Korean Air has been named the World’s Best Airline for 2025, knocking Qatar Airways off the top spot in a surprise ranking by AirlineRatings.com. The South Korean flag carrier was recognized for its commitment to passenger comfort, particularly in economy class, setting it apart from its competitors.
The annual awards, conducted by the Australian-based aviation safety and product rating agency, evaluate airlines based on passenger feedback, expert reviews, innovation, fleet orders, and overall service consistency.
Top 25 Airlines of 2025:
1. Korean Air
2. Qatar
3. Air New Zealand
4. Cathay Pacific
5. Singapore Airlines
6. Emirates
7. Japan Airlines
8. Qantas
9. Etihad
10. Turkish Airlines
11. EVA Air
12. Fiji Airways
13. Virgin Atlantic
14. ANA
15. Aero Mexico
16. Air Caraibes
17. Thai Airways
18. STARLUX Airlines
19. Vietnam Airlines
20. Sri Lankan Airlines
21. Air France
22. KLM (note the airline are trialling a Hybrid model on some routes)
23. Air Calin
24. Air Mauritius
25. Garuda Indonesia
Meanwhile, SriLankan Airlines has been ranked 20th in the list, reflecting its ongoing efforts to improve service quality and expand its regional and international presence.
Why Korean Air Won
Korean Air was praised for preserving passenger comfort in economy class, a rarity in today’s airline industry. Unlike many competitors that have reduced seat pitch to 31-32 inches and crammed 10 seats per row on Boeing 777 aircraft, Korean Air has maintained a generous 33-34 inch seat pitch and its original seat configuration, providing passengers with more legroom and a better overall experience.
AirlineRatings.com CEO Sharon Petersen emphasized that economy class comfort played a major role in selecting this year’s winner, stating that passengers consistently report dissatisfaction with shrinking seat space. Korean Air’s commitment to prioritizing economy passengers was a key factor in its victory.
The airline also received praise for its enhanced passenger experience on long-haul flights, offering slippers, larger meal portions, and an improved selection of in-flight entertainment. Its business and first-class cabins were already highly regarded for their top-tier meals, efficiency, and comfort, but it was the airline’s exceptional economy class service that sealed its win.
Additionally, Korean Air’s historic merger with Asiana Airlines, the largest aviation consolidation in Asia, was noted as a groundbreaking move that contributed to its ranking.
Qatar Airways Still Dominates Business Class
Despite losing its number one ranking, Qatar Airways retained its position as the airline with the Best Business Class. The carrier’s Qsuite remains the industry standard, and the upcoming Qsuite Next Gen promises even wider seats, longer beds, enhanced privacy, and upgraded in-flight technology.
The Rise of Passenger Comfort in Rankings
The 2025 rankings highlight a growing emphasis on passenger comfort, particularly in economy class, as airlines continue to balance cost-cutting measures with service quality. Korean Air’s win signals a shift in industry expectations, where passenger experience—especially in economy—plays a bigger role in determining the world’s best airline.
