In 2025, exceptional airline staff service is a key factor for travelers choosing carriers in South Asia, where hospitality and professionalism elevate the travel experience. Based on the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025, which surveyed over 21 million passengers from September 2024 to May 2025, the top 10 airlines in South Asia excel in delivering outstanding onboard and airport service. Led by Vistara, these carriers are celebrated for their courteous crew, efficient service, and commitment to passenger satisfaction. This article explores the top airlines for staff service in South Asia in 2025, highlighting their achievements and unique offerings.
1. Vistara
Vistara, India’s premier full-service carrier, tops the list for Best Airline Staff in South Asia in 2025, securing this award for the seventh consecutive year. With a fleet of 70 aircraft and a network spanning 50 destinations, Vistara’s staff are lauded for their warmth and efficiency, achieving a 92% passenger satisfaction rate for service. In 2025, Vistara’s cabin crew, trained in personalized hospitality, excel in business and economy classes, offering gourmet meals and complimentary Wi-Fi on international flights. The airline’s focus on staff training and customer-centric policies ensures a world-class experience, making Vistara the gold standard in South Asia in 2025.
2. IndiGo
IndiGo, India’s largest low-cost carrier, ranks second in 2025, with a fleet of over 350 aircraft serving 120 destinations. Known for punctuality and affordability, IndiGo’s staff earn an 89% satisfaction rating for their courteous and efficient service. In 2025, the airline’s crew excel in handling high-volume flights, offering quick assistance and clear communication. IndiGo’s focus on staff training, emphasizing empathy and problem-solving, enhances passenger comfort. The airline’s seamless check-in processes and friendly onboard service make it a top choice for travelers in South Asia in 2025.
3. Air India
Air India, the national carrier of India, secures third place in 2025, with a revitalized fleet of 140 aircraft and a global network. The airline’s staff achieve an 87% satisfaction rating for their professionalism and attentiveness, particularly on long-haul routes. In 2025, Air India’s crew, trained in cultural hospitality, offer personalized service in premium cabins, including curated Indian cuisine. Recent investments in staff development and cabin upgrades have elevated the passenger experience. Air India’s commitment to blending tradition with modern service makes it a standout in South Asia in 2025.
4. SriLankan Airlines
SriLankan Airlines, the flag carrier of Sri Lanka, ranks fourth in 2025, operating 24 aircraft and serving 85% of South Asia with nearly 130 weekly flights. The airline’s staff, known for their signature Sri Lankan hospitality, achieve an 85% satisfaction rating. In 2025, the crew’s warmth and tailored onboard offerings, like localized meals and entertainment, enhance the travel experience. SriLankan’s focus on passenger comfort, especially on routes to India and the Maldives, and its four-star APEX rating make it a beloved carrier in South Asia in 2025.
5. Akasa Air
Akasa Air, a rising Indian low-cost carrier, ranks fifth in 2025, with a fleet of 24 aircraft and a growing domestic network. The airline’s young, enthusiastic staff earn an 84% satisfaction rating for their friendly and proactive service. In 2025, Akasa’s crew focus on customer care, offering complimentary snacks and efficient boarding processes. The airline’s modern fleet and emphasis on staff training in hospitality ensure a pleasant experience. Akasa Air’s innovative approach and warm service make it a strong contender in South Asia in 2025.
6. SpiceJet
SpiceJet, another Indian low-cost carrier, ranks sixth in 2025, operating 60 aircraft across 70 destinations. The airline’s staff achieve an 82% satisfaction rating for their energetic and helpful demeanor. In 2025, SpiceJet’s crew excel in managing budget-friendly flights while maintaining service quality, offering quick assistance and clear communication. The airline’s focus on affordability and staff responsiveness resonates with passengers. SpiceJet’s ability to balance cost and service quality makes it a popular choice in South Asia in 2025.
7. Maldivian
Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives, ranks seventh in 2025, with a fleet of 23 aircraft connecting key South Asian destinations. The airline’s staff earn an 80% satisfaction rating for their warm, island-inspired hospitality. In 2025, Maldivian’s crew provide personalized service, especially on routes to India and Sri Lanka, with tailored in-flight offerings. The airline’s focus on seamless connections to resort destinations and friendly staff interactions enhances its appeal. Maldivian’s unique charm makes it a notable player in South Asia in 2025.
8. Pakistan International Airlines
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) ranks eighth in 2025, operating 33 aircraft across 50 destinations. PIA’s staff achieve a 78% satisfaction rating for their courteous and professional service, particularly on international routes. In 2025, the airline’s crew offer culturally rich hospitality, including Pakistani cuisine and attentive care. Despite operational challenges, PIA’s focus on staff training and passenger comfort strengthens its reputation. The airline’s connectivity across South Asia and the Middle East makes it a valued carrier in 2025.
9. Air India Express
Air India Express, a low-cost subsidiary of Air India, ranks ninth in 2025, with a fleet of 80 aircraft serving budget travelers. The airline’s staff earn a 77% satisfaction rating for their efficient and friendly service. In 2025, Air India Express’s crew focus on quick turnarounds and clear communication, ensuring smooth travel experiences. The airline’s affordable fares and reliable service resonate with passengers. Air India Express’s commitment to cost-effective travel and staff responsiveness makes it a strong contender in South Asia in 2025.
10. airblue
airblue, a Pakistani low-cost carrier, rounds out the list in 2025, operating 12 aircraft across domestic and regional routes. The airline’s staff achieve a 76% satisfaction rating for their approachable and efficient service. In 2025, airblue’s crew excel in providing hassle-free travel, with a focus on passenger comfort and punctuality. The airline’s modern fleet and emphasis on staff training enhance its appeal. airblue’s affordability and reliable service make it a popular choice for travelers in South Asia in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, Vistara, IndiGo, Air India, SriLankan Airlines, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, Maldivian, Pakistan International Airlines, Air India Express, and airblue lead South Asia in airline staff service, earning passenger satisfaction ratings from 76% to 92%. These carriers, recognized in the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025, excel in hospitality, efficiency, and cultural engagement, enhancing the travel experience across the region. From Vistara’s premium service to airblue’s budget-friendly reliability, these airlines set the standard for exceptional staff performance in South Asia in 2025.
