How to Choose the Right Airline for You (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

6 Jun

When planning your next trip, whether it’s for leisure or work the airline you choose can shape the entire journey. It’s not just about getting from A to B. The right airline can offer comfort, better transit options, unexpected perks, and even cost savings if you know how to plan ahead.

In this post, we’ll walk through how to choose the right airline, why routes and stopovers matter, what perks to look out for, and when to book your flights to get the best value.

1. What Do You Value Most in an Airline?

The best airline for you depends on your travel priorities. Ask yourself:

Is comfort your top priority?
Do you prefer inflight entertainment and meals?
Are you collecting frequent flyer miles?
Do you want flexible cancellation or change policies?

If comfort is key, full-service airlines like Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, and ANA are often worth the splurge. If budget matters most, carriers like AirAsia or Jetstar might do the trick but be prepared to pay extra for baggage, meals, seat selection and potential delayed flights.

2. Why Route and Transit Choices Make a Big Difference

Choosing the Right Flight Route

Sometimes the best airline isn’t the one flying direct. Instead, it’s the one offering the best connection, layover perks, or newer aircraft. Choosing a slightly longer route via a major hub can give you access to better service, cleaner airports, and a smoother overall journey.

For example: Flying from Johannesburg to Tokyo via Doha with Qatar Airways can be a more comfortable and cost-effective option than a direct flight with limited amenities.

Transit Layovers: Hidden Perks

Transit airports can enhance your trip, if you pick the right ones. Some international carriers and airports offer perks for long layovers:

Turkish Airlines: Free city tours for layovers over 8 hours in Istanbul
Qatar Airways: Complimentary hotel stays for qualifying connections in Doha
Singapore Airlines: Access to award-winning lounges at Changi Airport and free city tours.

Strategic layovers can turn travel time into rest time or even bonus sightseeing.

3. Airline Perks You Should Look Out For

Each airline has its own mix of offerings. Before you book, compare the following:

Baggage allowance (especially for international trips)
Inflight meals and drinks
Seat configuration and legroom
Free Wi-Fi and power outlets
Loyalty programmes and airline alliances
Flexible ticket policies and cancellation terms

Some of the top-rated airlines for overall economy perks include Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, EVA Air, and Emirates. They consistently rank well for customer service, inflight experience, and cleanliness.

4. Should You Book Flights in Advance or Last Minute?

Book in Advance If:

You’re flying during a peak season (like December Holidays, Eid, Summer in Europe, Chinese New Year)
You have a tight schedule or connecting bookings
You want to select your seat or lock in upgrades

The sweet spot for international bookings is usually 8–16 weeks in advance. This gives you access to competitive fares before prices rise closer to departure.

Book Last Minute If:

You’re flexible with your dates or destination
You’re flying short-haul or regionally
You’re looking for potential flash sales or mistake fares

While budget airlines sometimes drop prices last-minute, it’s risky especially if you need checked bags or seat selection.

5. Best-Rated Airlines by Region and Cabin Class (2025)

Here’s a breakdown of the top-rated airlines in each region, by class of service. Use this when choosing an airline for your next trip:

Asia-Pacific

First Class - Singapore Airlines: Ultra-private suites, fine dining, and award-winning service.

Business Class - ANA (All Nippon Airways): Excellent seat comfort, omakase-style meals, and top-tier hospitality.

Premium Economy - Japan Airlines: Spacious seating with upgraded meal service and extra baggage.

Economy - Singapore Airlines: Great legroom, attentive service, and excellent entertainment.

Middle East

First Class - Emirates: Private suites, onboard showers (on A380), and elevated dining experiences.

Business Class - Qatar Airways (Qsuite): A standout for privacy, comfort, and personalised service.

Premium Economy - Emirates: One of the most luxurious premium economy cabins launched in recent years.

Economy - Qatar Airways: Consistently high ratings for seat space, service, and meals.

Europe

First Class - Lufthansa: Elegant ground services, premium lounges, and refined inflight offerings.

Business Class - Swiss International Air Lines: Clean design, efficient service, and gourmet cuisine.

Premium Economy - Virgin Atlantic: Known for comfort, cabin design, and excellent customer service.

Economy - KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Dependable service with solid inflight entertainment.

North America

First Class - American Airlines Flagship First: Available on select international routes with lie-flat seating.

Business - Class Delta One: Stylish cabins, direct aisle access, and curated dining.

Premium - Economy Air Canada: Spacious seats, better food, and included amenities.

Economy - JetBlue: More legroom, free Wi-Fi, and seat-back entertainment on most aircraft.

Africa

First Class - EgyptAir: One of the few African carriers offering First Class, with full reclining seats on selected long-haul routes.

Business Class - Ethiopian Airlines: Strong performance on international routes with flatbed seating and lounges.

Premium Economy - Limited availability: Most African airlines currently don’t offer a separate premium economy cabin.

Economy - RwandAir: Modern aircraft, friendly staff, and excellent service on regional flights.

South America

First - Class Rare: Most South American carriers do not offer First Class.

Business - Class LATAM Airlines: Strong international presence with flatbeds, good connectivity, and lounge access.

Premium - Economy Avianca: A reliable choice on regional flights with improved seat pitch and service.

Economy - Azul Brazilian Airlines: Highly rated for service quality, snacks, and entertainment.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Flight Work for You

Choosing the right airline means looking beyond the cheapest ticket. It’s about finding the sweet spot between value, comfort, and convenience. Take the time to consider your preferred route, stopovers, and the overall travel experience you want.

Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, managing a group trip, or just hopping between cities, the airline you choose can transform the way you travel.

Bevan Antonie