• Air travel

I’ve flown in the world’s best first-class cabins. Here’s my verdict

Airlines are bringing back first-class, bigger and better than ever. So which carrier is soaring highest?

• John Arlidge

• ★★★★★
• Los Angeles

This is the best way to fly between Australia and the US

With its private check-in, stunning new lounge and business suites with closing doors, this US airline outdoes the competition.

• Craig Tansley

• ★★★★
• Vietnam

This business class to Europe is an absolute bargain

This airline’s fares can be almost one third less than the price of a top-tier carrier, depending on the timing of your flight.

• Sue Williams

• ★★½
• For subscribers

My 8½ hour flight became a 19-hour endurance test

A mechanical issue saw my flight return to Sydney shortly after take-off. Understandable, but what happened next was less than satisfactory.

• John Borthwick

• ★★★★
• Japan

This first-class is dated, but superlative service makes up for it

The plane on this route is 17 years old and looks it, but rarely have I encountered such welcoming, warm and thoughtful staff.

• Trudi Jenkins

• ★★★★
• For subscribers

Dreading this long-haul flight, I had the best surprise

After forking out on business class to Europe for several years, it was time to see if premium economy is the Goldilocks option.

• Trudi Jenkins

• ★★★★★
• Abu Dhabi

This business class seat is a perfect ‘hotel in the sky’

This is one snug designer cubbyhole even if the unusual backwards-facing aspect of the seat takes a little getting used to.

• Anthony Dennis

• Collection
• Air travel

The top-rated airlines of the year

From short-haul budget carriers to the longest route on the planet on a plane with no economy class, here are the airlines we rated the best in 2024.

• Reviews & advice

Airline reviews: A to Z of Traveller's expert flight tests

Taking a flight? Find out what to expect from your seat, service and route with our comprehensive airline reviews.

• ★★★½
• For subscribers

Airline review: Carry-on limits ignored on this Mid East airline

Passengers wedge enormous bags into the overhead lockers, then start a bunfight trying to rip their luggage out while we are still taxiing to our gate.

• Belinda Jackson