Airline and airport quality have a significant impact on the overall travel experience. Factors such as food and drink options, comfortable seating areas, and shopping opportunities can greatly influence a traveler’s journey. Recently, Forbes Travel Guide revealed the best airline and airport in the world based on their annual Verified Air Travel Awards.
For the second year in a row, Emirates was named the best international airline. Known for its luxury, elegance, and high-quality service, Emirates is a popular choice among travelers. This is not the first time the airline has received recognition, as it is regularly awarded the title of World’s Best Airline.
Singapore Changi was named the best international airport, a title it has held for a record-breaking 13th time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards. This airport offers various attractions for travelers, including a butterfly garden, rooftop pool, and hedge maze. The Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, is also a popular attraction at Changi, cascading from a height of 40 meters. Additionally, Forbes recognized Changi as the best airport for dining.
Other notable winners include Delta Air Lines as the best US airline and JSX as the best small airline. LaGuardia Airport in New York was named the best airport in the US by Forbes. Emirates also received awards for their first-class experience, with their First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER named as the best international first class. The Emirates First Class Lounge in Dubai was also recognized as the best international airline lounge.
The winners of the Forbes ranking were chosen through a survey of over 9,000 highly experienced individuals in the hospitality industry. According to Peter Greenberg, an Emmy Award-winning travel journalist and host of Eye on Travel on CBS Radio, the Verified Air Travel Awards provide a trustworthy benchmark to distinguish genuine excellence from clever marketing. Unlike other popularity-based awards, the Verified Air Travel Awards are based on the expertise of the most discerning voices in the travel and hospitality industry.
In conclusion, Emirates and Singapore Changi have been named the best airline and airport in the world, respectively, by Forbes Travel Guide’s Verified Air Travel Awards. These awards are a testament to their exceptional service, amenities, and overall travel experience.
