AirlineRatings.com, the world’s only safety and product rating website, has announced Korean Air as its Airline of the Year for 2024.

The World’s Best Airline Awards are determined based on feedback from travelers, expert editor reviews, overall product choice and consistency for passengers, innovation, and forward fleet orders. Safety is a key consideration, with only seven-star safety-rated airlines eligible, and financial stability is also factored in—airlines undergoing restructuring, mergers, or bankruptcy are not considered.

AirlineRatings.com CEO Sharon Petersen stated, "These awards are not a popularity contest or a people’s choice award. As airline experts, we conduct a meticulous assessment of each category to help travelers identify the best airlines for quality, value, and safety."

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On Korean Air being this year’s winner, Petersen said:
"In reviewing this year’s awards, we placed particular emphasis on Economy Class, as it is where most passengers travel. While many airlines have added a 10th seat per row on 777 aircraft and reduced seat pitch in economy to 31–32 inches (down from the previous 32–33 inches), Korean Air has chosen not to follow this trend. They have maintained their original seat configuration and a generous 33-34 inch seat pitch, offering passengers a more comfortable experience.”

Along with Japan Airlines, Korean Air provides the most spacious economy class seating of any airline in the world, with a seat pitch of 33–34 inches on all wide-body aircraft. On narrow-body 737 aircraft, Korean Air offers a 32–34 inch seat pitch, which is rare in today’s industry. Passengers on medium- to long-haul flights are also treated to thoughtful touches, such as slippers, larger meal portions compared to most other airlines, and an improved selection of in-flight entertainment over recent years.

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Petersen continued, “While the airline’s Business and First Class products are highly regarded for their exceptional meals, efficient service, and comfort, it was Korean Air’s outstanding Economy Class offering that truly secured their win. We consistently receive feedback about the lack of space in Economy Class, so it was only fitting to make this a major factor in selecting this year’s award winner."

AirlineRatings' recognition of Korean Air extends beyond passenger experience to the airline's demonstrated business strength and future readiness. The judges noted the carrier's groundbreaking merger with Asiana Airlines – the largest consolidation in Asian aviation history – as a factor in their decision. 

With a competitive average fleet age of 10.7 years, Korean Air has demonstrated strong commitment to operating modern, fuel-efficient aircraft. This is reinforced by significant aircraft commitments, including orders for 50 Boeing Widebodies (777X and 787s), 33 Airbus A350s, and 26 Airbus A321neos. These investments were viewed as clear indicators of the airline's long-term commitment to maintaining a competitive product offering. 

In choosing Korean Air as the Airline of the Year for 2025, AirlineRatings highlights the airline's unwavering commitment to exceptional passenger experiences through comfort, service and innovation. A further example of this will be the launch of their Premium Economy Product. As other carriers continue to prioritize capacity over passenger experience, Korean Air demonstrates how airlines can balance efficiency with an exceptional passenger experience and strong business fundamentals.