Discover which airlines offer the best luxury travel experiences, and how you can afford to fly in style

If you’re looking to travel in style and can afford it, some airlines really live up to the pinnacle of elegance and great comfort. Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates and Air France La Premiere are some of the big names in unparalleled luxury experiences. There is also a new crop of bespoke companies, such as La Compagnie, offering first-class service. Plus, with the right mix of points, miles, deals and upgrades, you can enjoy luxury travel for less than you think.

Singapore Airlines: The best international and first class airline in the world

Singapore Airlines has been voted the best international airline in the world Travel + entertainment World’s Best Awards 2025, and has been on the “Best of” list for 10 consecutive years. In addition, it was voted Best First Class in the World by the Skytrax World Airline Awards. It was particularly known for its hotel room-style A380 suites, gourmet multi-course dining, and attentive cabin crew. If you’re looking for a flying experience that’s similar to staying at a boutique hotel, you can’t beat Singapore Airlines.

Qatar Airways: Qsuite Business Class

In 2025, Qatar Airways was named the best airline in the world by Skytrax for the second year in a row and the ninth time overall. The airline is famous for its Qsuite business class, which features sliding privacy doors and a completely private experience, similar to staying in a hotel. The Coral Garden Lounge at Doha Airport has been named the best business class lounge in the world, strengthening its position as a leading airline.

Emirates: First Class with Game-Changing Suites

Emirates is launching its game-changing First Class Suites in 2025 on its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. These are private cabins with floor-to-ceiling doors, zero gravity seating, personal climate control and virtual windows, all inspired by the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Business class is no slouch either, with 1-2-1 layouts, reclining seats, and bar service.

Air France La Premiere: European elegance

Air France has reshaped its first class experience, with just four cabins on each Boeing 777-300ER. Each cabin has five windows, a chaise lounge that converts to a flat bed, and dual 32-inch 4K monitors. The full experience includes a private chauffeur, personal welcome, Michelin-starred menus, fine cutlery, and boutique pajamas.

La Compagnie: Luxury Business Class

If you’re looking for an affordable luxury experience, La Compagnie offers business class flights with 76 lie-flat seats. The cruise includes 15.6-inch screens for every seat, unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi, seasonal menus from Chef Christophe Lingerie, organic wines, and more.

Domestic options for American travelers

For US travelers staying close to home, domestic US airlines also offer luxury options for discerning passengers. Delta One offers a transcontinental flight with fully lie-flat beds, chef-curated quality dining, Missoni amenities, and access to Delta Sky Clubs and state-of-the-art Delta One lounges.

American Airlines offers Flagship First service, which operates on select routes. It offers many of the same services as other high-end airline experiences, such as lie-flat beds, chef-selected menus, and access to its main lounges.

How to travel premium with promotions and points

The high-end services and accommodations on these airlines may be out of reach for many. But you can use points, promotions and other strategies to get good deals on luxury experiences.

A good place to start is with airline loyalty programs and credit card points. You may be able to accumulate enough points over time to travel business or first class without making a big dent in your budget.

Also keep an eye out for airline sales or flash upgrade offers. Many airlines offer last minute offers via email and their apps. Pay attention to travel blogs and forums that offer the latest information on deals, tips and tricks.

Bottom line

Flying can be about more than just getting to your destination. For travelers looking for the most luxurious travel experiences, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways and Emirates take the top spots with their stunning cabins, lie-flat beds, dining options, amenities and other services.

To access such flights, create a strategy using card points, promotions and airline deals. It takes effort and time, but it can make the luxury experience a reality.