Flying first class is synonymous with the ultimate pleasure when it comes to air travel. Just setting foot on the plane and catching a glimpse of those elite seats through the curtains is enough to give you mixed feelings of envy and admiration. But there is also something fun and exciting about peeking into first class. After all, it is quite impressive the way airlines design this exclusive section, trying to outdo each other when it comes to customer satisfaction and luxury. Skytrax, the UK-based aviation consumer agency, has recently published its annual Best Airlines in the World ranking. The survey, which began in 1999, is a list of questions asked to consumers that make up what is considered to be the most professional and prestigious survey in the aviation world. It has grown from consulting 2.2 million airline travelers in 2000 to asking more than 20 million people who have participated in 2024.
10. Thai Airways
Why they made the list Thai Airways’ “Royal First Class” is designed with comfort in mind. Featured on AirBus A380s and recently refurbished Boeing 747s, Royal First Class includes champagne, 23-inch-wide seats, flat-screen TVs, 500 music CDs, and 180-degree recline beds.
9. Qantas Airways
Why they made the list: Because Australia’s flagship airline, Qantas Airlines is an elite operator. A sheepskin mattress, ergonomic controls, and a 17-inch screen await the lucky passenger, while a company attendant is on hand to serve designer food from a menu designed by Neil Perry. The award-winning wine selection from Qantas’s “Cellar in the Air” is a nice touch, too.
8. Cathay Pacific Airways
Why they made the list Hong Kong’s flagship airline, Cathay Pacific Airways, boasts a first-class with absolutely premium service. Leather seats offer comfortable massages at the passenger’s request, and 500-thread-count duvets keep you warm when you decide to lie down. While you enjoy your 17-inch screen, you can order steaming jasmine rice.
7. Qatar Airways
Why they made the list Founded, Qatar Airways has made a name for itself in the world of premium first class. Blending luxury and elegance, Qatar Airways’ first-class cabin includes a double bed with luxury Frette linens and an ultra-comfortable duvet, 4,000 entertainment options at your fingertips, and a world-renowned menu that has previously included filet mignon, scallops, or shrimp ka-bob.
6. ANA All Nippon Airways
Why they made the list ANA is Japan’s largest airline. A private cabin with sliding doors ensures that no passenger will be disturbed on the journey, as high wooden walls create a haven in the air. Delicious in-flight meals are prepared either in Japanese Kaiseki style or with the elegance of modern European cuisine. At ANA, privacy is at its best.
5. Emirates
Why they made the list The Dubai-based airline has grown its reputation as one of the world’s best flying experiences. Its first-class suite is essentially a five-star hotel room with climate controls, dimmable lighting, and Mercedes-Benz-inspired leather seating. Hundreds of entertainment options and a 10-year-old wine cellar help Emirates deliver an authentic first-class experience.
4. Lufthansa
Why they made the list This German airline is Europe’s largest in both size and fleet. Lufthansa’s first-class experience includes being picked up by a personal assistant at the airport, a wide, reclining seat, fine wine, and culinary delights accompanying the many in-flight entertainment options.
3. Air France
Why they made the list France’s leading airline, Air France, offers one of the best first-class services with its ” Le Premiere First Class ” where the seats feel like you’re in a luxury hotel room. Famous chefs such as Joël Robuchon, Guy Martin, and Régis Marcon serve as inspiration for the varied gastronomic offerings served on bone china designed by Bernardaud.
2. Etihad Airways
Why they made the list Founded just 15 years ago, Etihad Airways is the flagship airline of the United Arab Emirates. Etihad Airways is another global transportation gem, as its first-class cabin is essentially a giant apartment with a 2-meter fully-flat bed and access to Etihad’s in-flight showers and exclusive luxury lounge.
1. Singapore Airlines
Why did they make the list Ranked by Skytrax as the world’s best airline for 2024, it’s no surprise that the Singaporean airline is also ranked as having the best first-class service. Their premium service has been a game-changer for onboard comfort. Private space, extra-wide seats, dimmable lighting, and 1,000 entertainment options are just some of the perks you get when you fly with Singapore Airlines.