World’s best airlines for first class, ranked by passengers and standout suites

How the rankings were decided

Skytrax, an aviation rating company, gathered passenger satisfaction survey responses from travelers representing more than 100 nationalities. The survey ran from September 2025 through August 2026 and informed the 2026 World Airline Awards ranking.

The ranking comes as airlines enhance premium services to attract higher-paying passengers. Amenities among the listed carriers include private suites, lie-flat beds, curated meals and dedicated onboard spaces.

Air France leads the list

Skytrax named Air France the best airline for first-class travel. Its La Première suite measures nearly 38 square feet, and meals are created by Michelin-starred chefs. Singapore Airlines placed second. Its first-class suites can fit a bed and reclining chair, and two suites can be joined to form a double for two people.

Comfort across other carriers

Cathay Pacific offers first-class suites with 600-thread-count sheets, BOSE noise-canceling headphones and an extensive wine selection. Swiss International Air Lines provides armchairs that convert into lie-flat beds, pajamas designed by Zimmerli of Switzerland and Cuvée Louise Champagne from Maison Pommery.

Japan Airlines’ Airbus A350-1000 first-class suites include double beds, headrests with built-in speakers, wardrobes and 43-inch TVs. ANA offers sliding-door suites, lie-flat seats and meals featuring sashimi, wagyu beef and miso soup.

Qantas passengers can use armchair seats with in-seat massages, along with a self-service bar and lounge. Qatar Airways’ amenities include à la carte dining, Diptyque amenity kits and loungewear from The White Company.