Sick of low-cost let-downs? Europe’s best airlines for 2025 revealed

Tired of low-cost disappointments? Europe’s top airlines revealed for 2025

They may be the airlines that bring millions of tourists to Spain each year, but Ryanair and Jet2, Vueling, and easyJet do not appear in the ranking of Europe’s top airlines.

Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025, based upon millions of passenger surveys have once again forced the continent’s low cost giants out of the race in favor of full-service carriers.

This year, Turkish Airlines has won the award for best airline. It is praised by many for its global network and excellent onboard catering. 

Air France came in second place, thanks to their premium cabins and lounges. Swiss International Air Lines was third with its reputation for reliability and punctuality.

READ MORE: Spain joins Mediterranean countries in blocking EU restrictions on Russian tourist visas due to ‘economic benefits’

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic were the two favourites on the continent. 

BA rose to the fourth spot on account of its improved long-haul cabins as well as its unmatched international reach. Virgin was praised by critics for its Heathrow Clubhouse lounge and premium economy seats.

Iberia, the Spanish airline, also made it to the list.

Ranked seventh, the Madrid-based flag carrier has built a strong reputation for punctuality and long-haul links to Latin America, and is in the middle of a €6 billion modernisation drive that includes new aircraft and upgraded business class suites.

READ MORESpain prepares to send fighter jets as well as a refuelling aircraft to NATO’s east flank following Russian incursions

All of Europe’s legacy airlines ranked in the top 10, including Lufthansa and KLM. Austrian Airlines, Finnair and Austrian Airlines also scored well on consistency, connectivity and service.

The rankings were compiled from more than 20,000,000 passenger surveys in over 100 different countries. These surveys covered everything from the comfort of seats and cabin crew to cleanliness, food and the overall experience.

Travel News by The Olive Press.


Simply Holiday Bookings

Discover Tailor-Made Tours

Simply Holiday Bookings offers a wide range of personalized vacation experiences.

Book Now

Free Subscribe

Sign up to stay ahead with the latest news straight to your email.

We respect your privacy and will never spam you!

About Louise Brown

Louise Brown is an experienced journalist and travel writer, known for exploring diverse cultures and sharing compelling stories. Her work spans news reporting, human interest, and travel, with a focus on sustainability and responsible tourism.

Check Also

Ryanair threatens more cuts in Spain if government does not block proposed 21% airport tax hike

Ryanair will cut more flights in Spain if the government doesn’t block the proposed 21% airport tax increase

RYANAIR is calling on Spain’s Ministry of Transport, and the CNMC Competition Watchdog to block …