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The top-rated airlines of the year
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The top-rated airlines of the year

In 2024, Traveller’s writers flew with all types of airlines around the world, whether it was with short-haul budget carriers or the longest route on the planet on a plane with no economy class. Here are the flights we rated the best.

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Singapore Airlines uses the Airbus A350-900 to fly the world’s longest non-stop route.
★★★★★

The world’s longest flight is an absolute pleasure

If you’re ever going to splurge on a front-of-plane experience, let it be this one.

  • by Carolyn Beasley
Absence of baggage lockers above middle rows gives an airy, spacious feel.
★★★★1/2

It’s no Rolls-Royce, but this business class is good value

A surprise design feature in this business class cabin gives it a particularly spacious and airy feeling.

  • by Jane Richards
Decent legroom even with a reclined seat in front.
★★★★½

Economy class on the ‘World’s Best Airline’ for 2024

Someone give this crew a gold medal – their service is exemplary.

  • by Ute Junker
New Qantas plane raises the standard for short flights
★★★★★

New Qantas plane raises the standard for short flights

Qantas is bringing in new Airbus A220s as part of its fleet renewal. They are spacious and well designed – even in the toilets.

  • by Julietta Jameson
Emirates’ premium economy is superb.
★★★★½

Airline review: This superjumbo premium economy seat is superb

This is clearly the world’s best-practice version of premium economy.

  • by Anthony Dennis
Korean Air is one of the few airlines flying the 747-8, the last jumbo jet developed by Boeing.
★★★★½

Rare jumbo jet’s economy class feels more like premium

I can’t remember the last time I wanted a flight in economy to last a bit longer.

  • by Kristie Kellahan
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The seat has just 31 inches (79 cm) of legroom, but you probably won’t need to sleep.
★★★★½

This ticket to paradise is excellent, even in economy

Even in economy class, this airline and its friendly staff get you in the mood for an island holiday from the moment you step on board.

  • by Emily McAuliffe
Emirates’ business class is all class.
★★★★½

Qantas take note, this is how you do business class on a superjumbo

When it comes to the pointy end, Emirates is all class. Its Australian codeshare partner needs to start paying attention.

  • by Anthony Dennis
Service in the premium economy cabin was outstanding.
★★★★★

This premium economy is nothing short of outstanding

Plenty of airlines offer good service, but I’ve never flown with a crew who seemed to enjoy their job this much.

  • by Ute Junker
JetBlue’s seats offer plenty of legroom.
★★★★★

Believe it or not, this US budget carrier is excellent

Free Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment, complimentary snacks and drinks, plenty of legroom – this budget airline exceeds expectations.

  • by Kristie Kellahan
Economy seats offer a standard pitch of 30 inches (76cm) and width 18 inches (46cm).
★★★★½

I’m in love with this European national carrier

It’s my favourite airline to fly in Europe and they take special care of families. It’s a national carrier Greece can be proud of.

  • by Flip Byrnes
Sleek Nordic interiors: Finnair’s premium economy.
★★★★½

This premium economy is a worthwhile step-up from cattle class

Premium economy risks being double the price and not very different to regular economy, but there are several reasons Finnair is worth the extra cost.

  • by Kate Allman
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Find out what you're in for with our Flight Test airline reviews.

A to Z of Traveller’s expert airline reviews

Taking a flight? Find out what to expect from your seat, service and route with our comprehensive airline reviews. Here’s our full list of reviews.

Original URL: https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/traveller/reviews-and-advice/the-top-rated-airlines-of-the-year-20241217-p5kz3b.html