State Department urge ‘increased caution’ when traveling abroad
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- Qatar Airways was named the world’s best airline for the ninth time by Skytrax.
- No U.S. airlines ranked within the top 20 airlines, while Middle Eastern and Asian airlines dominated the list.
- Experts suggest U.S. airlines prioritize profits over passenger experience, contributing to their lower rankings.
Skytrax recently released its World’s Best Airline Awards of 2025, also known as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.” This year, Qatar Airways secured the top position for an impressive ninth time, affirming its status in the competitive realm of air travel. Notably, no U.S. airlines made it onto the list, raising questions about the current state of American air travel.
Skytrax has been tracking airline rankings since 1999, basing its findings on extensive surveys that gauge passenger satisfaction worldwide. This year’s global survey spanned from September 2024 to May 2025, culminating in announcements made on June 17. Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, mentioned, “We welcomed back a large number of previous winners and were also delighted to see new faces and airlines represented here today.” This underscores the significance of consistent quality in airline service, as recognized by travelers.
Qatar Airways not only clinched the title of World’s Best Airline but also earned accolades for Best Airline in the Middle East, World’s Best Business Class, and Best Business Class Airline Lounge. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group CEO, expressed, “This recognition is far more than an award; it is a celebration of the passion, precision, and purpose that defines who we are as an airline.”
The dominance of Middle Eastern and Asian airlines in the top tier is evident; reputable names like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates continued to shine. It’s important to note that U.S. airlines were absent from the top 20, a rarity that highlights trends within the industry.
Best airlines of 2025
According to Skytrax, the top 20 airlines of 2025 are as follows:
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- Emirates
- ANA All Nippon Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- Korean Air
- Air France
- Japan Airlines
- Hainan Airlines
- Swiss International Air Lines
- EVA Air
- British Airways
- Qantas Airways
- Lufthansa
- Virgin Atlantic
- Saudi Arabian Airlines
- STARLUX Airlines
- Air Canada
- Iberia
US carriers fail to make top 20
The absence of U.S. airlines in the majority of Skytrax awards merits a closer look. However, two U.S. carriers made a mark: Delta Air Lines won the award for Best Airline Staff Service in North America, and JetBlue Airways was recognized as the sixth Best Regional Airline for 2025. This regional category typically includes airlines with mostly domestic flights and limited international options.
Aviation expert Anton Radchenko, founder of the air passenger rights company AirAdvisor, commented on the issue, stating, “This isn’t just a ranking problem. It’s a reputation and business problem.” He noted that the failings of U.S. airlines to reach the top echelon stem from prioritizing profits over delivering a meaningful travel experience. The stark difference in passenger expectations seems to play a crucial role here.
Reports indicate that major U.S. airlines have been generating substantial revenue from what are often termed “sky-high junk fees”—additional charges for amenities like checked bags and seat selections. A Senate report released in 2024 revealed that these additional fees, particularly seat reservation fees, generated around $12.4 billion for major carriers between 2018 and 2023.
Radchenko further emphasized the shift in passenger expectations, suggesting that international travelers and American consumers alike are looking beyond merely punctual flights. “Travelers may not buy tickets based on awards, but they feel the difference, and they vote every day with their wallets and loyalty,” he added. The implication is clear: unless U.S. airlines enhance their overall traveler experience, they may continue to find themselves at a disadvantage on a global scale.
