Korean Air beats Qatar Airways as World’s Best Airline for 2025
One reason for the win is that, unlike other competitors that have reduced seat pitch in economy class, Korean Air has maintained its generous 33-34 seat pitch on its wide-body aircraft. Moreover, passengers can experience thoughtful extras like eye masks, slippers and a choice between Western and Korean cuisine.
Speaking of the ranking, AirlineRankings.com’s CEO, Sharon Petersen praised the airline’s commitment to passenger comfort, saying:
While many airlines have squeezed in a tenth seat per row on 777 aircraft, Korean Air has chosen not to follow this trend.
How are the airlines ranked?
When Airline Rankings ran the study, the rankings were based on factors like passenger comfort, safety ratings, product consistency and financial stability. Moreover, the airlines had to meet specific requirements, including a minimum economy seat pitch of 31 inches. They also had to offer lie-flat business-class beds, along with a seven-star safety rating.
Simon Calder, a travel correspondent for The Independent said:
It’s good that an airline bold enough to offer more space in economy has been recognized. This is a welcome exception to the gradual ‘densification’ of economy on other airlines.
Top 25 airlines in 2025
- Korean Air
- Qatar
- Air New Zealand
- Cathay Pacific
- Singapore Airlines
- Emirates
- Japan Airlines
- Qantas
- Etihad
- Turkish Airlines
- EVA Air
- Fiji Airways
- Virgin Atlantic
- ANA
- Aero Mexico
- Air Caraibes
- Thai Airways
- STARLUX Airlines
- Vietnam Airlines
- Sri Lankan Airlines
- Air France
- KLM
- Air Calin
- Air Mauritius
- Garuda Indonesia
Why did Korean Air come up as number 1?
According to the study, Korean Air has won the Airline of the Year 2025 award for its exceptional focus on passenger comfort, particularly in Economy Class. Furthermore, the airline maintains industry-leading seat pitches of 33-34 inches on wide-body aircraft. Unlike many of its competitors, the airline has resisted reducing sea space, thus ensuring a more comfortable travel experience.
Moreover, the airline’s thoughtful touches, including slippers and generous meal portions on long-haul flights, enhanced its appeal. Meanwhile, besides the passenger experience, Korean Air’s financial stability, the groundbreaking merger with Asiana Airlines, and significant investments in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft showcase its commitment to innovation and future-readiness, solidifying its win.
Learn more about the rankings on AirlineRatings.com, including the top 20 Hybrid Airlines for 2025, and the Here are the top 20 Low-Cost Airlines for 2025.
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