Korean Air Claims Top Spot in Global Airline Rankings for 2025

SEOUL, South Korea — Korean Air has been named the ‘Airline of the Year’ for 2025, ending Qatar Airways’ extended reign at the apex of global airline rankings, according to AirlineRatings.com. This announcement highlights a significant shift in the airline industry’s competitive landscape.

Korean Air climbed to the top position by emphasizing passenger comfort in economy class, a critical factor noted during the evaluation process. AirlineRatings.com recognized its decision to maintain spacious seating arrangements instead of overcrowding, a trend many competitors have pursued. Qatar Airways, which previously held the number one spot, slipped to second place, with Air New Zealand coming in third.

The report detailed that the rankings are based on several factors including passenger feedback, expert reviews, safety ratings, and innovations. Sharon Petersen, CEO of AirlineRatings.com, emphasized that the awards reflect a rigorous assessment rather than a popularity contest. She stated, “By maintaining a commitment to comfort and innovation, Korean Air stood out among its peers as many airlines have opted for cost-cutting measures impacting passenger experience.”

Despite Singapore Airlines being recognized as the fifth-best airline globally, it also secured its position as one of Asia’s top three full-service carriers. The low-cost subsidiary Scoot was ranked eighth in the ‘Best Low-Cost Airlines’ category, reinforcing Singapore’s competitive presence in both full-service and low-cost segments.

As for Korean Air, it received accolades for its emphasis on economy class comfort, particularly avoiding the common industry technique of adding an extra seat per row. Passengers flying on the airline are offered a seat pitch ranging from 31 to 34 inches, which allows for greater personal space compared to rivals who have reduced seat pitches.

Travelers can expect growing competition for top-tier experiences as airlines adapt their services to meet customer demands for comfort and quality. “As the airline industry evolves, it remains imperative for the carriers to prioritize the passenger experience, particularly for economy travelers,” Petersen added.

The release of the 2025 rankings not only showcases the competitive nature of the airline industry but also hints at potential shifts in customer loyalty as passengers gravitate towards airlines that prioritize both comfort and value.

In addition to the rankings of Korean Air and Singapore Airlines, the report included other major carriers, such as Cathay Pacific, Emirates, and Japan Airlines, which have been recognized for their commitment to high-quality service.

As the momentum continues to build among leading airlines to improve passenger experiences, the 2025 rankings serve as a reminder to both travelers and airlines alike of the evolving expectations in air travel.

For more comprehensive insights and the complete list of the world’s best airlines, visit AirlineRatings.com.