The Giants of Aviation: Inside the Most Popular and Worlds Largest Airlines
Marius StefanPublished Updated 16 min read
Airlines connect cities, countries and continents, and carry the international travel, business and tourism that the modern economy depends on. Millions of flights take off and land every year, but not all airlines are equal. Some stand out for fleet size, number of destinations, passenger volume or service.
This guide profiles 50 of the biggest names in the airline industry, from low-cost carriers to full-service airlines: American Airlines' large fleet, Delta's network, Emirates' luxury cabins and more. For each one you will find the home base, fleet and route figures, services, loyalty program and alliance membership. A table ranking airlines by available seat miles follows the profiles.
Top 50 World’s Largest Airlines
1. American Airlines
American Airlines, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the world’s largest airlines by fleet size, destinations and passenger volume. Its fleet of over 900 aircraft serves nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries.
It flies extensive domestic and international routes, with premium cabins for international travelers and economy options for domestic flights. Customers get a mobile app, lounge services and in-flight Wi-Fi. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, which extends its reach through international partners.
2. Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is known for strong customer service and innovation. It operates in over 50 countries with a fleet of more than 800 aircraft, offering many domestic and international flight options.
The airline ranks consistently high for customer satisfaction, with in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi and comfortable seating. Its SkyMiles loyalty program and Delta Sky Club lounges serve frequent flyers. As a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, Delta has partnerships that expand its routes and destinations worldwide.
3. United Airlines
United Airlines, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, has a route network spanning six continents. It operates over 700 aircraft and connects travelers to more than 300 destinations, with broad domestic and international coverage.
Its MileagePlus program is popular with frequent travelers. United has also invested in sustainability, aiming to cut carbon emissions through fuel-efficient technology and sustainable aviation fuel. It is a member of the Star Alliance.
4. Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines, based in Dallas, Texas, is a leading low-cost carrier with a “no-frills” approach. It operates a large fleet of Boeing 737s and serves more than 100 destinations, mostly within the United States.
Pricing is transparent, with no fees for checked bags and no change fees, which sets it apart from many competitors. Open seating and an efficient boarding process keep the experience streamlined. Southwest has built its brand on customer service and affordability, and it is a favorite with budget-conscious travelers.
5. Ryanair
Ryanair, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is Europe’s largest low-cost carrier, with a route network across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It operates over 450 Boeing 737 aircraft and flies to more than 200 destinations.
Its business model relies on cost-cutting, pay-per-service options and secondary airports, which keep its fares among the lowest in the industry. Despite its no-frills reputation, it is a go-to choice for budget-conscious passengers across Europe.
6. China Southern Airlines
China Southern Airlines, headquartered in Guangzhou, is one of Asia’s largest airlines, serving over 200 destinations. Its fleet of more than 600 aircraft connects China to major cities in Asia, Europe, North America and beyond.
It offers cabins from economy to premium, with Mandarin-speaking staff on many routes. China Southern is a member of the SkyTeam alliance.
7. China Eastern Airlines
Based in Shanghai, China Eastern Airlines is one of China’s leading carriers, with a network covering Asia, North America and Europe. It operates over 500 aircraft to more than 200 destinations and offers first, business and economy classes.
In recent years it has modernized its fleet and improved its digital services. As a member of the SkyTeam alliance, it gives travelers connections through its partner network.
8. EasyJet
EasyJet, headquartered in Luton, United Kingdom, is a leading European low-cost carrier focused on affordable, short-haul flights. It connects over 150 destinations, mostly within Europe, with a fleet of over 300 Airbus aircraft.
Known for its orange branding and budget fares, it offers basic amenities and add-on services so customers can adjust the experience to their needs. Its network, frequent flights, streamlined operations and transparent pricing make it a convenient option for budget-conscious passengers.
9. Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines, based in Istanbul, is the national carrier of Turkey. It has one of the most extensive route networks in the world, serving over 300 destinations across six continents.
It is known for in-flight service and quality food, and it operates a modern fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Turkish Airlines is a member of the Star Alliance.
10. Lufthansa
Lufthansa, headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, is one of Europe’s largest airlines. Its fleet of over 300 aircraft connects passengers to destinations across Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa. Amenities include lounges, premium cabins and in-flight entertainment.
It is a founding member of the Star Alliance. Lufthansa also emphasizes innovation, efficiency and environmental responsibility.
11. Air France
Air France, the flagship carrier of France, is headquartered in Paris and operates one of Europe’s most extensive networks. With a modern fleet, it serves over 180 destinations worldwide.
Known for elegant service and French hospitality, it offers classes from Economy to La Première, its first-class product. Air France is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance. On sustainability, it has invested in fuel-efficient aircraft and carbon offsetting programs.
12. Emirates
Emirates, based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is known for its luxurious in-flight experience. With a large fleet of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, it connects passengers to over 150 destinations on six continents.
It is known for spacious cabins, award-winning entertainment and gourmet dining. The airline offers First Class suites, Business Class lounges and Economy seating, making it a top choice for international travelers. Emirates operates independently but has codeshare agreements that improve connectivity, and it is a leader in long-haul travel.
13. British Airways
British Airways, headquartered in London, is the United Kingdom’s largest airline. Its network connects the UK to destinations across Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa.
Its fleet of Airbus and Boeing models offers service classes from Economy to First Class, with in-flight entertainment, dining and lounge access for premium passengers. British Airways is a founding member of the oneworld alliance.
14. Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways, based in Doha, is known for high standards of service and luxury, and is recognized as one of the world’s best airlines. It connects over 160 destinations with a modern fleet.
Its award-winning Qsuite in Business Class offers privacy and comfort, and the airline also aims for a quality economy service. Qatar Airways is a member of the oneworld alliance.
15. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, headquartered in Amsterdam, is the national airline of the Netherlands and one of the oldest airlines still operating under its original name. It is known for reliability and Dutch hospitality, and flies to over 90 countries and nearly 150 destinations.
It offers classes from Economy to Business Class and belongs to the SkyTeam alliance. KLM has also invested in fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions.
16. Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines, based in Singapore, is widely recognized for premium service. Its cabins include the Singapore Suites in First Class.
It operates a modern fleet to more than 60 destinations, mainly in Asia, Europe and North America. The airline has won numerous awards for customer satisfaction, and its KrisFlyer loyalty program is popular with frequent travelers. It is a member of the Star Alliance.
17. Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific, headquartered in Hong Kong, is one of Asia’s premier airlines. Its modern fleet connects travelers to more than 190 destinations worldwide, with a strong emphasis on Asia-Pacific routes.
Service classes range from Economy to First Class. Its Marco Polo Club loyalty program is highly regarded by frequent travelers. As a member of the oneworld alliance, Cathay Pacific benefits from partnerships with other leading airlines.
18. Qantas
Qantas, Australia’s national airline, is headquartered in Sydney and is one of the world’s oldest airlines. Known for its safety record and customer service, it flies to over 85 destinations across Australia, Asia, Europe and the Americas.
Services range from Economy to First Class. Its Qantas Frequent Flyer program is popular with Australian travelers. As a founding member of the oneworld alliance, Qantas works with partner airlines to offer more travel options.
19. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
All Nippon Airways (ANA), based in Tokyo, is Japan’s largest airline and a major player in the Asian aviation market. It is known for safety and service, and connects passengers to over 90 destinations at home and abroad. Its fleet includes modern Boeing and Airbus aircraft, with classes from Economy to First Class.
Its frequent flyer program is the ANA Mileage Club. ANA is a member of the Star Alliance.
20. Japan Airlines (JAL)
Japan Airlines, also known as JAL, is headquartered in Tokyo and is Japan's second-largest airline. It is known for customer service and efficiency, and connects passengers to over 90 destinations, with a focus on routes across Asia, North America and Europe.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy, Business and First classes. JAL is a member of the oneworld alliance.
21. Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and is known for its luxurious in-flight experience. Its modern Airbus and Boeing fleet flies to over 80 destinations across six continents.
Its products include the ultra-luxurious "The Residence" suite, Business Studios and Economy Smart Seats. Etihad is not part of any major airline alliance, but it partners with various international airlines to extend its network.
22. Aeroflot
Aeroflot, based in Moscow, is Russia's flag carrier and one of the oldest airlines in the world. It has an extensive network across Europe and Asia, serves more than 140 destinations and operates a modern fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
It offers classes from Economy to Business and is known for Russian hospitality. Aeroflot is a member of the SkyTeam alliance.
23. Air Canada
Air Canada, headquartered in Montreal, is Canada’s largest airline and a major player in North American and international aviation. It flies to over 220 destinations on six continents, with Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class.
Its loyalty program is Aeroplan. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, Air Canada collaborates with leading airlines globally.
24. Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines, based in Seattle, is a leading carrier on the U.S. West Coast, known for customer service and efficiency. With a fleet of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, it serves more than 115 destinations across the United States, Canada, Mexico and Costa Rica.
It emphasizes friendly service and runs the Mileage Plan loyalty program. Alaska recently joined the oneworld alliance, which expands its network and options across the globe.
25. JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways, headquartered in New York, is a popular low-cost carrier known for customer comfort and service. It flies to over 100 destinations in the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America, and now Europe.
It offers spacious seating, free in-flight Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks and drinks. The TrueBlue loyalty program and Mint premium service on select routes add to the experience for frequent flyers.
26. South African Airways
South African Airways, based in Johannesburg, is South Africa’s national carrier and a key airline connecting Africa to the rest of the world. It flies to over 40 destinations across Africa, plus key cities in Europe, Asia and the Americas.
It offers Economy and Business Class, with comfortable seating and regional cuisine. South African Airways is a member of the Star Alliance.
27. Thai Airways
Thai Airways, headquartered in Bangkok, is Thailand’s national airline, known for service and hospitality. With a fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, it serves over 70 destinations across Asia, Europe and Australia.
Its cabins are Economy, Premium Economy, Business and Royal First Class. Thai Airways is a member of the Star Alliance.
28. Malaysia Airlines
Malaysia Airlines, based in Kuala Lumpur, is the national carrier of Malaysia and a prominent airline in Southeast Asia. It flies to over 60 destinations across Asia, Europe and Australia.
It offers Economy, Business and First Class. Malaysia Airlines is a member of the oneworld alliance.
29. Asiana Airlines
Asiana Airlines, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, is known for safety and service. It focuses on Asia-Pacific and international routes and connects travelers to over 90 destinations, with Economy, Business and First classes.
As a member of the Star Alliance, Asiana is a popular choice for travelers to and from South Korea.
30. Korean Air
Korean Air, also based in Seoul, is South Korea’s largest airline and a major player in global aviation. It serves over 125 destinations worldwide and offers Economy, Prestige (Business) and First Class.
Korean Air is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance.
31. EVA Air
EVA Air, based in Taipei, Taiwan, is known for its service and commitment to safety. It focuses on routes across Asia, North America and Europe and connects travelers to over 60 destinations.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy and Business classes. Its Royal Laurel (Business) Class is aimed at long-haul travelers. EVA Air is not part of a major alliance, but its partnerships with other airlines give it wide connectivity.
32. Garuda Indonesia
Garuda Indonesia, headquartered in Jakarta, is Indonesia’s national airline and a prominent carrier in Southeast Asia. Known for its hospitality, it flies to over 90 destinations on regional and international routes.
It offers Economy, Business and First classes. Garuda Indonesia is a member of the SkyTeam alliance.
33. Vietnam Airlines
Vietnam Airlines, based in Hanoi, is Vietnam’s national carrier and a major player in Southeast Asian aviation. It has a modern fleet and connects passengers to over 60 destinations, mainly in Asia, Europe and Oceania.
It offers Economy and Business Class. Vietnam Airlines is a member of the SkyTeam alliance.
34. Philippine Airlines
Philippine Airlines, headquartered in Manila, is the national airline of the Philippines, with an extensive network within Asia and beyond. With a fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, it serves over 70 destinations across Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East.
It offers service classes from Economy to Business and emphasizes Filipino hospitality.
35. IndiGo
IndiGo, based in Gurugram, India, is the country’s largest low-cost carrier. It is known for efficient operations and budget fares, and serves over 80 destinations at home and abroad.
It operates a modern fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft with a no-frills service. Its emphasis on punctuality and affordability has made it popular with Indian passengers.
36. SpiceJet
SpiceJet, headquartered in Gurgaon, India, is a low-cost carrier known for affordable fares. It mainly serves domestic routes, with some international destinations, and connects over 50 cities across India and several in Asia.
With a fleet of Boeing and Bombardier aircraft, it provides a straightforward, budget-friendly service.
37. Vistara
Vistara, based in Gurgaon, India, is a premium airline formed as a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines. It operates flights to over 30 destinations within India, with plans for further expansion.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class, and has quickly earned a reputation for service and a modern fleet.
38. Air India
Air India, headquartered in New Delhi, is the national carrier of India and flies both domestic and international routes. It connects travelers to over 100 destinations, with a strong focus on Asia, Europe and North America.
It offers Economy, Business and First classes, with regional meals and Indian hospitality. Air India is a member of the Star Alliance.
39. Saudia
Saudia, based in Jeddah, is the national airline of Saudi Arabia and a prominent player in the Middle Eastern market. It connects passengers to over 90 destinations, focusing on Asia, Africa and Europe.
It offers Economy, Business and First classes. Saudia is a member of the SkyTeam alliance.
40. EgyptAir
EgyptAir, headquartered in Cairo, is the national airline of Egypt and a significant carrier in the Middle East and Africa. It flies to over 75 destinations and offers Economy and Business Class.
EgyptAir is a member of the Star Alliance.
41. El Al Israel Airlines
El Al Israel Airlines, based in Tel Aviv, is Israel’s national carrier, known for high safety standards and a focus on passenger security. It flies to major destinations in Europe, North America and Asia.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class.
42. Austrian Airlines
Austrian Airlines, headquartered in Vienna, is Austria's national airline and a key player in European aviation. It connects travelers to over 120 destinations across Europe, Asia and North America.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class, with a focus on comfort and Austrian hospitality. Austrian is a member of the Star Alliance.
43. Swiss International Air Lines
Swiss International Air Lines, based in Zurich, is the flag carrier of Switzerland, known for premium service and efficiency. It flies to over 100 destinations worldwide and is noted for quality, safety and punctuality.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy, Business and First Class, with an emphasis on Swiss cuisine and hospitality. Swiss is part of the Lufthansa Group and a member of the Star Alliance.
44. Finnair
Finnair, headquartered in Helsinki, is Finland's national carrier and a significant airline in the Nordic region. It is known for service and sustainability, and connects passengers to over 100 destinations, focusing on Asia and Europe. It offers Economy and Business Class with Scandinavian-inspired design.
Finnair is a member of the oneworld alliance. Helsinki’s location makes it a popular choice for flights between Europe and Asia.
45. SAS Scandinavian Airlines
SAS Scandinavian Airlines, based in Stockholm, is the flagship carrier of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. It is known for reliable service and sustainability initiatives, and serves over 100 destinations across Europe, North America and Asia.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class. SAS is a founding member of the Star Alliance.
46. Iberia
Iberia, headquartered in Madrid, is Spain’s national airline and a prominent carrier in Europe. It flies to more than 120 destinations, with a strong presence in Europe and Latin America.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy and Business Class. Iberia is a member of the oneworld alliance.
47. Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus, based in Dublin, is Ireland’s national airline, known for friendly service and extensive transatlantic routes. With a fleet of modern Airbus aircraft, it serves over 90 destinations, connecting Ireland to Europe, North America and beyond.
It offers Economy, Business and a new AerSpace premium service on select routes. Aer Lingus is not a formal member of any major alliance, but codeshare agreements with carriers like British Airways and JetBlue improve connectivity for transatlantic travelers.
48. Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic, headquartered in London, is known for its vibrant brand and customer service. Founded by Sir Richard Branson, it has built a reputation for innovation and passenger comfort. It flies to over 30 destinations, primarily in North America, the Caribbean and Asia.
It offers Economy, Premium Economy and Upper Class. Virgin Atlantic partners closely with Delta Air Lines and is part of the Virgin Group.
49. LATAM Airlines
LATAM Airlines, based in Santiago, Chile, is Latin America’s largest airline. It was formed from the merger of LAN Airlines and TAM Airlines, and operates an extensive network across Latin America, plus North America, Europe and Oceania.
It offers Economy and Premium Business Class, with regional cuisine. LATAM is a member of the oneworld alliance.
50. Avianca
Avianca, headquartered in Bogotá, Colombia, is the national airline of Colombia and one of the oldest continuously operating airlines in the world. It flies to over 100 destinations in North, Central and South America, as well as Europe.
It offers Economy and Business Class. Avianca is a member of the Star Alliance.
The table below ranks the top airlines globally by Available Seat Miles (ASMs) for the third quarter of 2024. It also shows the number of flights and seats each airline offered in that period.
| Rank | Airline | ASMs (Billions) | Flights | Seats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | United Airlines | 78.6 | 254,094 | 44,534,835 |
| 2 | Delta Air Lines | 73.5 | 305,238 | 52,588,227 |
| 3 | American Airlines | 68.5 | 308,712 | 53,585,552 |
| 4 | Emirates | 56.5 | 44,029 | 18,195,314 |
| 5 | Southwest Airlines | 45.4 | 365,982 | 58,295,522 |
| 6 | China Southern Airlines | 42.8 | 231,831 | 41,435,704 |
| 7 | Turkish Airlines | 41.4 | 132,744 | 26,884,253 |
| 8 | Qatar Airways | 40.6 | 50,421 | 13,775,272 |
| 9 | China Eastern Airlines | 38.1 | 233,835 | 39,574,622 |
| 10 | Air China | 34.5 | 154,438 | 29,015,391 |
| 11 | British Airways | 28.0 | 66,207 | 13,484,383 |
| 12 | Lufthansa | 27.9 | 86,488 | 17,152,811 |
| 13 | Air France | 27.6 | 57,018 | 11,810,204 |
| 14 | Ryanair | 26.4 | 165,798 | 31,774,847 |
| 15 | Air Canada | 25.4 | 48,989 | 10,066,767 |
| 16 | easyJet | 24.3 | 170,914 | 30,747,891 |
| 17 | IndiGo | 21.7 | 179,552 | 32,190,652 |
| 18 | Singapore Airlines | 21.7 | 29,328 | 7,767,473 |
| 19 | Cathay Pacific | 17.9 | 25,556 | 7,650,761 |
| 20 | Alaska Airlines | 17.5 | 71,944 | 12,181,782 |
| 21 | JetBlue Airways | 16.4 | 80,589 | 12,359,352 |
| 22 | ANA (All Nippon Airways) | 16.7 | 106,513 | 19,422,606 |
| 23 | Qantas Airways | 14.8 | 67,796 | 9,480,000 |
| 24 | Korean Air | 13.9 | 30,615 | 6,876,298 |
| 25 | Hainan Airlines | 13.0 | 67,942 | 12,952,775 |
| 26 | LATAM Airlines | 23.7 | 137,015 | 25,129,240 |
| 27 | Avianca | 9.5 | 64,902 | 11,821,190 |
| 28 | Azul Brazilian Airlines | 7.0 | 79,295 | 9,861,766 |
| 29 | Copa Airlines | 7.0 | 30,897 | 4,937,016 |
| 30 | Gol Linhas Aéreas | 6.7 | 51,757 | 9,232,962 |
| 31 | Aerolíneas Argentinas | 4.5 | 30,917 | 4,354,252 |
| 32 | Sky Airline | 2.3 | 15,444 | 2,985,672 |
| 33 | JetSmart Chile | 1.5 | 7,726 | 1,545,684 |
| 34 | Boliviana de Aviación | 0.8 | 10,606 | 1,530,817 |
| 35 | JetSmart Argentina | 0.5 | 3,197 | 594,642 |
| 36 | Saudia | 16.0 | 46,656 | 10,555,370 |
| 37 | Etihad Airways | 13.6 | 19,608 | 4,887,111 |
| 38 | flydubai | 6.9 | 28,899 | 5,034,034 |
| 39 | Air Arabia | 4.4 | 18,900 | 3,326,309 |
| 40 | Oman Air | 4.0 | 11,295 | 2,377,783 |
| 41 | El Al Israel Airlines | 3.9 | 7,145 | 1,442,629 |
| 42 | flynas | 3.6 | 24,232 | 4,230,318 |
| 43 | Kuwait Airways | 3.2 | 8,685 | 1,685,785 |
| 44 | Ethiopian Airlines | 11.1 | 6,039,806 | 6,039,806 |
| 45 | EgyptAir | 5.5 | 5,534,606 | 5,534,606 |
| 46 | South African Airways | 2.0 | 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 |
| 47 | Kenya Airways | 1.8 | 1,800,000 | 1,800,000 |
| 48 | Royal Air Maroc | 1.5 |
