Here are the world’s most popular airlines. The latest category sees them reward the world’s best airlines on metrics such as performance improvement in various award categories within the rest of the lists published by the global rankings and ratings organization.

For travelers who felt they weren’t treated well by airlines in the past, this list promises to be of particular interest as it will help them determine whether to give their previous choices another shot.

With that, let’s take a look at those who made it into the top 10 in the World’s Best Airlines category of Skytrax’s awards.

Here’s the World Most Improved Airlines

1. STARLUX Airlines (JX/SJX)

Over the past year, STARLUX Airlines has transformed from a newcomer to a shining star in the skies. In June 2025, it earned its first 5-Star Airline rating from Skytrax — an impressive feat for such a young carrier.

Focusing on the little things that matter, like warm, attentive service, beautifully designed cabins, and menus that feel more like fine dining than just formal, has worked wonders.

STARLUX has also expanded its fleet with new Airbus aircraft, keeping the planes young, modern, reliable, and incredibly quiet. And in Business Class, passengers now enjoy lie-flat seats, 4K screens, and thoughtful touches that feel less luxurious on long haul flights.

2. ITA Airways (AZ/ITY)

Over the past year, ITA Airways has started to find its feet not just as Alitalia’s replacement. It is becoming an airline with its own identity, now also backed by the Lufthansa Group. ITA has developed into yet another attractive connection for travellers, especially through its Rome hub.

The fleet is getting a refresh too, with new A330‑900s and A350s replacing older planes. The service is more genuine, with a touch of Italian class that does not feel exaggerated.

The investment in a more robust hard product means ITA already boasts a leading European cabin. While there is still a long way to go, the strides taken last year deserve a lot of credit.

3. HK Express (UO/HKE)

Once seen as just Hong Kong’s budget airline, HK Express is becoming a more well-run airline.

Over the past 12 months, a lot of time and money has been invested in giving the airline its own identity and improving its on-board service. In addition, with a growing network in Japan, South Korea, and mainland China, it is becoming a leading option for regional travel.

The fleet is being upgraded to Airbus A320neos and Airbus A321neos, which is also playing its part at HKE. They are also investing heavily in AI to improve the overall customer service experience away from the aircraft and airports.

What remains an affordable low-cost carrier now comes with a much better overall feel.

4. Eurowings (EW/EWG)

Over the past year, Eurowings has grown into a more trustworthy airline. Once seen as a no-frills option, it’s now getting the basics right – flights that run on time, staff who are more customer-oriented, and a travel experience that feels far less stressful.

The airline’s also thinking long-term. Newer, quieter aircraft are already making flights more comfortable and eco-friendly, with a full fleet refresh on the horizon.

And with proper business class also on offer now on the longer sectors, Eurowings has earned its place as one of the world’s most improved airlines.

5. Egyptair (MS/MSR)

Egyptair has taken huge strides towards becoming an airline that travellers can feel confident flying on. Once just the cheapest option that people would opt for, it now has a strong structure prioritising Egyptian hospitality with modern upgrades.

Flights feel more comfortable thanks to new, quieter Airbus A350s and 737 MAX aircraft, while on the ground, things run more smoothly with faster check-ins and friendlier staff.

Egyptair was recently named Africa’s Most Improved Airline, along with winning praise for its cabin crew and economy meals. Though it is nowhere close to Ethiopian, one of its biggest rivals in the region, just yet, there are things worth crediting Egyptair for.

6. Air Japan (NQ/AJX)

Backed by All Nippon Airways, Air Japan is offering a very reliable and refreshingly well-thought-out experience, synonymous with the carrier’s home culture.

The routes are smart, connecting Tokyo to Bangkok, Seoul, Singapore, and so many other Asian hubs. A good network clubbed with a minimalistic approach makes Air Japan a worthy option for those who are not too fussed about the luxuries of flying.

The experience is also worth the price. The Boeing 787s are fresh and comfortable, with decent legroom, charging ports, and seats that don’t feel low-cost. The crew are polite and hospitable, and even the in-flight meals are appetising.

7. MIAT Mongolian Airlines (OM/MGL)

Over the past year, MIAT Mongolian Airlines has taken some exciting steps forward. The arrival of new Boeing 787 Dreamliners has brought a sense of modernity, making long-haul flights to places like Frankfurt and Istanbul a lot more comfortable.

MIAT has also focused exponentially on growing its domestic operations and serving regional areas of the country. Once underserved cities are now connected to the country’s capital with more frequent flights, which opens the door to other destinations around the globe.

Once a small carrier, MIAT is now taking strides to become a global name.

8. Discover Airlines (4Y/OCN)

Once seen mainly as Lufthansa’s laid-back holiday offshoot, Discover Airlines now feels like an airline that’s finding its voice. Its network has grown, connecting German cities to places like Orlando, Windhoek, and Calgary, giving travellers more choice at reasonable prices.

Onboard, there’s a visible shift in quality. Premium economy has been invested in with real glassware, porcelain plates, and thoughtful touches like a cheese course, while even economy passengers are treated to bamboo cutlery and a more considered meal.

New in-flight tech, like 4K screens and Bluetooth pairing, is also on the horizon. With leisure travel slowly trumping business journeys, Discover is a player to watch out for.

9. Air Greenland (GL/GRL)

Air Greenland is still very small and tied to its polar roots, but it has made itself more visible lately. The opening of Nuuk’s new international airport was a turning point, and Air Greenland has taken full advantage.

New routes, like direct flights to Iqaluit and Danish cities, make it feel like Greenland is now a lot more accessible than it was a few months ago.

Their new A330neo brings quiet comfort to long journeys, but what stands out is the airline’s willingness to put passengers at the heart of it all. Some Redditors have even called Air Greenland one of the most hospitable carriers they’ve come across.

Air Greenland’s efforts to blend its local culture with leading hospitality, all while growing sustainably, have been inspirational.

10. Cebu Pacific (5J/CEB)

Cebu Pacific is growing into an enviable leisure carrier, while giving its local full-service rival, Philippine Airlines, a real run for its money.

Their strategy of targeting major cities around the world to connect to vacation hotspots in the Philippines and the rest of Asia has made them not only a popular, affordable carrier but also an option for travelers from all walks of life.

A modern fleet has helped the airline remain cost-effective, while recent investments have played a role in improving the overall customer experience.