14 Best Economy Class Airlines in 2025
- Almosafer
- May 28
- 7 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Economy class used to mean sacrificing comfort for cost, but not anymore. In 2025, airlines are dramatically upgrading their economy class cabins, offering improved legroom, in-flight entertainment, and a more enjoyable passenger experience. Whether you're travelling across continents or booking a budget flight, your choice of airline can make or break your trip.
These airlines offer exceptional value, even in the most affordable seats.
In this blog:
Detailed information table of the best 14 Ranking Economy Class Airlines
Detailed Overviews of the 14 airlines
8 of the Cheapest Premium Economy Flights in 2025
FAQS
Final Thoughts
Best Premium Economy Airlines 2025
Below is a quick comparison of the top 14 economy class airlines in 2025.
Click on the name of each airline to jump to a detailed overview.
Rank | Airline | Seat Pitch/Width | Wi-Fi Available | Entertainment Quality | Star Rating (★/5) |
1 | 32” / 18” | Yes (Free/Paid) | Excellent | 4.8 | |
2 | 31–33” / 18.5” | Yes (Paid) | Excellent | 4.7 | |
3 | 32” / 17.5” | Yes (Free for members) | Outstanding | 4.6 | |
4 | 34” / 17” | Limited | High | 4.5 | |
5 | 33” / 18.5” | Yes (Paid) | Excellent | 4.5 | |
6 | 31–33” / 18” | Yes (Free) | Very Good | 4.4 | |
7 | 33” / 18” | Yes (Paid) | Good | 4.4 | |
8 | 31–33” / 17.5” | Yes (Paid) | Excellent | 4.4 | |
9 | 32” / 18” | Limited | Good | 4.3 | |
10 | 31–33” / 17.8” | Yes (Paid) | Good | 4.3 | |
11 | 32” / 18.5” | Yes (Paid) | Very Good | 4.2 | |
12 | 31” / 17” | Yes (Paid) | Very Good | 4.2 | |
13 | 31” / 17.5” | Yes (Paid) | Good | 4 | |
14 | 31–32” / 17.2” | Yes (Paid/Free Msg) | Good | 4 |
14 Airlines with the Best Economy Class – Detailed Overviews
Each airline offers unique strengths, whether you’re flying short-haul or long-haul.
Overview: Flag carrier of Singapore, known globally for excellence.
Seat Comfort: Plush seats with 32” pitch and adjustable headrests.
In-Flight Entertainment: 1,800+ options on KrisWorld.
Wi-Fi: Available (free messaging + paid full access).
Meals: Asian and international cuisine crafted by gourmet chefs.
Amenities: Pillow, blanket, headphones, and optional amenity kit.
Overview: Five-star airline based in Doha, repeatedly ranked #1 worldwide.
Seat Comfort: Varies slightly by aircraft, but generous overall.
In-Flight Entertainment: The Oryx One system is rich in options.
Wi-Fi: Available for purchase.
Meals: Multi-course meals even in economy; special dietary options.
Amenities: Soft pillows, blankets, and basic kits on long-haul flights
Overview: One of the largest and most luxurious airlines globally. Seat Comfort: Slightly narrow but comfortable for long-haul. In-Flight Entertainment: The best in the world (ICE system). Wi-Fi: Free for Skywards members; paid for others. Meals: Regional dishes, generous portions. Amenities: Amenity pouch, pillow, blanket.
Overview: Japan’s largest airline, known for its precision, cleanliness, and excellent service.
Seat Comfort: Exceptional 34” seat pitch with adjustable headrests and footrests on most long-haul aircraft.
In-Flight Entertainment: ANA SKY Channel with a solid Japanese and international content mix.
Wi-Fi: Limited across the fleet; available on newer aircraft with paid plans.
Meals: Focus on healthy, regional Japanese meals, plus international options.
Amenities: Pillow, blanket, headphones; slippers sometimes provided on long-haul flights.
Overview: A top-tier Japanese airline praised for its customer service and roomy cabins.
Seat Comfort: Among the best, up to 18.5” width, with generous recline and lumbar support.
In-Flight Entertainment: MAGIC entertainment system, clean interface with English and Japanese content.
Wi-Fi: Paid service on most international routes.
Meals: Gourmet Japanese and Western meals, beautifully plated—even in economy.
Amenities: Soft blanket, pillow, noise-reducing headphones.
Overview: Based in Istanbul and growing fast, Turkish Airlines connects more countries than any other carrier.
Seat Comfort: 31–33” pitch and decent width, with recline better than average.
In-Flight Entertainment: High-definition screens with 500+ movies/shows.
Wi-Fi: Free for business and frequent flyer members; available to economy passengers with a paid plan.
Meals: Full hot meals on even short international flights; often praised for quality and freshness.
Amenities: Blanket, pillow, and headphones provided on most flights.
Overview: Taiwan’s EVA Air has quietly built a reputation for premium comfort and service.
Seat Comfort: 33” pitch and cushioned seats make it one of the most comfortable in Asia.
In-Flight Entertainment: Star Gallery system—limited in Western content but improving.
Wi-Fi: Available on newer aircraft for a fee.
Meals: Healthy, well-balanced Asian meals; fresh fruit often included.
Amenities: Pillow, blanket, and hygiene kits on long-haul flights.
Overview: Based in Abu Dhabi, Etihad focuses on style and innovation in both design and service.
Seat Comfort: Ergonomically designed with adjustable headrests, 31–33” pitch.
In-Flight Entertainment: E-BOX system with a wide selection of languages and genres.
Wi-Fi: Paid access with tiered packages for light to full usage.
Meals: Varied regional cuisine and good vegetarian options.
Amenities: Soft furnishings and basic amenity kits provided.
Overview: One of Asia’s legacy carriers with a strong safety record and traditional service values. Seat Comfort: Comfortable 32” pitch with footrests on many aircraft. In-Flight Entertainment: AVOD (Audio Video on Demand) system with Korean and international content. Wi-Fi: Still limited fleet-wide but being rolled out gradually. Meals: Korean bibimbap is a staple; Western meals are available too. Amenities: Pillow, blanket, and headphones included.
Overview: Known for quirky safety videos and excellent service, especially on Pacific routes.
Seat Comfort: 31–33” pitch with “Skycouch” option for extra comfort.
In-Flight Entertainment: Touchscreen system with a strong collection of recent films.
Wi-Fi: Available on most international aircraft, paid per hour or flight.
Meals: Locally sourced meals with New Zealand wines.
Amenities: Blanket and pillow standard; headphones provided.
Overview: Hong Kong’s flagship carrier, famous for its consistent quality and understated elegance.
Seat Comfort: 32” pitch and good recline; newer cabins feature sculpted seatbacks.
In-Flight Entertainment: StudioCX system with a strong mix of Hollywood and Asian content.
Wi-Fi: Available for a fee on most long-haul aircraft.
Meals: High-quality meals with a focus on freshness and presentation.
Amenities: Pillow, blanket, and headphones; basic amenity kits on longer routes.
Overview: Germany’s largest airline and one of the most recognised in Europe.
Seat Comfort: Standard 31” pitch with fair recline and clean, structured layout.
In-Flight Entertainment: Individual screens with solid options in multiple languages.
Wi-Fi: Paid service via FlyNet—available on most intercontinental flights.
Meals: Efficient and well-prepared, often featuring German dishes.
Amenities: Blanket, pillow, and headphones.
Overview: One of the world’s oldest carriers, with solid transatlantic service.
Seat Comfort: 31” pitch with reasonable recline; newer aircraft offer slightly wider seats.
In-Flight Entertainment: Updated systems with touch navigation and subtitle options.
Wi-Fi: Paid, but some flights offer free messaging.
Meals: Dutch and international dishes with eco-conscious packaging.
Amenities: Blanket, pillow, and earbuds provided.
Overview: One of the “Big Three” U.S. carriers, now focusing heavily on customer upgrades.
Seat Comfort: 31–32” pitch with memory foam cushions on many aircraft.
In-Flight Entertainment: Excellent selection via Delta Studio, available gate-to-gate.
Wi-Fi: Paid internet access and free messaging on most flights.
Meals: Complimentary meals on long-haul international flights; snacks and drinks are generous.
Amenities: Pillow, blanket, and earbuds for longer flights.
Read more:
8 Cheapest Premium economy flights in 2025
Looking for a little more comfort without paying business-class prices?
These airlines are known for offering some of the best-value premium economy fares.
Turkish Airlines
Known for offering excellent value for money, especially on flights between Europe and Asia.
They offer hot meals and free Wi-Fi on some flights.
EVA Air
Offers competitive fares on flights between Asia and North America.
Known for excellent customer service and comfortable seats.
Korean Air
Offers affordable fares on flights between Asia and North America.
They offer traditional Korean meals and excellent service.
Japan Airlines
Known for providing high-quality service at affordable prices, especially on flights between Japan and North America.
They offer spacious seats and sumptuous meals even in economy class.
Singapore Airlines
Offers competitive fares on flights between Asia and Europe.
Known for excellent customer service and an advanced entertainment system.
Qatar Airways
One of the best airlines in terms of service, Qatar Airways offers affordable fares on long-haul flights.
They offer comfortable seats and in-flight Wi-Fi.
Emirates
Offers a luxurious economy class travelling experience at competitive prices.
It is known for its advanced entertainment system and varied meals.
Etihad Airways
Offers affordable fares on flights between the Middle East and Asia or Europe.
They offer comfortable seats and excellent customer service.
FAQS: Choosing the Best Airline with Premium Economy 2025
Q: Which airline has the best overall economy class?
A: Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways remain the top picks for overall comfort, service, and experience.
Q: What is the best airline's premium economy?
A: Japan Airlines and Singapore Airlines offer exceptional premium economy, featuring wider seats and more amenities.
Q: Are meals still included in economy class?
A: Yes, on most international carriers. Low-cost or regional airlines may offer meals as add-ons.
Q: What should I prioritise when booking economy class?
A: Seat pitch/width, in-flight entertainment, and Wi-Fi access—especially on long-haul flights.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right airline in 2025 means balancing comfort, budget, and the overall passenger experience. With economy cabins evolving rapidly, flying smart is no longer just about price—it’s about knowing which airlines offer premium value, even in their most basic seats.
Whether you’re booking a quick city hop or a long-haul international journey, these 15 airlines prove that “economy” doesn’t have to mean “basic”.
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