The World’s Most Improved Airlines


Megan Johnson
dbvirago | Adobe Stock

While we often focus on the worst and the best when it comes to airlines, we can overlook another important category: the most improved. The Skytrax World Airline Awards have named the World’s Most Improved Airlines of 2025, spotlighting carriers that have learned from their past mistakes to give their travelers better experiences. The award recognizes airlines that made the most significant year-over-year gains in global ranking and service performance.

  • 1. Starlux Airlines (Taiwan)

  • Most Improved Airlines
    Adobe Stock | eric1207cvb

    The boutique Taiwanese airline takes the crown this year, earning praise for its sleek design, attentive crews, and ambitious global expansion. With new long-haul routes to the U.S. and Europe, Starlux has evolved from newcomer to luxury contender.

  • 2. ITA Airways (Italy)

  • ITA Airways has polished its image with modern branding, improved punctuality, and a growing international network. They are also dedicated to continually improving, with new routes, planes, and a better passenger experience.

  • 3. HK Express (Hong Kong)

  • Hong Kong Express Airbus
    Adobe Stock | zapper

    Since Cathay Pacific bought HK Express, the airline has continued to improve. Once considered a budget airline, they’ve risen in the ranks since the takeover. They’ve become more reliable and friendlier crews, with refreshed cabins for improved comfort.

  • 4. Eurowings (Germany)

  • Eurowings has won three other awards from Skytrax: Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe, Best Low-Cost Airline in Western Europe, and Best Low-Cost Airline in Germany. This recognition underscores its significant progress and establishment as a top airline for European flights, which includes multi-sensory elements for a top-notch in-flight experience.

  • 5. Egypt Air (Egypt)

  • Embarking on a major drive to modernize its fleet, adding new Airbus A350 aircraft and upgrading its digital systems through a partnership with SITA to improve efficiency and the passenger experience, Egypt Air continues to dedicate itself to improvements. They are also expanding their route network and investing in sustainability and maintenance upgrades as part of a five-year growth plan.

  • 6. Air Japan (Japan)

  • Part of ANA, Air Japan continues to grow, expanding its schedule and fleet.

  • 7. MIAT Mongolian Airlines (Mongolia)

  • MIAT Mongolian Airlines Boeing
    Adobe Stock | Markus Mainka

    This emerging airline is starting to expand to international routes. Recent improvements include an upgraded fleet, revitalized safety standards, and rebranding efforts.

  • 8. Discover Airlines (Germany)

  • In 2025, Discover opened a base in Munich, added connections in Florida, Canada, and southern Africa, and was awarded the German Design Award 2025 for its refreshed communications design.