Top 10 Best Economy Class Airlines in the World for 2025

Economy class has often been seen as the most basic way to fly, but in 2025, some airlines are showing that it can still be a comfortable, enjoyable, and even memorable part of travel.

From thoughtful seating layouts to surprisingly good catering and service that feels attentive, these carriers prove that you don’t always need a premium ticket to feel well looked after.

Best Economy Class Airlines

Skytrax’s latest ranking of the World’s Best Economy Class Airlines highlights those that consistently go the extra mile, offering passengers a smoother and more pleasant journey, whether it’s a short hop or a long-haul adventure.

The following ten airlines represent the very best, blending comfort, efficiency, and small touches of hospitality that make a big difference in the air.

1. Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Pacific has long been known for refining the experience of long-haul travel, and in economy class, it manages to balance comfort with a sense of care that feels genuine.

Seats are thoughtfully designed, giving passengers a little extra legroom compared to the average, while the adjustable headrests and clever cushioning make longer journeys more manageable.

The in-flight entertainment is often highlighted as one of the best, with a wide range of films, TV shows, and music, ensuring hours pass with ease.

Cabin crew bring a calm, attentive service that never feels rushed, reflecting the airline’s reputation for hospitality. Meals are crafted with a mix of Asian and Western flavours, which adds variety and freshness.

2. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways’ economy class has a reputation for feeling far better than what most travellers expect at this level. The airline’s relatively generous seat pitch, adjustable headrests, and carefully designed cabin lighting all help create a sense of comfort, especially on longer routes.

What really sets Qatar apart, though, is the service — the crew are consistently attentive, warm, and quick to help, whether it’s offering drinks mid-flight or making sure families feel settled.

Meals are varied and often exceed typical economy standards, with options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. The Oryx One entertainment system provides an excellent range of films and TV, which makes time on board easier to enjoy.

3. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines delivers an economy class that feels carefully considered, from seating to service. Seats are ergonomically designed, with adjustable headrests and a little more width than the average, making them noticeably more comfortable over long flights.

In-flight entertainment is particularly strong, with KrisWorld offering a vast selection of films, shows, and games that appeal to all ages.

Cabin crew are widely praised for their friendly and professional approach, creating a calm atmosphere even on busy flights. Meals tend to stand out too, with a blend of Asian and international dishes that taste fresher than most travellers expect in economy.

Attention to small details, like hot towels before meals and thoughtful touches for families, adds to the experience. It’s this consistency that makes Singapore Airlines’ economy class a favourite worldwide.

4. ANA All Nippon Airways

ANA’s economy class reflects the Japanese approach to service: precise, thoughtful, and efficient. Seating is arranged to provide decent legroom, with slimline designs that maximise personal space without feeling cramped.

The in-flight entertainment system is simple to navigate, offering a balanced mix of international and Japanese films, music, and TV shows.

What passengers often notice most, however, is the attentiveness of the crew. They are courteous and proactive, creating an atmosphere where even small requests are met with genuine care.

Catering combines Japanese specialities with more familiar international dishes, allowing passengers to enjoy both comfort and a taste of local culture. ANA also pays attention to little details such as clean, well-kept cabins and smooth boarding.

5. Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines brings a refined touch to its economy cabin, emphasising comfort and service. The seats are considered some of the roomiest in economy, offering generous legroom and wider cushions, which can make a big difference on long-haul flights.

Entertainment is varied and reliable, with a good selection of international and Japanese programmes available on the easy-to-use system.

Cabin crew are consistently polite, efficient and quick to anticipate needs, creating a calm and reassuring environment throughout the flight. Meals often showcase Japanese flavours, alongside international options, providing a welcome variety for travellers.

What passengers frequently remark upon is the smoothness of the entire journey, from boarding to arrival. Japan Airlines proves that economy travel can still feel dignified and genuinely comfortable when the basics are handled with such care.

6. EVA Air

EVA Air’s economy class is often considered among the best in Asia, thanks to a balance of comfort, service and thoughtful details.

Seating is supportive, with adjustable headrests and a layout that feels slightly less cramped than some competitors. Inflight entertainment is extensive, with a user-friendly system offering a broad mix of international and Asian content.

The cabin crew are attentive and friendly, often going out of their way to make passengers feel welcome, whether by offering drinks regularly or helping families settle in.

Catering usually receives strong reviews too, with a blend of Taiwanese-inspired dishes and standard international options that taste fresher than typical airline fare.

EVA Air manages to create a reliable, pleasant experience that stands out from the crowd, making long-haul journeys in economy far more comfortable.

7. Emirates

Emirates has built its reputation around luxury, but even in economy class, the experience is notably strong. Seats are reasonably spacious, with adjustable headrests and decent recline, designed to make long flights easier.

The in-flight entertainment system, ICE, is often considered the best in the world, offering thousands of films, series, music albums, and games. This alone makes Emirates stand out.

The service on board is attentive and professional, with a crew that maintains a high standard even when cabins are full. Catering is also impressive, featuring generous portions and a choice of international dishes, often paired with complimentary drinks.

8. STARLUX Airlines

As one of the newer carriers from Taiwan, STARLUX Airlines has quickly gained attention for the quality of its cabins, and its economy class reflects this modern approach.

The seats are ergonomically designed with good cushioning and personal entertainment screens, giving travellers a sense of comfort from the start. The in-flight entertainment library is solid, offering a varied range of films and music.

Cabin service is where STARLUX really shines, as crew members are consistently praised for their friendly, enthusiastic approach, which adds warmth to the journey. Meals are thoughtfully prepared, often featuring Asian influences alongside international favourites, giving passengers more than just standard fare.

9. Hainan Airlines

Hainan Airlines is often seen as China’s best full-service carrier, and its economy class does a lot to back that up.

The seating is relatively spacious compared to some competitors, with adjustable headrests and a practical layout that feels comfortable for longer flights. Entertainment options are varied, with a good selection of both Western and Chinese content.

Service is a standout, as the crew are polite, attentive, and work hard to maintain a pleasant atmosphere throughout the flight.

Catering is also well received, featuring Chinese-inspired dishes as well as international meals, usually served with care. Hainan’s cabins are kept tidy and modern, creating an overall sense of professionalism.

10. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines has built a strong reputation across Europe and beyond, and its economy class plays a major role in that success. The seats are comfortable, offering decent space and support for long journeys, while adjustable headrests add an extra touch of ease.

The entertainment system is wide-ranging, with hundreds of films, series, and music options catering to all preferences. Where Turkish really shines is in its catering — meals are consistently praised as some of the best in the economy, featuring generous portions and fresh flavours inspired by Turkish cuisine.

Cabin crew are friendly and efficient, ensuring that the service feels smooth even on busy flights. Combined with well-maintained cabins and a strong global route network, Turkish Airlines’ economy is a popular choice for passengers seeking comfort at a good value.

Photo: Singapore Airlines

Bottom line

While economy class can vary greatly from one airline to another, these ten carriers have shown that quality service and passenger comfort don’t need to be sacrificed in the most affordable cabin.

Each of them brings its own strengths, from generous legroom and excellent in-flight entertainment to standout catering and thoughtful service.

Whether travelling across continents or just a few hours away, passengers choosing any of these airlines in 2025 are likely to notice the difference. It’s a reminder that flying economy today can still feel reliable, enjoyable, and even a little special when done with care.

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