While many airlines continue to cut back on legroom in economy class, Korean Air has set itself apart by providing generous space, earning the title of the world’s best full-service airline from AirlineRatings.com.
Unlike previous years, when first and business class luxury played a major role in rankings, AirlineRatings.com—a website run by aviation editors who thoroughly evaluate airlines worldwide—focused this year’s assessment on economy-class passengers. According to its CEO, Sharon Petersen, most travelers sit at the back of the plane, making their experience an important consideration.
Korean Air Excels in Economy-Class Comfort
Korean Air, along with seventh-ranked Japan Airlines, provides some of the most spacious economy-class seating globally. On all of its wide-body aircraft, the airline maintains a seat pitch of 33-34 inches. Even on its narrow-body Boeing 737s, used for short-haul flights, passengers still enjoy a comfortable 32-34 inches of space between seats.
In contrast, many other airlines have reduced their economy-class seat pitch to 31-32 inches and squeezed an extra seat into every row of Boeing 777 aircraft—a trend Korean Air has deliberately avoided.
The airline, headquartered in Seoul, has recently added the Airbus A350-900 to its fleet and continues to prioritize economy-class travelers by offering small but meaningful perks. On medium- and long-haul flights, passengers receive complimentary slippers, larger meal portions, and an extensive selection of in-flight entertainment. Additionally, Korean Air plans to introduce a premium economy section on its international routes later this year.
“Korean Air’s Business and First Class products are already recognized for their outstanding meals, efficient service, and comfort,” Petersen explained. “However, it was the airline’s exceptional Economy Class experience that truly secured their win.”
She further noted that passengers frequently complain about limited space in economy class, which made it a key factor in selecting this year’s winner.
The recognition also highlighted Korean Air’s strong business foundation, bolstered by its recently finalized merger with South Korean competitor Asiana Airlines.
This merger marks the largest airline consolidation in Asian history, solidifying Korean Air’s dominant position with a 50 percent share of South Korea’s international air travel market.
Looking ahead, Korean Air is expanding its fleet with younger, more fuel-efficient aircraft. With an average fleet age of just 10.7 years, the airline has placed substantial orders, including 50 Boeing wide-body jets (777s and 787s), 33 Airbus A350s, and 26 Airbus A321neos.
This modern fleet has also contributed to Korean Air’s strong safety record. The airline ranked eighth in AirlineRatings.com’s January assessment of the world’s safest airlines.
Qatar Airways Takes Second Place
Qatar Airways, which won last year’s best full-service airline award, finished as the runner-up this time. Petersen noted that the airline “still offers an outstanding economy experience” but provides slightly less personal space than Korean Air.
Despite this, Qatar Airways continues to receive praise for its premium-class services, particularly the innovative Qsuite in business class.
Air New Zealand rounded out the top three, standing out for its impeccable safety record—it recently topped AirlineRatings.com’s safety rankings. The airline also introduced the Economy Skycouch, a seating arrangement where leg rests lock at a 90-degree angle to create a lie-flat space.
Petersen described the Skycouch as “a game-changer for families or couples traveling together.”
With Air New Zealand set to launch new Business Premier suites and the revolutionary SkyNest economy-class bed bunks, it is expected to maintain or improve its ranking in the future.
Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines completed the top five in the full-service category.
Top 25 Full-Service Airlines
- Korean Air
- Qatar Airways
- Air New Zealand
- Cathay Pacific
- Singapore Airlines
- Emirates
- Japan Airlines
- Qantas
- Etihad Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- EVA Air
- Fiji Airways
- Virgin Atlantic
- ANA (All Nippon Airways)
- Aeromexico
- Air Caraïbes
- Thai Airways
- Starlux Airlines
- Vietnam Airlines
- SriLankan Airlines
- Air France
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
- Aircalin
- Air Mauritius
- Garuda Indonesia
No U.S. Airlines in the Full-Service Category
U.S. airlines did not make the top 25 list, as many have modified their business models. AirlineRatings.com now classifies them as “hybrid airlines” rather than full-service carriers.
Hybrid airlines blend elements of low-cost and full-service operations. Many legacy U.S. and European airlines have shifted toward this approach, offering scaled-back service on short-haul routes while maintaining full-service amenities—such as meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment—on international flights.
JetBlue Leads Among Hybrid Airlines
JetBlue has been a pioneer in the hybrid airline model, setting the standard for competitors. Despite financial struggles in recent years, the airline has maintained high service quality and was recognized as the best hybrid airline by AirlineRatings.com.
JetBlue’s economy-class experience is similar to that of full-service airlines, featuring free Wi-Fi, live TV, and spacious seating with a pitch of 32 to 33 inches. Passengers also receive complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
Additionally, JetBlue offers its premium Mint class, which includes lie-flat seating on select routes.
Canadian airline WestJet came in second place, offering basic complimentary services such as small snacks, soft drinks, and in-flight entertainment. However, it charges for larger snacks, meals, alcoholic beverages, and Wi-Fi. WestJet also has tighter seating, with a pitch of 30-31 inches.
“While both airlines strike a balance between affordability and quality, JetBlue’s broader range of complimentary perks gives it the edge,” Petersen remarked.
Virgin Australia placed third, earning praise for its customer service and crew. Unlike JetBlue, it does not provide free snacks or blankets, but it does offer an option for families traveling with infants to check a 23kg bag for free instead of a stroller, car seat, or crib—an option many parents find useful.
Delta ranked fourth, followed by United in fifth, and American Airlines in sixth.
Top 20 Hybrid Airlines
- JetBlue
- WestJet
- Virgin Australia
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Air Canada
- LOT Polish Airlines
- TAP Air Portugal
- Alaska Airlines
- SWISS
- Avianca
- Iberia
- British Airways
- Finnair
- Austrian Airlines
- Hawaiian Airlines
- ITA Airways
- Scandinavian Airlines
Best Low-Cost and Ultra-Low-Cost Airlines
In the budget airline category, passengers can expect fewer frills, but AirlineRatings.com still identified the best options for value and service.
Malaysian carrier AirAsia was named the best low-cost airline, praised for its Premium Flatbed—a budget-friendly version of a business-class seat.
Meanwhile, VietJet was recognized as the best ultra-low-cost carrier. Petersen explained that the airline has made air travel affordable for millions without sacrificing safety or efficiency. Onboard reviewers particularly appreciated VietJet’s attentive cabin crew. Cebu Pacific from the Philippines was the runner-up in this category.
Top 25 Budget Airlines
- AirAsia
- Jetstar
- AirBaltic
- HK Express
- EasyJet
- FlyDubai
- Ryanair
- Scoot
- Breeze
- Southwest
- SKY Airline
- FlyNas
- TUI
- Norwegian
- IndiGo
- Air Arabia
- Volaris
- Jet2
- Wizz Air
- Vueling
With an increasing emphasis on economy-class passenger comfort, Korean Air’s win reflects a broader industry trend where airlines must balance affordability with quality service.