World’s Best Airline for 2025 revealed

Qatar Airways has been knocked off its perch as World’s Best Airline with a surprise carrier now dominating the top spot.

Qatar Airways has been knocked off its perch as World’s Best Airline with Korean Air dominating the top spot for 2025.

The South Korean flag carrier’s commitment to “passenger comfort” was cited as one of the main reasons for its triumph in annual Airlinerating.com top 25 best airlines across the globe awards.

The Australian-based aviation safety and product rating agency World’s Best Airline Awards are based on feedback from travellers, expert editor reviews, overall product choice and consistency for passengers, innovation, and forward fleet orders.

Airline of The Year for 2025 goes to Korean Air in the annual Airlineratings.com awards. Picture: iStock

Qatar fell back one spot to second place followed by Air New Zealand, Cathay Pacific Singapore Airlines, Emirates and Japan Airlines.

Australia’s own Qantas nabbed spot eight, followed by Etihad and Turkish Airlines.

Korean Air was commended for maintaining its original seat configuration and prioritising the needs of economy travellers.

“These awards are not a popularity contest or a people’s choice award. As airline experts, we conduct a meticulous assessment of each category to help travellers identify the best airlines for quality, value, and safety,” AirlineRatings.com CEO Sharon Petersen said.

Speaking on Korean Air’s win, Ms Peterson said they placed particular emphasis on economy class, “as it is where most passengers travel”.

It beat Qatar Airways, with the Doha-based airline falling back one spot to second place. Picture: Louai Beshara/AFP

Korean Air won for its exceptional focus on passenger comfort, particularly in economy class. Picture: AirlineRatings.com

“While many airlines have added a 10th seat per row on 777 aircraft and reduced seat pitch in economy to 31–32 inches (down from the previous 32–33 inches), Korean Air has chosen not to follow this trend,” she explained.

“They have maintained their original seat configuration and a generous 33-34 inch seat pitch, offering passengers a more comfortable experience.”

It has been described as rare in today’s industry.

Meanwhile, passengers on medium-to long-haul flights are also treated to “thoughtful touches”, such as slippers, larger meal portions compared to most other airlines, and an improved selection of in-flight entertainment over recent years.

“While the airline’s business and first class products are highly regarded for their exceptional meals, efficient service, and comfort, it was Korean Air’s outstanding Economy Class offering that truly secured their win,” Ms Petersen said.

“We consistently receive feedback about the lack of space in Economy Class, so it was only fitting to make this a major factor in selecting this year’s award winner.”

The judges also noted the carrier’s groundbreaking merger with Asiana Airlines – the largest consolidation in Asian aviation history – as a factor in their decision.

Despite Qatar Airways being knocked off the top spot, it was once again awarded ‘Best Business Class’.

“The experience on Qatar Airways Business Class is second to none. While the Qsuite is already best in class, Qatar will soon elevate it further with the launch of the Qsuite Next Gen, featuring wider seats, longer beds, enhanced privacy, and upgraded technology,” Ms Petersen said.