A Comprehensive Guide to the World's Top 10 Budget-Friendly Airlines

Skytrax, the leading consumer aviation rating agency, has named AirAsia the world’s best low-cost airline for the ninth year in a row. The award was given to the Sepang-based company during the 2017 Paris Airshow. AirAsia’s CEO, Tony Fernandes, expressed their commitment to maintaining this title and improving for both their guests and shareholders. Over the past 15 years, AirAsia has built a strong brand, and their goal for the next 15 years is to become a unified Southeast Asian airline under “One AirAsia.”

Skytrax rankings are based on feedback from 19.87 million travelers from 105 countries. The survey covered over 325 airlines and evaluated 49 parameters, including boarding procedures, seat comfort, and service quality.

IndiGo, based in New Delhi, secured the 10th position, although previously ranked 8th. It is praised for its excellent cabin service and good value for money. Known for a fleet of over 100 Airbus A320 jets, IndiGo has over 400 more on order, marking rapid growth in the region. IndiGo continues to be recognized as the Best Low-Cost Airline in Central Asia and India for the eighth year.

Southwest Airlines, a newcomer in the rankings, placed 9th. With a fleet of over 700 Boeing 737 jets, Southwest is renowned for its low-cost flights and customer-friendly policies, such as free checked bags.

Azul Brazilian Airlines climbed to the 8th spot from 10th. The Sao Paulo-based airline, founded by David Neeleman, operates new Airbus, ATR, and Embraer aircraft primarily within Brazil, with some services to the US and Europe. It was also awarded Best Low-Cost Airline in South America and Best Airline Staff in South America for the second consecutive year.

AirAsia X, AirAsia’s long-haul subsidiary, is in 7th place, dropping from 6th. Its Airbus A330-300 jets serve routes throughout Asia, offering both premium and economy cabins. AirAsia X received accolades for having the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline Premium Cabin and Premium Seat for the second year in a row.

Jetstar Airways, a subsidiary of Australia’s Qantas, secured the 6th spot, slipping from 5th. Known for its Airbus A320 and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, the Melbourne-based airline is praised for its excellent cabin service and good value for money. It remains the Best Low-Cost Airline in Australia and the Pacific for the sixth consecutive year.

Virgin America, which dropped to 5th from 2nd, continues to be a favorite among travelers. Despite being sold to Alaska Airlines in 2016 for $2.6 billion and set to disappear by 2019, it offers high-quality service typical of a Virgin-branded company at low-cost carrier prices.

EasyJet held steady at 4th place. Over two decades, its no-frills, low-cost model has made it a leading budget airline. Flying over 230 Airbus jets to around 800 destinations in Europe, EasyJet is celebrated for its solid service and low prices.

JetBlue Airways, which was previously unranked, took 3rd place. Since 1998, JetBlue has set high standards for low-cost carriers in the US with features like mood lighting, friendly service, complimentary satellite TV, and the roomiest economy seats on their Airbus A320 fleet, making it an industry leader.

Norwegian Air climbed to 2nd place from 3rd. Despite controversies, the airline is commended for its aggressive expansion and ultra-low-cost trans-Atlantic flights. Norwegian has been the Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe for five consecutive years and is also named the World’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline again.

At 1st place, AirAsia remains the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline. Over the past 15 years, CEO Tony Fernandes and his team have transformed a struggling state-owned airline into a multinational aviation powerhouse. Skytrax reviews highlight AirAsia’s responsive customer service, friendly cabin crew, and efficient operations.