Skytrax Names the Top 10 Economy-Seat Airlines

The results of Skytrax’s annual ranking of the top 10 economy airlines are in, and the reviews and ratings company inspected every aspect of the world’s economy-class seats from seat-cushion foam density to price to legroom. Each year, Skytrax surveys economy passengers who flew with one of more than 320 worldwide airlines and compiles the data to reveal passengers’ favorites. This year, 19.8 million travelers representing 105 countries were surveyed and asked about nearly every aspect of their flying experience, from boarding speed to in-flight service and beyond.

Asian and Middle Eastern airlines took nine of the top 10 spots in 2017’s results, with the top spot going to Thai Airways, which also won the top position for the in-flight catering subcategory. The rankings continue with Qatar Airways at No. 2 (which also won the award for World’s Best Airline), followed by Asiana Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines, Emirates, All Nippon Airways, EVA Air and, finally, German carrier Lufthansa.

Although airlines that made this list made strong advances in the premium classes, their economy-class seats are arguably just as important to maintain and improve as these seats cater to dozens more passengers who are ready and willing to voice their opinions based on their flying experience.

Not only did no U.S. airlines make the list of the top 10 airlines, but they also did not make it into the top 20.