European airlines continue to redefine air travel. This list of the top 10 European airlines in 2024, according to the World Airline Awards by Skytrax, highlights the best in service, comfort, and innovation. Whether you are an avid traveler or an aviation enthusiast, get ready to discover which carriers are leading the skies in Europe.

10. Austrian Airlines

Austrian Airlines
Photo by Louis

Austrian Airlines is loved for its warm hospitality besides its top-quality onboard meals. With its hub in Vienna, this airline is the perfect gateway for travelers exploring Central Europe.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A320neo5
Airbus A320-20029
Airbus A3216
Boeing 767-300ER3
Boeing 777-200ER6
Boeing 787-92
Embraer 19517
Total68

9. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Photo by Jeffry Surianto

Founded in 1919, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is the world’s oldest airline still in operation. It is known for its friendly service, modern fleet, and a global network connecting Europe to major cities worldwide.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A321neo2
Airbus A330-2006
Airbus A330-3005
Boeing 73742
Boeing 777-200ER15
Boeing 777-300ER16
Boeing 78723
Boeing 747-400BCF1
Boeing 747-400ERF3
Total113

8. Finnair

Finnair Aircraft
Photo by Wolfgang Weiser

Finnair combines sleek Scandinavian design with excellent service. It’s popular for its routes between Europe and Asia, offering a smooth and efficient flying experience.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A319-1005
Airbus A320-20010
Airbus A321-20015
Airbus A330-3008
Airbus A350-90017
ATR 72-50012
Embraer E19012
Total79

7. Lufthansa

Lufthansa Aircraft
Photo by Andrew Cutajar

Lufthansa is Germany’s largest airline and a symbol of efficiency. It offers extensive routes, reliable service, and a focus on sustainability, making it a top choice for business and leisure travelers alike.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A319-10039
Airbus A320-20049
Airbus A320neo35
Airbus A321-10017
Airbus A321-20037
Airbus A321neo17
Airbus A330-3009
Airbus A340-30017
Airbus A340-60010
Airbus A350-90027
Airbus A380-8008
Boeing 747-4008
Boeing 747-8I19
Boeing 787-95
Total297

6. Virgin Atlantic

Photo by Anna Zvereva

Virgin Atlantic stands out with its stylish branding, friendly crew, and Upper Class suites. Its premium economy is also highly rated, offering comfort and great value for long-haul flights.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A330-3008
Airbus A330-9007
Airbus A350-100012
Boeing 787-917
Total 44

5. Iberia

Iberia‘s transatlantic flights connect Europe with Latin America like no other. Its all-Airbus fleet, eco-friendly initiatives, and comfortable seating make it a favorite for international travelers.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A319-1006
Airbus A320-20013
Airbus A320neo17
Airbus A321-20011
Airbus A321XLR1
Airbus A330-20014
Airbus A330-3008
Airbus A350-90022
Total92

4. British Airways

British Airways
Photo by Jeffry Surianto

As one of Europe’s most recognized airlines, British Airways combines tradition with modern service. Passengers enjoy comfortable cabins, wide route options, and excellent customer service, especially in its Club World business class.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A319-10029
Airbus A320-20053
Airbus A320neo26
Airbus A321neo15
Airbus A350-100018
Airbus A380-80012
Boeing 777-200ER43
Boeing 777-300ER16
Boeing 787-812
Boeing 787-918
Boeing 787-1011
Total253

3. Swiss International Air Lines

Swiss International Air Lines
Photo by Joerg Mangelsen

Swiss International Air Lines offers Swiss precision and luxury. Known for its punctual flights, modern fleet, and high-quality onboard meals, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a premium experience.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A220-1009
Airbus A220-30021
Airbus A320-20011
Airbus A320neo8
Airbus A321-1003
Airbus A321-2003
Airbus A321neo4
Airbus A330-30014
Airbus A340-3004
Boeing 777-300ER12
Total89

2. Air France

Air France Aircraft in the airport
Photo by Magda Ehlers

With a perfect mix of French elegance and top-tier service, Air France provides a luxurious travel experience. Passengers enjoy fine dining, modern aircraft, and excellent customer care, making it a leader in European aviation.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft ModelIn Service
Airbus A220-30040
Airbus A318-1006
Airbus A319-10010
Airbus A320-20036
Airbus A321-1004
Airbus A321-20011
Airbus A330-20011
Airbus A350-90035
Boeing 777-200ER18
Boeing 777-300ER43
Boeing 787-910
Boeing 777F2
Total226

1. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines, top ranked European carriers.
Photo by Kürşat Kuzu

Turkish Airlines, the largest carrier in Europe, offers flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. Known for its excellent in-flight entertainment, comfortable seating, and award-winning business class. It is a top choice as it provides exceptional travel experience for both long-haul and short-haul flights.

Fleet Information:

Aircraft TypeIn Service
Airbus A319-1006
Airbus A320-20016
Airbus A321-20066
Airbus A321neo53
Airbus A330-20013
Airbus A330-30036
Airbus A350-90024
Boeing 737 MAX 824
Boeing 737 MAX 95
Boeing 737-80040
Boeing 737-900ER15
Boeing 777-300ER34
Boeing 787-923
Airbus A310-300F3
Airbus A321P2F3
Airbus A330-200F10
Boeing 777F8
Total379

Leave a comment

You might also like:


Discover more from Aviation for Aviators

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Leave a comment