US airlines are too busy losing luggage to compete. Let’s break down Travel + Leisure’s 2024 rankings – where Asian and Middle Eastern carriers redefine what flying should feel like.
The Unfiltered Top 10
- 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines
Secret: Book “Premium Economy” for 40% cheaper business-class legroom. Thank me later. - 🇫🇷 La Compagnie
Hack: All-business-class NYC-Paris flights. $3k roundtrip vs. $14k on Delta. - 🇦🇪 Emirates
Flex: First-class showers at 40,000ft. 25-minute water limit. Pack fast. - 🇯🇵 All Nippon Airways
Move: Japanese whisky tastings mid-flight. Flight attendants bow when you clap. - 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways
Reality: Qsuites business class has closing doors. Mile-high naps, not mile-high club. - 🇰🇷 Korean Air
Tip: Pre-order bibimbap. Served in actual stone bowls. No plastic nonsense. - 🇯🇵 Japan Airlines
Win: 787s have 34″ economy seats. American Airlines? 30″. Your knees matter. - 🇹🇭 Thai Airways
Comeback: New Airbus A350s. Bangkok-London with 0% interest payment plans. - 🇦🇪 Etihad Airways
Splurge: “The Residence” suite has butler + double bed. Costs more than your rent. - 🇹🇼 EVA Air
Quirk: Hello Kitty jets. Entire plane themed – safety video included. Embrace it.
Why These Airlines Humiliate US Carriers
- Space matters: Japan Airlines’ economy legroom = Delta Comfort+
- Food isn’t punishment: Korean Air’s bibimbap beats $17 Delta snack boxes
- Tech that works: Emirates’ WiFi actually streams Netflix
Cost Comparisons That Hurt
| Route | Singapore Airlines | Delta |
|---|---|---|
| NYC-Frankfurt | $1,200 (Premium Economy) | $1,800 (Economy) |
| Meals | Book the Chef (Free) | $9.50 snack boxes |
| Baggage | 2 free checked bags | $75 first bag |
FAQs
“Is La Compagnie really worth it?”
Yes. All-business-class means no screaming babies. $3k transatlantic lie-flat seats can’t be beat.
“What about safety?”
Qatar hasn’t had a fatal crash since inception. Southwest had 16,700+ cancellations in 2022 alone.
“Best for budget travelers?”
EVA Air’s economy class. 32” legroom + free STARRY soda. United gives you 30” + $4 Pringles.
Bottom Line
Your next long-haul flight shouldn’t feel like punishment. These airlines prove comfort doesn’t require a trust fund.
Action step: Google “[Airline] + award availability”. If you see “Waitlist” – that’s your cue to book fast.
