Emirates Tops the 2025 Airline Rankings—Again
Long-haul travel is back—and competition among global airlines is fiercer than ever. In the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards, travelers from around the world voted Emirates as the best long-haul airline, reaffirming its position at the top of the aviation game.
With data sourced from thousands of passengers flying between major hubs like Tokyo Haneda, Singapore Changi, and London Heathrow, the rankings reveal one thing: service, innovation, and fleet modernization now define success.
Emirates Leads With Luxury and Expansion
Dubai-based Emirates (EK) clinched the No. 1 spot for the second year in a row, thanks to its bold investments in aircraft and customer experience. In 2025 alone, the airline refurbished 61 aircraft—including 31 Airbus A380s and 30 Boeing 777s—as part of a $5 billion retrofit program.
Beyond upgrades, Emirates expanded its network by launching new routes to Shenzhen, Da Nang, Siem Reap, and Hangzhou, tapping deeper into Asia’s fast-growing travel market.
The carrier’s stronghold on the top tier since 2014 speaks volumes about its consistency, innovation, and Skywards loyalty program, now enhanced through partnerships with airlines like Garuda Indonesia and flydubai.
ANA and Singapore Airlines Close Behind
All Nippon Airways (ANA) soared to second place in 2025, a major leap from previous years. The Japanese airline has doubled down on long-haul routes, precision scheduling, and service culture—earning it newfound respect in global rankings.
Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines (SQ) secured the third spot. Renowned for its luxurious Suites Class and exceptional hospitality, SQ continues to win over global travelers with new cabin innovations and a strong international route network.
Qatar Airways, Japan Airlines, and Other Global Players
Qatar Airways (QR) held strong in the top five thanks to its award-winning Qsuite cabins and broad network reach. Not far behind, Japan Airlines (JL) landed in fifth place, bolstered by fleet upgrades and inflight enhancements.
Other top ten players included:
Virgin Atlantic (VS) – consistent performance on transatlantic routes
Cathay Pacific (CX) – renowned for service quality and recovery post-COVID
EVA Air (BR) – highly rated for safety and premium economy
Air New Zealand (NZ) – praised for innovation and regional excellence
Emirates Doubles Down on Fleet and Routes
In addition to modernizing its fleet, Emirates has pushed new international routes in 2025. Destinations like Shenzhen and Da Nang are now on the map, connecting global travelers to emerging hubs in Southeast Asia and China. The airline’s deployment of the A350 signals a shift toward greater fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and cutting-edge design.
Western Airlines Fall Behind in the Rankings
While Asian and Middle Eastern carriers thrive, several legacy Western airlines are rapidly losing ground.
British Airways (BA) fell dramatically to 36th place, a far cry from its former glory.
Lufthansa (LH) and Air Canada (AC) also dropped in the rankings, as customers increasingly prefer airlines offering modern fleets, better pricing, and luxury experiences.
This shift reflects changing consumer expectations—and the urgent need for Western carriers to adapt.
Norse Atlantic Airways: A Surprise Entrant
One standout in this year’s rankings is Norse Atlantic Airways (N0). Making its debut in 2025, this low-cost long-haul carrier secured the 14th spot. Offering new aircraft, competitive fares, and premium service, Norse is carving a space in a market once dominated by giants.
The Future of International Air Travel
The 2025 long-haul airline rankings reveal more than just winners and losers—they spotlight a transformation in global aviation.
Carriers that invest in comfort, fleet modernization, and innovative service are thriving. Those clinging to past reputations are falling behind. As the skies get busier, only those who evolve will stay ahead in the race for passenger loyalty.
