Let’s be honest: travel has evolved at lightning speed. It wasn’t too long ago that crossing continents meant enduring endless journeys by horse-drawn carriage. Today, we jet across the globe in comfort on 300-seater airplanes in a matter of hours.
Yet, no matter how advanced air travel gets, spending 12 hours in a confined seat can still be a challenge. Fortunately, some airlines have mastered the art of making long-haul flights not just bearable—but genuinely enjoyable.
Whether through exceptional service, cozy cabins, gourmet meals, or award-winning amenities, these airlines have turned flying into a luxury experience. Based on the prestigious Skytrax World Airlines Awards, here are the top airlines making long journeys feel like a dream:
10. Swiss International Airlines
Swiss International Airlines perfectly captures the spirit of Switzerland: elegant, efficient, and reliable. This airline is famous for its punctuality, but it’s the subtle luxury that really stands out.
Passengers are treated to gourmet meals (including delectable Swiss chocolates), comfortable leather seats, and impeccable service. Business class guests especially rave about the fully flat beds that help erase jet lag before you even land.
9. Air France
France has always been synonymous with style—and Air France lives up to that reputation. This airline offers a sleek cabin atmosphere and in-flight dining that’s a cut above the rest, especially in business class where French wines and Champagne flow freely.
Even in economy, passengers enjoy refined meals, comfortable seating, and a fantastic selection of in-flight entertainment that makes any journey feel special.
8. EVA Air
EVA Air, Taiwan’s pride, is often considered a hidden gem among global airlines.
Known for its immaculate cabins, memory-foam seating, and thoughtful amenities—like complimentary pajamas in premium classes—EVA Air specializes in ultimate comfort. Their Royal Laurel business class even features semi-private suites with soft bedding, moody lighting, and exquisite dining options that rival top restaurants.
7. Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines brings a taste of warm hospitality to the skies. From check-in to landing, the staff’s professionalism and friendliness shine.
Their in-flight meals are a highlight, featuring rich Turkish flavors even in economy class. And with an in-flight entertainment system packed with endless movies and shows, boredom is never an issue, no matter how long the flight.
6. Japan Airlines
Flying with Japan Airlines feels like stepping into a world of timeless grace and care.
Service is courteous, efficient, and always customer-focused. Even economy seats are among the roomiest you’ll find. Meanwhile, business class travelers are treated to an authentic Japanese culinary journey complete with sushi, sake, and stunning presentation.
5. Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific effortlessly brings Hong Kong’s sophistication into the skies.
From wide, comfortable seating to an impressive entertainment library and exceptional food and drink options, this airline puts comfort first. Add to that warm, personalized service and world-class lounges across Asia, and you have an unbeatable long-haul experience.
4. ANA All Nippon Airways
ANA All Nippon Airways continues to set the gold standard for air travel.
With a commitment to impeccable service and reliability, passengers experience refined comfort from start to finish. Business class travelers get to relax in ‘The Room,’ a spacious suite with a private closet, generous seating space, and top-notch Japanese and Western dining options.
3. Emirates
Emirates is almost a mythical name in luxury air travel.
From private suites and onboard showers to in-flight bars and designer toiletries in first and business class, Emirates makes every flight unforgettable. Even in economy, the seats are spacious and designed for true rest, and the starlit cabin ceiling adds a magical touch to nighttime flights.
2. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines consistently ranks among travelers’ favorites for good reason.
They offer unparalleled service, roomy seating, thoughtful amenities, and menus featuring dishes from around the globe. With one of the best in-flight entertainment systems around, Singapore Airlines truly sets the bar high for long-haul flights.
1. Qatar Airways
Taking the crown as the best airline is Qatar Airways.
Their business class Qsuite is unrivaled—think fully private, lie-flat beds, doors for extra privacy, and even double beds for couples traveling together. Every meal is crafted by world-renowned chefs, and service is impeccable across all cabin classes. With a central hub in Doha connecting easily to the world, Qatar Airways delivers luxury and convenience at every turn.