We understand the importance of providing our discerning clients with the finest travel experiences. In 2024, the world of premium air travel has reached new heights, with airlines offering unparalleled levels of comfort, service, and amenities. According to AirlineRatings.com, the leading authority on airline safety and product ratings, the top five airlines 2024 are Emirates, Air New Zealand, Cathay Pacific Airways, Korean Air, and Qatar Airways. Let’s dive into what makes each of these airlines stand out in the world of luxury travel.
#5 of best Airlines 2024 - Emirates
Emirates, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has long been synonymous with opulence and grandeur in the skies. This airline boasts a modern fleet of wide-body aircraft, offering spacious cabins and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Emirates’ first-class suites are among the most opulent in the sky, featuring fully-enclosed private suites with lie-flat beds, personal mini-bars, and on-demand dining. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Emirates ensures that your journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
The Dubai-based airline Emirates ranks No. 5 on the list of best airlines 2024 and also won the website’s awards for best premium economy and in-flight entertainment.
#4 for Innovation - Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand consistently ranks among the top airlines for its innovative products and exceptional customer service. In 2024, the airline is set to launch its revolutionary “Skynest” economy bunk beds, allowing passengers to stretch out and sleep comfortably on long-haul flights. Air New Zealand’s premium cabins feature lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and a wide selection of entertainment options, ensuring that every aspect of your journey is a delight.
Air New Zealand was awarded best economy class and was the top pick for long-haul travel in Australia and the Pacific. Since 2011, the airline has had lie-flat bed seats in economy. Business Insider reporter Taylor Rains previously booked a seat — known as a “Skycouch” — for a 17-hour flight and found that the added comfort made the long flight go by quickly.
#3 Best airlines 2024 (and Consistently on the list) - Cathay Pacific Airways
Hong Kong’s flag carrier, Cathay Pacific Airways, is known for its impeccable service and attention to detail. The airline’s premium cabins offer a refined and comfortable travel experience, with lie-flat seats, high-quality amenities, and a diverse selection of gourmet meals. Cathay Pacific’s lounges are among the best in the industry, providing a luxurious pre-flight experience that sets the tone for the journey ahead.
Cathay Pacific Airways also received the website’s excellence in long-haul travel award for South-East Asia. Cathay Pacific Airways was included in Skytrax’s roundup of 10 five-star-rated airlines. As part of OneWorld alliance, you can redeem American Airlines or British Airways miles for flights on this airline, one of the best airlines 2024.
#2 - Korean Air
Korean Air, the flag carrier of South Korea, has consistently ranked among the top airlines for its exceptional service and premium offerings. The airline’s first-class and business-class cabins feature spacious suites with lie-flat beds, high-end amenities, and a wide range of entertainment options. Korean Air’s in-flight dining is renowned for its quality and variety, featuring both Korean and international cuisine prepared by world-class chefs.
#1 of best Airlines 2024 - Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways, the flag carrier of Qatar, has been named #1 of the world’s best airlines 2024 by AirlineRatings.com. The airline’s premium cabins, particularly its award-winning QSuite business class, offer an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort. Qatar Airways is praised for its exceptional service, gourmet dining, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. The airline’s commitment to innovation and passenger satisfaction has earned it numerous accolades and a loyal following among discerning travelers worldwide.
Qatar is also a member of the OneWorld alliance, so you can use miles from American Airlines or British Airways on this airline (because, let’s face it, neither one of those is stellar).
AirlineRatings.com editor in chief Geoffrey Thomas said Qatar Airways was the No. 1 pick for many of the criteria, according to the company’s website. In passenger reviews, Thomas noted the luxury airline scored far “ahead of all airlines, and its consistency and high standard of service delivery came through in the feedback.”