The 20 Best Airlines in the World List Only Has One U.S. Carrier

Summer is officially here, and air travel is expected to approach pre-pandemic levels as passengers jet off on long-overdue vacations. And while vacations are about the destination, sometimes it's the journey getting there that can make or break the trip.

To help you decide how to fly, Skytrax just released the results of its annual World Airline Awards, which determines the rankings through an online customer survey of flyers from 100 different countries. Singapore Airlines came out on top overall, marking its sixth time in the number one spot. Seven-time leader Qatar Airways was bumped to second place this year, but still reigned supreme in certain categories like world's best business class, world's best business class seat, best airline in the Middle East, and world's best business class lounge dining. Singapore's first class cabin was recognized as the world's best first class.

"This award is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our people, who worked tirelessly and made many sacrifices to ensure that SIA was ready for the recovery in air travel,” Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong shared of the news. “That has allowed us to emerge stronger and fitter from the pandemic as a leading international airline."

Airlines across the Asian continent largely dominated the rankings, with Emirates, Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Korean Air earning high praise. The only U.S. carrier to make the overall top 20 was Delta Air Lines, just barely squeaking in at number 20. The Atlanta-based company also took home prizes for best airline in North America and best airline staff service on the continent.

The next U.S. airline on the list was United coming in at number 49. Other domestic carriers to be honored were Sun Country Airlines, which won best low-cost airline in North America, and Alaska Airlines for best regional airline in North America.

Read up on the list below and start looking into some summer flight deals.

1. Singapore Airlines

2. Qatar Airways

3. All Nippon Airways (ANA)

4. Emirates

5. Japan Airlines

6. Turkish Airlines

7. Air France

8. Cathay Pacific Airways

9. EVA Air

10. Korean Air

11. Hainan Airlines

12. Swiss International Air Lines

13. Etihad Airways

14. Iberia

15. Fiji Airways

16. Vistara

17. Qantas Airways

18. British Airways

19. Air New Zealand

20. Delta Air Lines