Most expensive airline in the world: Top 10 list ranked

Most expensive airline in the world: Top 10 list ranked

Flying can be an exciting experience and costly if you are looking to fly with the most expensive airlines in the world. These airlines offer a level of luxury that can rival that of a five-star hotel.

Which airline class is the most expensive?
An E-4B National Airborne Operations Center (NAOC) aircraft flies high over the Midwest on a training mission out of Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. Photo: HIGH-G Productions/Stocktrek Images
Source: Getty Images

Some airlines offer an experience beyond getting passengers from point A to point B. Whether you are a frequent flyer or planning a special occasion, knowing the most expensive airlines is crucial so you can plan accordingly. Some wealthy and prominent people prefer to have comfort and luxury while travelling.

Top 10 world's most expensive flights

Some airlines are generally known for offering premium services and luxury experiences with higher price tags. These expensive airlines care greatly about luxurious settings, cleanliness, and hygiene. You also have a chance to travel in style with fully reclining seats, champagne, and other drinking selections. Some of these airlines include:

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1. Etihad Airways

What is the most expensive public airline? Etihad is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and is based in Abu Dhabi. It holds the title of the most expensive commercial flight and one of the prominent carriers in the Middle East. It is known for its premium services and luxurious offerings.

expensive airlines
Some of its features include a private lounge and a lavish suite. Photo: Richard Sharrocks, istockphoto.com
Source: UGC

2. Lufthansa Airways

Lufthansa, commonly known as Lufthansa German Airlines, is the largest airline in Germany and one of the leading carriers in Europe. It provides passengers preferential boarding, limousine service, and caviar course. This airline is also known for its excellent meals.

most expensive airlines
It was founded in 1953 and has evolved to become one of the most respected airlines in the world. Photo: Lukas Wunderlich, istockphoto.com
Source: UGC

3. Singapore Airlines

It is the flag carrier airline of Singapore and is widely regarded as one of the world's top airlines, known for its exceptional service and premium offerings. The airline offers spacious first-class suites, and passengers can enjoy various entertainment options on personal screens, including movies, TV shows, music, games, and more.

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most expensive flight
The airline is notable for highlighting the Singapore Girl as its central figure in the corporate branding segment. Photo: Boarding1Now, istockphoto.com
Source: UGC

4. Cathay Pacific Airways

Cathay Pacific Airways is the flag carrier airline of Hong Kong and is known for its high-quality service and extensive global network. It is well-regarded for its quality of service, premium cabin offerings, and commitment to customer satisfaction. The dining experience is equally remarkable, with gourmet meals and a wide selection of international wines.

most expensive first class flight
It is certified as a 5-Star Airline. Photo: Karol Ciesluk, istockphoto.com
Source: UGC

5. Emirates Airlines

Emirates Airlines is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and is based in Dubai. It is one of the world's largest and most well-known airlines, recognised for its luxury, top-notch service, and extensive global network. Passengers are offered transportation in a BMW ride equipped with leather seats and WiFi.

most expensive commercial flight
Emirates is the world's fourth-largest airline by scheduled revenue passenger-kilometres flown. Photo: Jetlinerimages, istockphoto.com
Source: UGC

6. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is the national airline of Qatar and is considered one of the top-rated airlines in the world. It offers luxurious first-class suites, business-class seats with lie-flat beds, and spacious economy-class cabins. The airline is also known for its exceptional dining experience, emphasising high-quality and diverse meal options.

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world's most expensive flight
It was established by the government of Qatar on November 22, 1993, and operations started on January 20, 1994. Photo by Jan Rosolino, Unsplash.com
Source: UGC

7. British Airways

British Airways (BA) is the flag carrier airline of the United Kingdom and one of the world's largest and most recognised airlines. It is known for its friendly and professional cabin crew, ensuring passengers a pleasant travel experience. The airline also offers skincare products as a welcome gift.

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The airline is the second largest UK-based carrier, based on fleet size and passengers carried, behind easyJet. Photo by Isaac Struna, Unsplash.com
Source: UGC

8. Korean Air

Korean Air is the flagship carrier of South Korea and is one of the largest airlines in Asia. It operates a comprehensive network of domestic and international flights and is well-known for its high-quality service and modern fleet. Passengers are given VIP treatment that includes fantastic meals and attentive staff.

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In 2023, Korean Air was certified a 5-Star Airline by Skytrax, an air transport rating organization. Photo by Miguel Ángel Sanz, Unsplash.com
Source: UGC

9. All Nippon Airways

All Nippon Airways (ANA) is the largest airline in Japan and a prominent carrier in the Asia-Pacific region. It is known for its exceptional service, punctuality, and comprehensive route network. ANA operates premium lounges at airports worldwide, providing eligible passengers with a comfortable and relaxing pre-flight experience.

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What is the most expensive public airline?
ANA has earned a strong reputation as a reliable and customer-focused airline. Photo by Vincent Genevay, Unsplash.com
Source: UGC

10. Virgin Atlantic Airways

Virgin Atlantic Airways is a British airline and part of the Virgin Group. It is known for its innovative approach to customer service, distinctive branding, and unique cabin offerings. Virgin Atlantic's commitment to customer satisfaction has increased popularity among travellers seeking an exceptional and enjoyable flying experience.

Which airline class is the most expensive?
Entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson founded Virgin Atlantic. Photo: CT757fan, istockphoto.com
Source: UGC

Which airline is the cheapest?

The cheapest airline can vary depending on several factors, including the specific route, the time of booking, and the time of travel. Some well-known budget airlines that are often associated with offering lower fares include:

  • Southwest Airlines in the United States
  • Ryanair in Ireland
  • easyJet in the United Kingdom
  • AirAsia in Malaysia
  • IndiGo in India
  • Spirit Airlines in the United States
  • Wizz Air in Hungary
  • Volaris in Mexico
  • Norwegian Air Shuttle in Norway

Which airline class is the most expensive?

The most expensive airline class is typically the First Class or Suites class. First Class is the top-tier cabin class, offering the highest luxury, privacy, and personalised service. It is often available on long-haul international flights and some premium domestic routes.

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Which US airlines are the most expensive?

US airlines are generally known for offering premium services and higher-priced tickets than other carriers. These airlines often provide luxurious amenities and top-notch experiences for their passengers. Some of the US airlines that are considered to be on the higher end of the pricing spectrum include:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines

Above is a list of the most expensive airlines in the world. To travel with the greatest, you must pay a premium price. Choosing an opulent airline can make your vacation more comfortable and relaxing despite the costs involved.

DISCLAIMER: This article is not sponsored by any third party. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!

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Authors:
Bennett Yates avatar

Bennett Yates (Lifestyle writer) Bennett Yates is a content creator with over five years of working experience in journalism and copywriting. He graduated from the University of Nairobi (2017) with a Bachelor's in Information Technology. In 2023, Bennett finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. He started working for Briefly in 2019. You can reach him via email at bennetyates@gmail.com.