offered by commercial airlines.

This includes air freight shipping , which is a fast and efficient way to transport goods across the globe. We will also discuss the process of shipping cargo via air and the various regulations that must be followed. Additionally, we will cover the benefits of using commercial airlines for logistics and cargo services, such as faster delivery times and global reach. If you're interested in international shipping options, we will provide an overview of how commercial airlines facilitate this process. This includes discussing the routes and destinations offered by different airlines, as well as the necessary paperwork and documentation required for international shipping.

We will also touch on the importance of adhering to customs and border control regulations when shipping goods internationally. If you're planning to travel by air, we have you covered with our tips for air travel. This section will cover everything from booking your flight and packing tips to navigating the airport and dealing with potential delays or cancellations. We will also provide insights on how to make the most of your in-flight experience and arrive at your destination feeling relaxed and prepared. Finally, we will keep you updated on the latest news and updates in the world of commercial airlines. This includes information on new airport openings, changes in airline policies and procedures, and any other relevant updates that may impact your air travel experience. To summarize, this article has covered everything you need to know about types of commercial airlines.

Low-Cost Carriers

Charter airlines.

Instead, they work with their clients to create personalized flight plans that meet their specific requirements. One of the main advantages of charter airlines is the ability to customize the flight experience. This can include everything from the type of aircraft used to the departure and arrival times. Some charter airlines also offer amenities such as in-flight catering and personalized entertainment options. This level of customization allows passengers to have a more comfortable and tailored flying experience. Charter airlines are also often used for cargo transportation.

Passenger Airlines

Cargo airlines.

These airlines specialize in shipping various types of cargo, including perishable goods, oversized items, and hazardous materials. They provide a fast and efficient way of transporting goods across long distances. One of the main advantages of using cargo airlines is their ability to ship goods quickly. With their extensive network of routes and frequent flights, they can deliver goods to their destination in a timely manner. This makes them a popular choice for businesses that need to transport time-sensitive items. Cargo airlines also offer a wide range of services to suit different types of cargo.

They have specialized equipment and handling procedures to ensure that goods are transported safely and securely. This includes temperature-controlled storage for perishable items, as well as specialized packaging and handling for fragile or hazardous materials. Moreover, cargo airlines have extensive experience in navigating international shipping regulations and customs procedures. This makes them a reliable option for businesses looking to transport goods across borders. In recent years, cargo airlines have also implemented advanced tracking systems, allowing businesses to monitor the location and status of their shipments in real-time. This provides greater visibility and control over the shipping process. If you are considering using a cargo airline for shipping goods, it is important to research and compare different options to find the one that best fits your needs.

Factors such as pricing, routes, and services offered should be taken into consideration. In conclusion, commercial airlines play a crucial role in both air transportation and shipping. With various types of airlines and services available, it's important to understand your options to choose the best fit for your needs. Whether you're looking to transport goods or travel by air, we hope this guide has provided valuable insights and information.

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• The Pros and Cons of Air Transport and Shipping
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• A Comprehensive Look at Types of Freight Shipping
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Three-room “suites in the sky” and unlimited flight memberships: these are the top air travel trends to know about

In an age of competitive flight prices and a seemingly unlimited choice of destinations, the modern traveller has a never-ending selection of holiday options. As a result, airports and airlines need to keep on top of their game to secure a roster of return customers. The experience starts as soon as jet-setters pass through the revolving doors of the airports, where exclusive lounges await those eager to avoid the chaotic crowds of the main terminals. These peaceful havens have come a long way over the years, as lounges look to outdo each other and ensure the best customer experience for their loyal customers. From here, it’s onto the plane, and whichever way travellers turn after embarking, invaluable improvements await them as they settle into their seats – whether its  premium economy  or first class suites. So, how are airports and airlines changing how we travel in 2024? And what can we expect from our adventures in the months and years ahead? From Michelin-star -worthy meals at high altitudes to the most exciting premium cabin upgrades, here’s what to expect from the journey ahead.

Before an adventure comes the agonising decision of exactly where to go. Of course, numerous airlines operate well-trodden routes for good reason, and UK travellers will never be short of flight options to our favourite Greek islands , Italian cities and long-haul idylls favoured by honeymooners and love birds. However, new territory opens up each season as airlines seek to expand their reach and cash in on intrepid travellers. Several routes are returning following the Covid pandemic.

Wizz Air's' All You Can Fly' is one of the most exciting new initiatives for UK-based short-haul travellers. In August 2024, the “Most Sustainable Low-Cost Airline” announced the £534-a-year membership option, allowing travellers to hop on last-minute flights, with options displayed 72 hours before departure. While it’s not designed with travellers who require lots of planning in mind, it’s a game changer for digital nomads and hodophiles prepared to hop into seats that would otherwise go empty. Other short-haul developments include Easyjet’s new routes connecting Southend and Tenerife, plus a year-round connection to Menorca.

British Airways ’ new codeshare partnership with Bangkok Airways is another exciting development for long-haul travellers. A direct route from London Gatwick to Bangkok returns in October 2024, just in time for winter sun escapes. Thanks to the new partnership with the Thai airline, five new destinations across Thailand and Cambodia have opened up, allowing BA customers to hop seamlessly into popular destinations, including Phuket , Koh Samui, and Siem Reap.

Airport lounges

Airport lounges are peaceful havens for travellers eager to escape the hustle and bustle of the airport terminal before a flight. To ensure value for money (and time), lounges worldwide continue to up their game to tempt return fliers. In August 2024, Singapore Airlines reopened the doors to the SilverKris Lounge at London Heathrow Airport Terminal 2 following a six-month-long refurbishment. The modernised space now offers more seating space and comfort, spanning a sprawling 10,689 square feet across exclusive first- and business-class areas. Travellers can catch up on work in individual productivity pods, settle into wingback chairs, and use 75-inch widescreen TV screens and complimentary wifi. The first-class area offers an a la-carte menu of customer favourites from Asian and Western cuisines, plus flutes of sparkling Laurent Perrier champagne and a curated selection of wines.

Long-haul travellers looking for respite between flight legs are now welcome into Hong Kong International Airport’s Kyra Lounge, decked with plush seating areas and workstations. Meanwhile, the British Airways Lagos lounge is the latest in a series of global lounge renovations from the UK’s flag carrier, ahead of a new-look opening in Miami in 2025.

Comfort in-flight

While the most indulgent in-flight experience is reserved for business- and first-class fliers, airlines are increasingly updating their economy offerings. Among them is Turkish Airlines, which is working to provide all passengers with “free, unlimited, uninterrupted and fast connectivity service” by 2025. The existing fleet is being fitted with the latest in-flight connectivity (IFC) technologies, enabling travellers to stay in touch with everything happening on the ground while gliding through the skies. Meanwhile, Emirates recently announced plans to introduce newly retrofitted Boeing 777s to Zurich and Riyadh flight routes. The refreshed cabins offer more of Emirates’ premium economy seats – great news for travellers wanting more comfort without the business-class price tag.

Premium classes

Some of the most exciting developments in the industry right now come from new and improved premium classes. Understandably, they ignite lots of excitement among aviation enthusiasts – even if prices mean just a select handful of luxury travellers will ever experience them.

In July 2023, Turkish Airlines unveiled a new luxurious crystal business class suite at the Farnborough International Airshow. It’s the first premium seat from Turkey ’s flag carrier to feature an adjustable suite door and privacy panel for enhanced in-flight privacy. The improved seats feature a generous 23-inch seat width boasting increased footwell space with direct aisle access for all fliers. These are set to be installed on Airbus A350s and then retrofitted onto Boeing 777s – aircraft used for transcontinental flight routes.

Etihad Airways ’ ‘The Residence’ is undoubtedly one of the most exquisite commercial airline offerings. As of April 2024, the airline’s A380 double-decker service route connects the Middle East and New York twice daily, with the three-room “suite in the sky” available for the plushest passengers. Journeys begin with an Etihad Chauffeur service in Abu Dhabi before fliers are transported to their destination in what can only be described as a swanky apartment, complete with a private bedroom, a bathroom fitted with a shower, and a lounge space where travellers can enjoy dishes from the a la carte menu alongside some of the best wines in the sky. Interested? Prepare to stump up in excess of £18,000 for a return journey…

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30 foreign airlines are still flying to russia.

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Russia's Boeing 757 Rival Tu-214 Set For Delivery Next Year But Only With 3 Person Cockpit

Analysis: how the boeing 777x will fit into its customers' fleets, less than 550 miles: a closer look at singapore airlines' 5 shortest routes.

With airspace bans in place and geopolitical disruption ongoing, it would be easy to think Russia was somewhat cut off from the rest of the world. But that’s not entirely the case. Although numerous foreign airlines have pulled out of services to Russian cities, there are still almost 3,500 flights per month arriving from international carriers.

In all, 30 overseas airlines still fly into Russia, offering 620,000 seats across almost 940 million available seat miles. We take a look at the biggest and most prolific international airlines still flying to Russia.

Turkish Airlines flies the most

Of the 30 non-Russian airlines still flying into the country, the carrier with the most flights is Turkish Airlines . In June, the airline is scheduled as flying a total of 1,395 services to the country, offering over a quarter of a million sets and 373 million seat miles to Russians. Its top destinations include Moscow-Vnukovo (VKO) at 676 flights, St Petersburg (LED) with 227 flights, and Moscow Domodedovo with 209.

Also flying significant capacity into Russia, although around a third of what Turkish is flying, are Uzbekistan Airways (420 flights) and Belavia (392). Uzbekistan Airways offers almost double the seats, however, with a capacity of almost 83,000 compared to Belavia’s 48,000. This is down to its strong use of widebody Dreamliners and Boeing 767s alongside its Boeing 757 and A320 family aircraft. Belavia flies the 737 family and E-Jets.

Also operating over 100 flights in June were the UAE’s flydubai , Kyrgyzstan’s Avia Traffic Company, Turkey’s Pegasus, and Tajikistan’s Somon Air.

The full list of 30 foreign airlines still flying to Russia in June is below:

Turkey and the UAE offer the most flight options

Alongside Turkish Airlines, low-cost Pegasus further bolsters connectivity to Russia from the country. In all, this makes up a total of 1,541 one-way flights between Turkey and Russia, with almost 300,000 seats this June.

Also conspicuous in its dedication to Russian connectivity is the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Four airlines continue to fly to Russia from the Gulf State – flydubai, Emirates , Etihad and Air Arabia. Although flydubai offers the most, Emirates still serves the country with 84 flights per month, while Air Arabia and Etihad both fly around 30.

Some might say these airlines should reconsider their operations, given the public image of flying into Russia right now. Speaking to Simple Flying on the sidelines of the IATA AGM this week, Sir Tim Clark, president of Emirates, defended his position, saying,

“As I've said, time and time again, we are operating [to Russia] because we haven’t been told not to operate … as long as the government that controls us says it's okay, then we will continue to do so.”

All four airlines intend to continue flying to Russia for the rest of the summer season. Air Arabia’s schedules currently forecast doubling flight capacity by September, while the other three are planning to maintain similar levels of operations.

One Middle Eastern airline that has pulled out of Russia, however, is European low-cost Wizz Air’s UAE subsidiary. Wizz Air Abu Dhabi suspended flights to Russia after the invasion of Ukraine in February along with its parent company. The group further announced a full suspension of flights to Russia for the rest of the summer .

• Aviation News

5 Best Vacuum Sealers, Tested and Reviewed

Store leftovers for an extended time with these at-home packaging devices.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Nesco vs-12 deluxe vacuum sealer.

Most Versatile

Foodsaver vs3150 vacuum sealer & food preservation system.

Best for Small Spaces

Anova culinary precision vacuum sealer.

If you shop in bulk or like to hunt or cook sous vide , you'll likely benefit from a home vacuum sealer. They work by removing air from a plastic bag filled with food and then sealing it with heat, keeping your food fresher for longer by creating an environment that makes it very hard for some bacteria to thrive. And while food dehydrators remove moisture from food to preserve it, t he tightly sealed bag helps prevent moisture loss (or moisture gain, if you want to keep crispy foods crispy!) and freezer burn.

There are two main types of home vacuum sealers: handheld and countertop, and both can help all kinds of food last longer (except for foods like soft cheeses, raw mushrooms and fresh garlic that contain anaerobic bacteria, which loves oxygen-free zones).

The pros in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab test all kinds of products that can help you keep your food fresh for longer, from the best food storage containers to top reusable produce bags . And they tested several of the vacuum sealers here by sealing and storing delicate foods like berries and avocados and meats like hamburger and chicken. Read on for more information on how we test vacuum sealers.

Nesco's highly efficient machine is fully loaded: It has powerful suction, various pressure settings and an accessory port for things like jar attachments. It also has a built-in bag cutter and roll storage compartment, and it comes with two sizes of bags. The large handle makes it easy to use and the control panel is clearly labeled.

In our tests, it successfully sealed a chicken breast marinated in Italian dressing, a task some other models struggled with (or failed at). We also liked the unique double-seal function, which provides extra peace of mind for longer storage or sous vide cooking. But take note: The vacuum time was the longest in our test.

FoodSaver VS3150 Vacuum Sealer & Food Preservation System

This 2-in-1 vacuum sealer from FoodSaver vacuum seals moist and dry foods using pre-cut bags or a roll that stores within the unit; it also features a built-in handheld adaptor that can be used with resealable bags and additional attachments, like bottle-stoppers and reusable containers.

Our experts found it was relatively easy to use, though positioning the bags for proper sealing took some getting used to, and you must flip down a latch before using, which is simple but unusual. Vacuum-sealed burger patties lasted for weeks in the freezer with no signs of freezer burn, and apple slices retained their just-cut color in the fridge.

READ OUR FULL R EVIEW : FoodSaver Multi-Use Vacuum Sealing System & Preserve Containers

We were very impressed by this sleek option from Anova, the brand behind one of our top picks for the best sous vide machine . It's a great option for anyone new to vacuum sealing or sous vide because it performs well and has just three easy-to-understand buttons. It has a satisfying click when it's properly closed and ready to seal.

It does lack on-board storage for a roll of bags as well as a bag cutter (it comes with pre-sealed bags), but that's what makes the unit so compact, which is ideal for small kitchens, apartment life, dorms or just less-frequent use, since it's easier to store. It also knocked out all of our tests with top scores, especially the avocado test, which shows its ability to create a quality seal on an irregularly shaped food.

FoodSaver Multi-Use Handheld Vacuum Sealer

Despite being extremely compact — it fits nicely in the palm of your hand and is very lightweight — this handheld vacuum sealer was effective in our tests. The burger patty we sealed showed no signs of freezer burn — but note that the bags are not recommended for freezer use, as they might open up — and it was fairly gentle when sealing blackberries. But despite the Marinate setting (the only other setting is Vaccum), the marinade on our chicken breast clogged the device and prevented it from sealing.

Though it's designed to work with FoodSaver bags, which is somewhat limiting (they come in quart and gallon sizes) the bags are meant to be reused, and this device also works with FoodSaver containers . If you are looking for a vacuum sealer with multiple settings and lots of versatility, this isn't the best pick, but it's a great choice if you need a quick and easy way to enhance basic sealing.

Weston Brands Vacuum Sealer with Roll Cutter

Though bulkier and less attractive than other models, this machine is about as close to commercial-grade as you can get for sealing large quantities of meat . It's a real workhorse with a 680-watt, fan-cooled motor that prevents overheating even during heavy use. But thanks to an intuitive control panel with one-touch operation, it's simple enough for novices to use. Though we have not tested this model in the Lab, we like that it can even handle 11-inch-wide bags for large hunks of meat — ideal if you like to sous vide brisket or pork butt.

For a more home cook–friendly model, we tested the Weston Compact Vacuum Sealer . It's affordable and it did a fair job in our tests (though there was some gapping around the avocado and a little less sealing around the buger patty). It has high and low vacuum settings as well as an extended seal setting. Though it was the loudest in our test — and requires you to press it closed during operation — it was overall a moderate noise level and was easy to use.

How we test the best food vacuum sealers

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing products for over a century. To evaluate food vacuum sealers, we assess functionality — ease of use, how intuitive the settings are, how loud the machine is, how long it takes to seal food — and any additional unique features like built-in bag cutters and holders.

For each model, we sealed one 1/4-lb hamburger patty and stored it in the freezer for a month, checking regularly for signs of freezer burn. We also sealed a chicken breast marinated in bottled Italian dressing to see whether the sealer could handle wet foods and how the bags handled leaks.

We sealed one half of an avocado in a vacuum-sealed bag and the other half in a zip-top bag with the air pushed out and stashed them in a crisper drawer for 3 weeks to compare browning rates. We also sealed blackberries to assess the machine's ability to seal delicate foods.

What to look for when shopping for the best food vacuum sealer

The best vacuum sealers are slim and can seal both dry foods and liquids, as well as pulse and seal. But it's worth considering the following factors when looking to buy:

✔️ Handheld vs. countertop: If you lack space or tend to move around a lot, you'll likely prefer the maneuverability of a handheld machine, but if you rely on your food vacuum sealer often, the superior performance and durability of a countertop model may suit you better. Here's the difference:

• Handheld models typically use special zip-top bags that have a small port for air removal, ideal for small jobs and meal prep. They're less effective at keeping air out and you will be limited to the bag sizes offered for that device.
• Countertop models are larger and can generally use both pre-cut and cut-to-size bags. They're more versatile and provide longer-lasting results since there's no port, which could allow air to escape or enter. Most can also re-seal bags, like potato chips and cereal bags.

✔️ Functions: Before buying a vacuum sealer, think about your needs. Do you need something straightforward and intuitive for simple tasks, like freezing occasional cuts of meat or leftovers? If so, a handheld model might be a good choice. Do you need a model that's also designed for sous vide? If so, make sure the bags will stand up to high heat and consider a model that offers double sealing. If you plan to marinate or store liquid items, choose a machine with a "moist" or "wet" setting (and generally use the longest bag you can find or create a longer bag from the roll to help the machine seal wet foods more easily). If you often store delicate items, look for a "gentle" setting or the ability to select a lower vacuum level.

✔️ Type of bags: If you need different-sized bags for different tasks, consider buying rolls instead of pre-cut bags, since you can size these bags to fit your needs. And if you plan to sous vide, make sure you get bags that are safe for use in high heat. Just remember: Not all vacuum sealer bags are compatible with all machines, so double-check the model's specifications first. Be aware that handheld models might require brand-specific bags rather than cut-to-fit bags.

What do you use a vacuum sealer for?

Vacuum sealers are great for proteins (chicken parts, pork chops, sausages, etc.) and for dry goods you often see sold in bulk: nuts, seeds, hard cheeses, coffee, dried fruit and grains.

Some machines can also vacuum and seal delicate foods like crackers, cereals and cookies, but you'll need to find suction levels or delicate settings that work for your needs. Fragile foods like berries or flaky pastries generally cannot withstand the suction. Some machines work well with liquids, while others do not, but you can certainly use any of them to store sauces and liquids that are already frozen in individual portions.

But take note: There are some foods that you should not vacuum seal because they are prone to bacterial growth, such as hot foods, soft cheeses and raw garlic, onions and mushrooms.

Is a vacuum sealer worth it?

Our answer is a qualified yes. If you buy in bulk, freeze small portions for meal prep or from a hunt, vacuum sealing is worth it. It helps prevent most food from going stale as quickly as it would in a non-airtight container and it also helps prevent freezer burn, which affects taste and texture.

"I really like vacuum sealing for keeping food fresher in the freezer," says Kitchen Appliances Lab Director Nicole Papantoniou . "I tend to vacuum seal individual portions so I can defrost them quickly."

Vacuum sealers are also helpful for sous vide cooking. It ensures a tight seal to prevent any liquid from entering the bag.

Are all vacuum sealers the same?

All vacuum sealers are not the same, but they mostly differ in type. For most home cooks, a handheld or countertop vacuum sealer (like most of our picks) will get the job done.

There are also chamber vacuum sealers , which are primarily found in restaurants and are typically bigger, heavier and work faster than household versions. Chamber vacuum sealers work by putting a bag of food inside the chamber and closing the lid to seal the bags. They can handle multiple bags at once and are also good for larger foods.

Since most home models provide similar results and features, it's best to look for the one that fits best in your kitchen, has the settings that you need (like moist, marinate or dry) and includes vacuum sealer bags.

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Brigitt Earley is a freelance writer and editor with nearly 15 years of experience at lifestyle publications like Real Simple , Oprah Daily and Apartment Therapy. She specializes in writing product review content in a wide range of coverage areas, including home, health and food.

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Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.

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Best Overall Travel Insurance

Best travel insurance runner-up, best travel insurance for cruises, best travel insurance for reputation, best travel insurance for pre-existing conditions, best travel insurance for digital nomads, best travel insurance for affordability, best travel insurance for road trips, best for adventure traveling, get travel insurance quotes, how we reviewed the best travel insurance companies, ultimate guide to choosing the best travel insurance.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate travel insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this guide to the best travel insurance, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Best Travel Insurance Companies of 2024

• Best Overall: Nationwide Travel Insurance
• Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Cruises: Travel Guard
• Best Reputation:  C&F Travel Insured
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:   Tin Leg Travel Insurance
• Best for Digital Nomads:   WorldTrips Travel Insurance
• Best Low-Cost Option:   Trawick International Travel Insurance
• Best for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance
• Best for Adventure Sports :  World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best Travel Insurance Companies

The best travel insurance companies offer comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of people and needs. For this guide, we looked at coverage options, customizability, and the best companies for specific situations, such as pre-existing conditions.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best travel insurance companies in 2024. 

Nationwide Travel Insurance

Nationwide is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Read our Nationwide travel insurance review .

AXA Assistance USA

AXA offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

Read our AXA Assistance USA travel insurance review .

Travel Guard

AIG is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

Read our AIG Travel Guard travel insurance review .

C&F Travel Insured

While every travel insurance company has negative reviews about its claims process, C&F Travel Insured 's claims process has a consistent stream of positive reviews. One customer wrote that C&F processed a claim within 48 hours. Additionally, C&F regularly responds to customer reviews within one business week, making reviews a consistent way to reach the company.

Additionally, in C&F's fine print, it mentions that any claims that take more than 30 days to pay out will begin to accrue interest at 9% APY.

C&F's reputation isn't the only thing to speak highly of. It offers an array of add-ons uncommon in the travel insurance industry, such as Interruption for Any Reason insurance and CFAR coverage for annual plans. C&F also offers discounts for children on its Protector Edge plan and free coverage on its Protector plan.  

Read our C&F Travel Insured review . 

Tin Leg Travel Insurance

Tin Leg is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Seven of Tin Leg's eight travel plans include coverage for pre-existing conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 15 days of your initial trip payment.

Thanks to coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Read our Tin Leg travel insurance review .

WorldTrips Travel Insurance

WorldTrips has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

Read our WorldTrips travel insurance review .

Trawick International Travel Insurance

Trawick offers low premiums across its five plans, most of which offer coverage for pre-existing conditions. You'll find robust medical travel insurance that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company also offers high medical evacuation coverage limits, up to $1,000,000.

Read our Trawick travel insurance review .

Travelex Travel Insurance

Travelex offers three plans:

• Travel Basic
• Travel Select
• Travel America

The Travelex America plan is meant for trips limited to the U.S., but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the U.S. for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review .

World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads distinguishes itself from others by covering over 300 sports and activities, from skydiving to golf. Additionally, its one of the few travel insurance companies that allow you to purchase after departing for your destination. However, you'll have a 72-hour waiting period before coverage kicks in.

That said, World Nomads doesn't have the highest coverage limits compared to its competitors on this list, travel medical insurance capping out at $100,000. It also isn't the most flexible provider, only providing two plans to choose from with no options for pre-existing condition coverage. Yet, World Nomads still stands out for its sports coverage and post-departure coverage.

Read our World Nomads travel insurance review .

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about how much emergency medical care while traveling will cost, even in the most remote corners of the globe. This coverage will often come in tandem with emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short. You may also look for cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason options, which will reimburse you for a percentage of your nonrefundable fees, but expands the covered reasons you can cancel a trip. You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance companies here.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away. Also, check websites that field customer reviews like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and InsureMyTrip , to see how well a company responds to customer requests.

Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

For example, to get coverage for a canceled trip due to work, many travel insurance companies require that you've been with that company for at least a year. 

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering. While the ratings are important, you should also look at whether or not a company responds to customer complaints.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy — what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. At the very least, you should have the terms readily available while you're on your trip.

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Your insurance company may even have a 24/7 assistance hotline that can walk you through an emergency during your trip, even issues that don't involve claims. 

When a problem arises. you'll want to document as much as possible, in case you need proof when filing a claim. Ask for receipts and invoices when possible.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, Business Insider evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award five stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2023 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates travel insurance  for even more details.

Best Travel Insurance FAQs

There isn't one best travel insurance company; there are many great providers on the travel insurance market today. Our overall winner was Nationwide for its breadth of coverage options. AIG Travel Guard, AXA, Berkshire Hathaway, Tin Leg, WorldTrips and Trawick also made the cut. The best pick for you will depend on what features you value the most, like a low premium or high coverage limits.

While coverage varies by policy, common exclusions often include pre-existing medical conditions (unless you have purchased a waiver), accidents caused by high-risk activities if not specifically covered (e.g., skydiving, scuba diving), travel for medical procedures, and events known before purchasing the policy (e.g., traveling during a pandemic). Always read your policy carefully to understand the exclusions.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your total trip cost, so it could vary widely depending on where you're traveling and the length of your trip. Your age, the number of people in your group, and other factors can also influence how much you'll pay.

Yes, travel insurance typically offers some coverage of canceled flights, but if this benefit is important to you, make sure you read the fine print of your policy to make sure it offers adequate reimbursement. If you think you may need to cancel your travel plans, you should consider purchasing cancel for any reason (CFAR) travel insurance .

The right amount of travel insurance depends on your trip, but $100,000 should be sufficient for most travel plans. You may want more coverage for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage.

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Zurich Airport Ltd. in the first half of 2024: higher demand across all business segments

Demand for air travel is strong, passenger numbers are continuing to recover. Real estate and commercial business at Zurich Airport also continued to grow. Against this backdrop, Zurich Airport Ltd. achieved a consolidated result of CHF 151.8 million in the first half of 2024, posting the best half-year result to date in its history.

Total revenue amounted to CHF 631.1 millio n in the first half of 2024 (+9% compared with 2023). This corresponds to 107% of the 2019 figure. Aviation revenue rose by 13% over the prior-year period to CHF 313.5 million. Non-aviation revenue increased by 7% to CHF 317.6 million. Operating expenses climbed by 12% over the prior-year period to CHF 284.4 million.  Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose by 7% over the prior-year period to CHF 346.8 million . Compared with the first half of 2019, EBITDA was up by 14%. This led to a positive consolidated result of CHF 151.8 million (H1 2023: CHF 138.1 million), equivalent to 106% of the best half-year result to date achieved in 2019 (H1 2019: CHF 143.4 million). 

Traffic volumes and route network 

In the first half of 2024, a total of 14,516,638 passengers used Zurich Airport as a departure, transfer or destination airport, 11% more than in the prior-year period and translating into 97% of the figure recorded in the first half of 2019. On peak days, passenger numbers exceeded 100,000. The volume of freight handled climbed by 15% to 215,299 tons (corresponds to 95% of the 2019 figure). In the summer 2024 timetable, 62 airlines are flying to a total of 200 destinations from Zurich Airport, marking a slight increase over the prior year’s summer timetable. 

Positive trend in commercial and real estate revenue 

The higher passenger numbers in the first half of the year left positive traces on commercial revenue on both the airside and the publicly accessible landside. Total commercial and parking revenue increased by 5% over the first half of 2023 to CHF 133.8 million. Compared to the prior-year period, real estate revenue was up 1%, climbing to a new all-time high of CHF 98.2 million. In the first six months of the year, the Circle continued to establish itself as a popular business and service centre for nationally and internationally successful companies and service providers. The occupancy rate stands at more than 90%. 

Investments and major projects 

In the reporting period, Zurich Airport Ltd. invested a total of CHF 275.4 million (prior-year period: CHF 162.9 million) in property, plant, equipment and projects, including CHF 117.0 million at the Zurich site (prior-year period: CHF 84.2 million). Work on developing the landside passenger zones is well underway. This will result in a wider range of retail outlets and dining facilities, improve integration of the Circle and provide more space for passenger routes from autumn 2027. In addition, the main work on the new baggage sorting system at Zurich Airport was completed in June, seven years after the project began. The old system will be phased out in full by 2027. Major progress was made on the preliminary project for the new Dock A in the first half of 2024, with completion expected by the end of the year. Various interim solutions that are needed to maintain operations during the construction phase will be implemented in the near future. A further important milestone in the first half of the year was the receipt of the planning permission applied for at the end of 2019 for the taxiway around runway 28. This important infrastructure project will make it possible to avoid more than 100,000 runway crossings compared with 2019, thus additionally enhancing safety at Zurich Airport. Moreover, in March almost 62 percent of the participating Zurich electorate voted in favour of a further safety project, namely the runway extension 28 and 32. 

International airport business 

Revenue from foreign business rose by 20% to CHF 49 million in the first half of the year. The largest foreign project entails the construction of the new airport in Noida near Delhi, India. Construction work on the runway, the passenger terminal and the control tower have reached an advanced stage of completion. In the first half of 2024, further licences were granted for ground handling, the operation of the commercial zones and important maintenance contracts. The airport is scheduled to go into operation at the end of April 2025. Operation of the international airport in Natal, Brazil, was officially taken over on 19 February 2024. It currently has a capacity of 6.5 million passengers per year and a 30-year concession. At the airport in Iquique, Chile, construction of the terminal was completed in the first half of 2024, with acceptance by the government planned for late summer 2024. 

Outlook 

Driven by a continuing rise in demand, Zurich Airport Ltd. performed favourably in the first half of 2024. Roughly 31 million passengers are expected to pass through the Zurich site over 2024 as a whole. Punctuality improved until the summer months but remains the focus of numerous measures implemented with all relevant partners. Zurich Airport Ltd. is making an important contribution to more sustainable, needs-oriented and high-quality mobility for the Swiss economy through continuous investment and innovation.   

Publication Half Year Results 2024   

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