In 2025, cleanliness in air travel remains a top priority for passengers, especially in the post-COVID era, with travelers valuing hygiene and safety. The Skytrax World Airline Awards, based on passenger surveys from September 2024 to May 2025, rank the cleanest airlines globally, assessing cabin cleanliness, including seats, tray tables, carpets, and lavatories. Asian carriers dominate the top 10, with Cathay Pacific Airways leading the pack. These airlines excel in rigorous cleaning protocols, advanced air filtration, and passenger comfort, setting the standard for hygiene in 2025. This article explores the top 10 cleanest airlines and their efforts to ensure pristine cabins in 2025.
1. Cathay Pacific Airways, Hong Kong
Cathay Pacific Airways, based in Hong Kong, claims the title of the world’s cleanest airline in 2025, with a Skytrax cleanliness score of 92.1. Operating 200 aircraft to over 200 destinations, Cathay Pacific implements rigorous cleaning protocols, disinfecting high-touch surfaces after every flight. In 2025, its HEPA filters refresh cabin air every 2–3 minutes, removing 99.97% of particles. With 85% of passengers praising cabin hygiene, Cathay’s commitment to cleanliness, paired with its fifth-place ranking as the best overall airline, makes it a leader in 2025.
2. ANA All Nippon Airways, Japan
ANA All Nippon Airways, Japan’s largest airline, ranks second in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 90.8. Based in Tokyo, ANA’s 250 aircraft undergo nightly deep-cleaning, with cabin crew trained in mid-flight hygiene practices under the slogan “Let’s quickly wipe.” In 2025, its HEPA-filtered cabins and 80% renewable cleaning products ensure a fresh environment. ANA’s 88% passenger satisfaction rate for cleanliness and its top ranking for airport services solidify its reputation as a hygiene leader in 2025.
3. EVA Air, Taiwan
EVA Air, based in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, secures third place in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 89.5, having topped the list in previous years. Operating 80 aircraft, EVA Air’s rigorous cleaning includes disinfecting seats and entertainment screens between flights. In 2025, its HEPA filters and frequent air exchanges maintain cabin freshness, earning an 87% satisfaction rate. EVA’s focus on hygiene, combined with its fourth-place ranking for cabin crew, makes it a top choice for health-conscious travelers in 2025.
4. Qatar Airways, Qatar
Qatar Airways, based in Doha, ranks fourth in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 88.2. Operating 200 aircraft to 150 destinations, Qatar’s cabins are cleaned after every flight, with high-touch areas disinfected using eco-friendly products. In 2025, its modern fleet, averaging five years old, features HEPA filters, and 85% of passengers praise its hygiene. As the world’s best overall airline in 2025, Qatar’s luxury and cleanliness make it a standout for international travelers.
5. Singapore Airlines, Singapore
Singapore Airlines, fifth in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 87.6, is renowned for its premium service and hygiene. Operating 140 aircraft, its cabins are cleaned thoroughly between flights, with crew maintaining lavatories mid-flight. In 2025, HEPA filters and 90% biodegradable cleaning materials ensure a pristine environment, earning an 86% satisfaction rate. Singapore’s second-place ranking for best overall airline and its luxurious cabins make it a hygiene leader in 2025.
6. Asiana Airlines, South Korea
Asiana Airlines, based in Seoul, ranks sixth in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 86.4. Its 80 aircraft undergo deep cleaning nightly, with high-touch surfaces disinfected multiple times per flight. In 2025, Asiana’s HEPA filters and eco-conscious cleaning products contribute to an 84% passenger satisfaction rate. The airline’s focus on hygiene, paired with its attentive service, positions it as a strong contender among Asian carriers in 2025.
7. Hainan Airlines, China
Hainan Airlines, based in Haikou, China, ranks seventh in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 85.9. Operating 200 aircraft, Hainan’s cleaning protocols include disinfecting galleys and seats after every flight. In 2025, its HEPA-filtered cabins and 80% renewable cleaning materials earn an 83% satisfaction rate. Hainan’s sixth-place ranking for cabin crew and growing international network make it a rising star in cleanliness and service in 2025.
8. Japan Airlines, Japan
Japan Airlines (JAL), based in Tokyo, ranks eighth in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 85.3. Its 130 aircraft are cleaned rigorously, with crew maintaining lavatories during flights. In 2025, JAL’s HEPA filters and eco-friendly disinfectants ensure a fresh cabin, earning an 82% satisfaction rate. JAL’s sixth-place ranking for best overall airline and its omotenashi hospitality make it a trusted choice for hygiene-conscious travelers in 2025.
9. China Airlines, Taiwan
China Airlines, based in Taipei, ranks ninth in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 84.7. Operating 90 aircraft, its cleaning protocols include disinfecting tray tables and armrests between flights. In 2025, HEPA filters and 75% sustainable cleaning products maintain cabin hygiene, with an 81% satisfaction rate. China Airlines’ focus on passenger comfort and its role as Taiwan’s flag carrier enhance its reputation for cleanliness in 2025.
10. Korean Air, South Korea
Korean Air, based in Seoul, rounds out the list in 2025 with a cleanliness score of 84.2. Its 170 aircraft undergo thorough cleaning, with high-touch areas disinfected frequently. In 2025, HEPA filters and eco-friendly products ensure a fresh environment, earning an 80% satisfaction rate. Korean Air’s 11th-place ranking for best overall airline and its modern fleet make it a reliable choice for hygiene-focused travelers in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, Cathay Pacific Airways, ANA All Nippon Airways, EVA Air, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Japan Airlines, China Airlines, and Korean Air lead as the world’s cleanest airlines, with Skytrax cleanliness scores of 84.2–92.1. Dominated by Asian carriers, these airlines excel in rigorous cleaning, HEPA filtration, and eco-friendly practices, earning 80%–88% passenger satisfaction. From Cathay’s pristine cabins to Korean Air’s modern fleet, they set the global standard for hygiene in air travel in 2025.
