You don’t have to hate that flight across continents. Cattle calls and slimy seat-back trays are what many people think of when they consider long, international flights but some airlines — the best ones — are turning those very expectations on their heads. Whether you’re traveling to Asia, Europe, or anywhere that takes friendly chats with strangers out of the equation for six hours plus (and perhaps 12-plus), getting your flight choices down can transform a journey you dread into one that you actually look forward to.
Long-haul flights are the ultimate testing ground of an airline. The mask comes off when people are stranded at 35,000 feet for ten hours. That’s when seat comfort, food quality, entertainment choices and the friendliness of the crew start to count. This guide separates out the seven airlines that continue to offer premier experiences on those marathon flights, so you can arrive in your destination feeling rejuvenated rather than completely wilted.
What It Takes to Make a Long-Haul Flight Actually Feel Pleasant
Before we get to the rankings, though, let’s discuss what separates a great long-haul experience from a miserable one. It’s not even just one whiz-bang feature — it’s how everything integrates.
Seat Quality and Space: Leg room is everything. Airlines with at least 32 inches of pitch in economy give your knees some breathing space. The seat width, recline angle and cushioning also factor into whether you’re sleeping or squirming for hours.
In Flight Entertainment: A strong entertainment system with hundreds of movies, TV shows, games and music can keep boredom at bay (pun totally intended). Responsive touchscreens and current content libraries stave off boredom.
Food and Beverage Service: You don’t have to serve five-star cuisine at 40,000 feet, but airlines should consider a thoughtful selection of fresh ingredients, a variety of meal selections and an attempt to accommodate people with special dietary needs. Regular snacks and drinks given throughout the day also contribute to this.
Cabin Crew Warmth: Smiling and responsive crew, flight attendants serving us in no time to assist. The really great crews anticipate passengers’ needs before they’re even asked.
Recent Aircraft: Newer aircraft, such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350 have better air pressure, humidity and quieter cabins. This helps to overcome jet lag and fatigue.
Singapore Airlines: The Gold Standard
Singapore Airlines has consistently ranked highest in satisfaction surveys for years, and with good reason. The attention to detail hits you even before one of their long-haul flights takes off.
Their Economy Class seats on newer planes offer 32 to 34 inches of legroom, plus handsome lumbar support. The KrisWorld entertainment system now features over 1,000 options of the latest and greatest including new releases from Hollywood, Asian and European cinema as well as specially-curated music playlists. Every screen is responsive and gorgeous.
But what makes Singapore Airlines truly memorable is the food. They team up with world-renowned chefs to create menus that actually taste good at altitude. Instead of plastic utensils, you’ll receive real silverware. Vegetarian, vegan and all religious dietary requirements get singled out for special attention. Even the Singapore Sling cocktails served in economy are a luxe touch.
The crew’s reputation for being both warm and professional is not hype, it’s reality. They know your name, they check up every so often without getting in the way, and if something goes wrong they’ll walk the extra mile. Their training is industry renowned.
Best Routes: Singapore to Los Angeles, Singapore to London, Singapore to Sydney
Fleet highlights: The newest cabin product (which has better air quality, larger windows) — A380 and A350 or Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Qatar Airways: Middle Eastern Excellence
Qatar Airways is known for its high level of luxury, even in economy — and it’s taking that reputation to a new extreme. With a Doha-based hub, they are convenient for flights connecting between continents and the layover in Hamad International Airport is not too bad.
The Oryx One entertainment system is extensive featuring more than 4,000 options. You can watch, listen or play your way through even the longest flights. Seats in economy have solid padding and a decent recline though leg room depends on the aircraft type — try and fly with them on an A350 or 777.
Qatar scores with its catering all round. That means hot towels before meals, real appetizers and main courses with some satisfying options, all followed by desserts that don’t taste like cardboard. They are especially good with choices of Middle Eastern and Indian food. The in-flight coffee service is significantly better than most airlines.
One quirk is the free eco amenity kit on ultra-long flights, containing socks, eyeshades, earplugs and a toothbrush kit. These small, but good touches give you the feeling of being valued.
Best Routes: Doha to New York, Doha to Melbourne, Doha to Tokyo
Pro Tip: Though their Qsuite business class offering is a game-changer, whether you’re flying economy or one of the Q suites, the experience is great across the board.
Emirates: Big Planes, Big Comfort
Emirates made a splash by going all in on the Airbus A380 superjumbo, and if you are a passenger, that big bet pays off in the form of extra space. The airline’s hub and spoke model through Dubai is particularly effective when connecting Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas.
The entertainment system (ICE) is fabulous – more than 5,000 channels of content, including live TV for news and sport. The device supports even phone calls and text messages via onboard WiFi. The screens are among the biggest in economy class, and the interface couldn’t be easier to use — even for those tech-challenged travelers out there.
Emirates does not cut portions of food small. Food is substantial and complimentary bar service lasts the duration of the flight. Snacks between meals are plentiful, and flight attendants make their way down the aisles with water bottles regularly. The multi-ethnic cabin crew collectively speaks scores of languages.
Seat comfort on the A380 is decent with 32-33″ of pitch. The upper deck of the A380 feels more spacious and less noisy. Their 777s are not bad, though a bit more tight.
Best Routes: Dubai to Los Angeles, Dubai to London, Dubai to Sydney
Special Feature: The onboard First Class shower spas on A380s are the stuff of legend, but passengers at the back in economy also get to experience that superior ride sensation courtesy of these giant planes which make for a quieter and smoother flight.
Japan Airlines (JAL): Understated Perfection
Japan Airlines personifies the Japanese attitude toward service — precise, considerate, humble. They are not the loudmouths of self promotion, but what they do speaks volumes.
The MAGIC entertainment system is a decent international and Japanese offering, with some very good anime if that’s your thing. Screens are bright and responsive. Even in economy, there are noise-canceling headphones at every seat.
Service consistency is where JAL really stands out. The cabin staff carry out their jobs exactly and with real courtesy. They are there ahead of you, they refresh the cabin regularly throughout the flight, and manage requests smoothly. You are revived with pre-landing oshibori (hot towels) service prior to arrival.
The Japanese meals on JAL are always a highlight (bento style, actually good ingredients and properly presented). Western choices are also on offer, and they’re surprisingly decent. The green tea range is great. They also take allergies and dietary restrictions into account if you let them know in advance.
Seat comfort is on par with other airlines, featuring comfortable cushioning and headrests that adjust to avoid the head-bobbing sleep. Their 787 Dreamliners are very nice with the larger windows and better cabin pressure.
Best Routes: Tokyo to San Francisco, Tokyo to London, Tokyo to Bangkok
Cultural Sensation: The unique Japanese concept of hospitality (omotenashi) is interwoven into each service which provides a refreshingly soothing feeling, even when the flight is full.
ANA All Nippon Airways – The Other Japanese Jewel
Often overshadowed by JAL, ANA offers just as solid a long-haul experience with its own unique influences. They excel especially in trans-Pacific routes.
The entertainment system features lots of Japanese content plus Hollywood fare. The airline offers amenity kits in economy on long flights, complete with things like lip balm, toothbrush and earplugs in a reusable pouch.
ANA’s food game is strong and offers both traditional and international options. Their “Taste of Japan” menu features regional specialties that vary with the seasons. Its presentation is Instagram-worthy even in economy. Beer, wine, and sake are free-flowing.
The cabin crew are the epitome of Japanese efficiency and courtesy. They are there when you need them and not when you don’t, keeping the cabin in spotless condition. Bathrooms are kept clean even on 14-hour flights, which is no small thing.
Their 787s and 777s offer decent headrest support and recline. The cabin environment is quiet and accentuated with mood lighting that does wonders for your body clock.
Best Routes: Tokyo to New York, Tokyo to Frankfurt, Tokyo to Sydney
Frequent Flyer Bonus: ANA belongs to the Star Alliance, meaning you can earn and redeem miles flying on a massive selection of partner airlines.
Lufthansa: European Reliability
Lufthansa is German efficiency for long-haul flying. Though they don’t boast the glitzy image of Middle Eastern or Asian carriers, they offer reliable quality that regular travelers value.
Their entertainment system is decent with a combination of European and international variety. The channels do well for the basics. USB charging ports are found even in economy.
Lufthansa’s catering mirrors European tastes with big meals and good bread (it is a German airline, after all). Excellent selection of wines, including very good European wines. They’re accommodating of special meal requests, as long as you pre-order.
The crew may be at times more businesslike than warmly personal, but they are professional and responsive. Service is prompt, and German punctuality will land you there on time.
Seats are reasonably comfortable, with about 31 inches of pitch on most long-haul airplanes. The A380 and 747-8 are the best experience due to more space and quieter cabins. Their new 787s are great too.
Best Routes: Frankfurt to New York, Munich to Singapore, Frankfurt to Buenos Aires
Hub Advantage: Frankfurt and Munich are good connection airports with decent lounges if you have access.
Air New Zealand: The Long-Haul Innovator
Air New Zealand is creative about long-haul comfort in ways that other airlines have not even thought of. They introduced features that are now industry conventions and have not stopped pushing the envelope.
Their option in economy, the Skycouch, allows you to purchase a row of three seats and make them into a flat surface — great for couples or families traveling with small children. Even standard economy seats have decent cushioning and 32-33 inches of pitch on long-haul Boeing 787s and 777s.
Entertainment is extensive with New Zealand, Australian and international content. Easy to install, easy to use. WiFi on most long-haul flights is available so you can stay connected.
Food is better than average and features a Pacific Rim touch. Great use of fresh ingredients, and they are well equipped for various dietary requirements. There’s a great New Zealand wine list — an opportunity to try bottles you can’t find everywhere.
The Kiwi cabin crew engage you with friendly banter and a sense of humor. They are casual but professional, which relaxes the atmosphere. The airline has had a series of viral hits with its creative safety videos.
Best Routes: Auckland to Los Angeles, Auckland to London, Auckland to Tokyo
The Innovation Leader: They are testing lie-flat bunks in economy for ultra-long flights, continuing to think outside of the box.
Comparative Table: Our Favorite Features Compared in One Place
| Airline | Legroom (Economy) | Entertainment Channels | Amenity Kit (Economy) | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore Airlines | 32-34 inches | 1,000+ | Select routes | Book the Cook meal series |
| Qatar Airways | 31-34 inches | 4,000+ | Ultra-long routes | Qsuite privacy |
| Emirates | 32-33 inches | 5,000+ | Yes | A380 upper deck |
| Japan Airlines | 31-34 inches | 800+ | Yes | Japanese hospitality |
| ANA All Nippon Airways | 31-34 inches | 800+ | Yes | Seasonal Japanese menus |
| Lufthansa | 31 inches | 800+ | No | European efficiency |
| Air New Zealand | 32-33 inches | 1,000+ | Yes | Skycouch innovation |
Choose Your Fighter: What Are the Most Important Things to You?
It really depends on what you are looking for in an airline, and where you’ll be flying to.
For a Smooth Experience: Singapore and Qatar are flying high with their consistently slick service from touchpoint to touchpoint.
For Entertainment Junkies: Emirates has the greatest variety of content, but you won’t exactly go bored with any of these airlines.
Best for Foodies: JAL and ANA offer delicious Japanese food, with Singapore Airlines serving a diverse selection of international grub.
For Innovation: Air New Zealand rethought passenger comfort with features like the Skycouch.
For Reliability: You can always count on Lufthansa for no-frills, dependable quality.
For Value: Shop deals closely — sometimes these high-end carriers offer such aggressive promotions that they can be a surprisingly affordable choice compared with budget competition.
For more tips on booking the best flights, visit Call to Flights.
Booking Tips to Maximize Comfort
Even on the best airlines, savvy booking is everything.
Pick Your Plane: See which aircraft serves your route. Newer 787s, A350s and A380s are more comfortable than older 777s or 747s.
Seat Selection Matters: Use SeatGuru.com to find the optimal seats on your particular aircraft. Exit-row and bulkhead seats offer more legroom, but there are trade-offs for those advantages — like less ability to recline or no under-seat storage.
Book Early: The best economy spots are taken quickly. Booking a few months in advance allows better selection.
Explore Upgrade Opportunities: Some airlines have paid upgrade auctions or mileage upgrades to premium economy, which can go a long way in making your journey more comfortable.
Sign Up for Loyalty Programs: Even if you don’t fly all that often, signing up for the airline’s program is usually free and may earn you priority boarding or a better seat selection.
One Last Thought: Comfort Is Worth It
Long-haul flights don’t have to be endurance tests anymore. With these seven airlines, you can even emerge relatively human after economy class if an airline has invested in the passenger experience.
The top airline for you varies depending on your route, budget and personal priorities. Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways both consistently provide the best all-around experience. Emirates’s entertainment and A380 comfort are strong. Japan Airlines and ANA offer tailored, soothing Japanese service that is entirely one of a kind. Lufthansa provides reliable European efficiency. Air New Zealand has a way of being creative.
Do some homework, compare prices on these carriers through your specific route and don’t assume the cheapest will work out to be cheapest in the end. Money well spent for 12 hours done right. Your body and mind will thank you when you arrive ready to enjoy your destination rather than needing two days to recover from the trip itself.
The sky is really not even close to being the limit when you’re flying on an airline that actually cares about you and your comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a long-haul flight?
A long-haul flight commonly refers to any flight that lasts six hours or longer. Ultra-long-haul flights, for their part, are those which exceed 12-14 hours, like Singapore to New York or Perth to London. Such extended periods of time make comfort-related features especially crucial.
Is premium economy on long-haul flights worth it?
Premium economy typically costs 50-100% more than standard economy for a fair amount more legroom (generally about 38-42 inches), wider seats, additional recline, upgraded food service and priority boarding. For flights of more than 10 hours, such comfort may be considered money well spent by many travelers.
What can I do to get better sleep on long flights?
Get a window seat so you can rest your head against the wall of the plane, carry a good neck pillow, wear comfortable clothes that will keep you warm and don’t overdo caffeine and alcohol while in flight — stay hydrated and possibly bring melatonin. Flying on airlines with newer airplanes (787s, A350s) also is beneficial because they have better cabin pressure and humidity.
Do these airlines have special meals?
Yes, all seven airlines offer special meals for vegetarians and vegans, gluten-free diets, kosher meals, halal requirements or anything else. You will need to order special meals at the time of your reservation or book them no later than 24-48 hours prior to departure through the airline’s website or customer service.
What airline has the best in-flight entertainment system?
Emirates is at the top, with plans to offer more than 5,000 channels on its ICE system; Qatar Airways trails it, with over 4,000 options in Oryx One. But Singapore Airlines, ANA, JAL and Air New Zealand all have extensive entertainment selections of 800-1,000+ choices to suit most passengers.
Are these expensive airlines to fly on?
Not necessarily. Although they are premium carriers, they often offer competitive promotions. Prices can vary widely depending on the route, season and when tickets are purchased. Check their prices and compare them with budget long-haul carriers — the price differential can occasionally be as little as $50–100, a comfort upgrade worth not even thinking twice about.
How do these airlines differ from budget long-haul carriers?
Budget carriers like AirAsia X or Norwegian have lower base fares, but they tack on fees for checked bags, choosing seats, meals and entertainment. Full-service airlines include these amenities. Over the span of a 12-hour flight, the cost difference pales in comparison to the comfort gap.
Do I get frequent flyer miles on these airlines?
Yes, they are all part of major airline alliances (Star Alliance, Oneworld or SkyTeam) or have a partnership agreement. You can earn and redeem miles on both networks, and both of these airlines are good options for building balances.
What is the best airline for families with children?
Air New Zealand’s Skycouch is terrific for traveling families with infants and toddlers. Singapore Airlines and Emirates are also standouts for child-friendly entertainment, kids meals and attentive service. Japan Airlines and ANA are very family-focused in their service.
How early should I make a booking for long-haul flights?
The “sweet spot” is usually two to six months before you travel for international flights. Booking more than 12 months out or less than a month out usually results in expensive fares. Enable price alerts on flight comparison sites so you can monitor when the prices drop for your route.
