Skytrax Top Premium Economy Airlines 2025

Skytrax’s 2025 list spotlights the world’s leading premium economy airlines.

Skytrax released its 2025 ranking of the top 10 premium economy airlines, noting strong representation from European and North American carriers. The report highlights how airlines are doubling down on comfort, service and product innovation to differentiate premium economy from standard economy on long-haul and transcontinental routes.

Rather than a single statistic, Skytrax evaluated a mix of passenger feedback and audit criteria covering seating, onboard service, meal quality, inflight entertainment, and ground perks. The result shows ongoing competition among Western operators to capture travelers who want more space and perks without the full business-class price tag.

What Skytrax looked for in premium economy

The ranking focused on measurable improvements that passengers notice: seat width and legroom, recline and footrests, upgraded dining, and dedicated cabin service. Consistent cabin standards, amenity kits, and priority boarding also influenced scores. These elements combined to define the modern premium economy experience in 2025.

Seat comfort in premium economy (legroom, recline and cushioning)
Service quality: dedicated cabin crew and improved meal service
Inflight entertainment and connectivity on long-haul aircraft
Ground benefits: priority boarding, dedicated check-in, and baggage handling
Cabin layout and privacy improvements that make premium economy feel distinct

For travelers, premium economy now sits clearly between standard economy and business class: better value for longer flights, and a strategic product for airlines aiming to boost revenue without sacrificing accessibility. Carriers are also using aircraft interior refreshes and new seat suppliers to widen the gap between economy and premium economy offerings.

Expect airlines to keep iterating on premium economy through 2025 and beyond as demand for a higher-comfort, mid-price option remains strong. Travelers choosing premium economy should look at seat maps, exact seat dimensions, and bundled ground services when comparing options across carriers.