Choosing the right airline for long-haul flights is key to a comfy and fun trip. With many options, picking the best can be tough. This article will look at the top airlines for long-haul flights. They stand out for their spacious seats, comfort, and great service.
Key Takeaways
- Airlines that prioritize passenger comfort and satisfaction on long-haul flights
- Carriers offering the most spacious and well-appointed economy class seating
- Top-rated airlines for long-haul economy class across different regions
- Factors to consider when choosing an airline for international travel
- Insights from industry experts and traveler reviews
Spacious Economy Seating: Airlines Leading the Way
Flying economy on long trips often means giving up comfort. But, some airlines offer decent space and comfy seats in regular economy. JetBlue’s Airbus A321 planes for transatlantic flights are a great example. They have 32 inches of legroom, 18 inches of seat width, and 3 inches of recline in the « Core » economy section. You’ll find adjustable headrests and power outlets, but the single-aisle design might mean less room to move.
JetBlue Airbus A321
JetBlue is a top choice for economy comfort. Their Embraer 190 planes have economy seats with at least 39 inches of legroom. Plus, the seats are wide, measuring between 17.8 and 18.25 inches, making for a comfy flight.
Other airlines are also improving economy seating. Japan Airlines offers 34 inches of legroom and 19 inches of seat width in their « Sky Wider » economy seats. They won the Best Economy Seat award at the 2018 Skytrax World Airline Awards. Singapore Airlines also has the widest economy seat and 32 inches of legroom.
Air New Zealand takes it up a notch with 33 inches of legroom in economy and the option to turn seats into « couches » for more space. Emirates offers 32-34 inches of legroom and 18-inch seat width, plus a big 13.3-inch screen for entertainment.
The economy class experience varies by airline, but these leaders show it’s possible to have a comfy and roomy journey in standard economy. By focusing on passenger comfort, they’re setting new standards for economy travel on long flights.
Airlines Prioritizing Comfort on Long-Haul Flights
Long-haul flights are getting longer, and airlines are focusing on making economy class more comfortable. They’ve added new features and designs to make the trip better for those on long flights.
Japan Airlines’ Airbus A350-1000 has 34 inches of legroom and over 18 inches wide seats in economy class. These seats also recline more and come with big entertainment screens, water bottle holders, and charging ports. This makes flying more comfortable and convenient for passengers.
All Nippon Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners also focus on comfort. They have 34-inch legroom, 17.3-inch seat width, footrests, and adjustable seat pans. These features give economy-class passengers more space and let them adjust their seats for comfort during long flights.
« Airlines are recognizing the importance of prioritizing passenger comfort, even in the economy class, as travelers demand more from their in-flight experience on long-haul routes, » said aviation industry expert, Sarah Wilson.
These new cabin designs and amenities show the airline industry’s effort to improve the travel experience. They aim to meet the changing needs and wants of economy class passengers on long-haul flights.
Best Airlines for Long-Haul Economy Class
Several airlines are top choices for long-haul economy class in different regions. In Asia, ANA and JAL are known for their great food, service, and amenities like real silverware in economy. Across the Atlantic, Turkish Airlines is a top pick in Europe, offering good connections, meal service, and new aircraft. For North American travelers, Delta Air Lines has upped its economy class game, providing better service and amenities than some rivals.
Asia: ANA & JAL
ANA’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners offer 34 inches of legroom, over 17 inches of seat width, footrests, and standard recline in economy. Japan Airlines’ Airbus A350-1000 has about 34 inches of legroom, over 18 inches of seat width, and a deeper angle for seating before reclining. Both ANA and JAL are famous for their attentive service and quality meals in long-haul economy class.
Europe: Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines is a top choice for long-haul economy travel in Europe. It offers good connections, quality meal service, and a fleet of mostly new aircraft. Aegean Airlines has 30 economy class seats on Airbus A321 with 18-inch seat width. Turkish Airlines is known for its comfortable and value-packed economy experience.
North America: Delta Air Lines
For North American travelers, Delta Air Lines has improved its economy class a lot in recent years. The airline now offers better service and more amenities than some competitors. Delta’s Economy Plus seats give up to seven more inches of legroom for a more comfy journey. While basic economy tickets have limits, Delta’s standard economy is a favorite for long-haul flights.
Top-Rated Airlines for Long-Haul Flights
AirlineRatings.com has named the best airlines for long flights in 2024. These include Air France, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand, Qatar Airways, and Air Canada. They were picked for their safety, customer reviews, and modern fleets. This site is a top source for airline ratings and reviews, helping travelers find the best long-haul flights.
Air New Zealand took the top spot in the Airline Excellence Awards 2023. Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways were right behind. Singapore Airlines was at the top of the Skytrax 2023 list, followed by Qatar Airways and ANA All Nippon Airways. Emirates and Japan Airlines also made the top five, showing their dedication to great passenger experiences.
Turkish Airlines is known for flying to over 120 countries and recently bought 10 Airbus A350 jets. Qatar Airways was named Skytrax Airline of the Year 2022, proving it’s a top choice for long flights. These airlines offer comfy seats, modern entertainment, and great service. They are the best picks for travelers looking for a great long-haul trip.
FAQ
What are the best airlines for long-haul flights?
Finding the best airlines for long-haul flights is key for travelers looking for comfort and value. This article will compare top carriers to help readers find their ideal airlines for international travel.
Which airlines offer spacious economy seating on long-haul routes?
Long-haul flights often mean less comfort, but some airlines offer decent space and comfy seats. JetBlue’s Airbus A321 planes for transatlantic routes have 32 inches of legroom, 18 inches wide, and 3 inches of recline in economy. They feature adjustable headrests and power outlets, but the single-aisle design might mean less elbow room.
Which airlines prioritize passenger comfort on long-haul flights, even in economy class?
Some airlines focus on making long-haul flights more comfortable, even in economy. Japan Airlines’ Airbus A350-1000 has 34 inches of legroom and over 18 inches wide seats in economy. They offer deep recline, large screens, water bottle holders, and charging ports. All Nippon Airways’ Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners also give 34 inches of legroom, 17.3 inches of width, and have built-in footrests and sliding seat pans for more space.
Which are the best airlines for long-haul economy class in different regions?
In Asia, ANA and JAL are top choices for their quality food, excellent service, and amenities like real silverware in economy. Turkish Airlines is a great option in Europe, known for good connections, meal service, and new aircraft. For North American travelers, Delta Air Lines has improved its economy class with better service and amenities compared to others.
What are the top-rated airlines for long-haul flights?
According to AirlineRatings.com, the best long-haul airlines for 2024 include Air France, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand, Qatar Airways, and Air Canada. These airlines were chosen for their safety ratings, passenger reviews, new fleets, and key product offerings. AirlineRatings.com is a trusted source for airline rankings and reviews, offering insights for travelers looking for the best long-haul flights.