It has long been one of humanity’s aspirations to soar in the skies. Although today flying is routine—whether by private jet or international air routes—it was once merely an ambition and an inspiring idea until the late nineteenth century.

If one were to identify a symbol of technological progress that transformed modern life, especially in transportation, the aircraft would undoubtedly stand among the most prominent. Moreover, this remarkable invention (or “flying machine,” as early inventors called it) developed through a long and complicated path filled with setbacks. Its realization resulted from relentless innovation, risky experimentation, and particular political, economic, and social conditions that allowed aviation to advance.

Most people have heard of the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, whose names are now inseparable from the invention of controlled powered flight. However, the airplane was not the work of a single moment. Instead, it evolved through years of ideas, prototypes, research, and contributions from countless inventors and enthusiasts. Each of them played a role—large or small—in shaping the concept we know today.

After air travel became widely accepted, numerous airports and aviation hubs emerged worldwide. Consequently, airlines expanded rapidly and began offering a wide range of services to passengers. Over the years, these carriers have continuously upgraded their operations to improve comfort, safety, and customer satisfaction.

The article below explores the top airlines of 2024, offering helpful insights to keep you informed.

Prominent Airlines in 2024

Every year, new airlines rise in reputation and influence. As a result, aviation companies work hard to enhance customer satisfaction and strengthen their global presence. The following sections highlight the best airlines in 2024.

1. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is one of the most renowned airlines in the world. Many travelers choose it for global routes connecting Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Moreover, it provides exceptional service and comfort.

It ranked first in 2024.

2. Singapore Airlines

In 2024, Singapore Airlines remained one of the most prestigious carriers globally. Although relatively young compared to others, it consistently offers world-class service and an exceptional travel experience.

It ranked second in 2024.

3. ANA All Nippon Airways

ANA is the largest airline in Japan. Founded in 1952, it now serves more than 80 routes. In addition, it is a key member of Star Alliance with major hubs in Tokyo, Haneda, and Narita.

It secured the third position in 2024.

4. Cathay Pacific Airways

Based in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific flies to more than 200 destinations. It connects Asia, Europe, and the Americas, bringing global regions closer together. Furthermore, it is an affiliate member of the Global Alliance.

It ranked fourth in 2024.

5. Emirates

Established in 1985 with only two aircraft, Emirates now operates over 230 planes and more than 1,500 weekly flights. It links Asia, Europe, and America with world-class service.

In 2024, it ranked fifth.

6. EVA Air

Launched in 1989, EVA Air has become one of the major global airlines and a Star Alliance member. It connects Asia with Europe and North America through efficient global routes. Additionally, it is rated as a five-star airline and was named the world’s safest airline in January 2018.

Its main routes include: Zhengzhou, Jinan, Ningbo, Kuala Lumpur, Lahore, Penang, Perth, Colombo, Delhi, Calcutta, Brisbane, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Macau, Hanoi, Johannesburg, Yangon, San Francisco, Phnom Penh, Phuket, and Seattle.

It ranked sixth in 2024.

7. Hainan Airlines

Founded in 1993, Hainan Airlines now operates more than 400 aircraft. It serves Asia, Europe, and America and is the fourth-largest airline in China as well as the tenth-largest in Asia. Its main hubs include:

• Beijing
• Haikou
• Xi’an
• Shenzhen

It ranked seventh in 2024.

8. Qantas Airways

Established in 1920, Qantas is Australia’s largest domestic and international carrier. Its main hub is based in Australia, and it continues to maintain strong global operations.

It ranked eighth in 2024.

9. Lufthansa

Founded in 1953, Lufthansa is now Germany’s largest airline and a key member of Star Alliance. Its central hubs are Frankfurt and Munich.

It ranked ninth in 2024.

10. Thai Airways

Founded in 1988, Thai Airways operates more than 90 flights to 84 destinations across 37 countries. Moreover, it is also a Star Alliance member.

It ranked tenth in 2024.

Most Popular Airlines in the World (2024)

Many travelers focus on which airlines are most widely used. In 2024, the most popular carriers were:

• American Airlines Group
• Delta Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• United Airlines

Worst-Rated Airlines in 2024

According to global reviews and major travel platforms, the lowest-rated airlines in 2024 were:

• SKY Express (Greece)
• Air Mauritius (Mauritius)
• TAROM (Romania)
• IndiGo (India)
• Pegasus Airlines (Turkey)
• Bulgaria Air (Bulgaria)
• Nouvelair (Tunisia)
• Buzz (Poland)
• Tunisair (Tunisia)

Concluding Remarks

This article presented essential information about the top airlines of 2024. With these insights, you can now make better decisions when choosing an airline for global travel. For further details, please visit each airline’s official website.

Gateway Logistics Message

Dear Valued Customers,

For better rates and competitive offers for door-to-door rail and trucking services from China to Europe, please contact our sales team. Your request will be carefully assessed, and support will be provided based on your requirements.

Are These Airlines Expensive?

Not necessarily. Costs depend on the type of service. Economy class usually offers the lowest fares, while first class is the most expensive.