August 8, 2023
With an ever-growing number of travel options, many travelers strive to simplify their lives by choosing a favorite airline. Selecting a preferred airline means not having to worry about that aspect of their travel plans, easing the decision-making process. This might also explain why airlines proudly display their Skytrax ratings, boasting about being the best airline. But how can we accurately determine what truly constitutes the best airline?
Price undeniably stands as one of the most crucial factors when it comes to airline selection. However, the price landscape is far from straightforward. It fluctuates depending on the specific route and the level of competition between airlines. Non-direct flights often prove to be more budget-friendly due to the trade-off with convenience. These flights may involve layovers or connecting flights, adding to the travel time but potentially lowering the ticket cost.
Non-direct flights, however, sometimes offer more miles due to the extra distance and segments (that is: separate flights) covered.
Budget airlines have gained popularity over the years for their affordability. Yet, they often provide fewer conveniences such as complimentary meals, reduced seat space, limited baggage allowances, and limited mileage accrual. Some people don't worry about all these extras; they just want to get from point A to point B. Others might be extra concerned about having to travel to a far-off airport in the very early morning to catch that budget flight.
As seen, it all depends on preference. Personally, I wouldn't mind traveling on a low-cost airline intra-Europe. I don't travel with much luggage, so I don't check in any. The flights are short, so I can cope with being cramped into a small seat and don't need to refuel or rehydrate myself. On longer flights, flying low-cost might be a no-no for me, but I can imagine younger travelers are better able to withstand the challenges of long-haul low-cost airlines.
Convenience is a highly subjective element and is primarily driven by individual preferences and travel needs. Business travelers may prioritize reliability and punctuality. They're looking for a favorite airline that has the least delays. This might be hard to pinpoint because delays are not always solely the airline's fault. Although mostly budget airlines have a shorter turnaround time (the time the plane spends on the ground) and are prone to delays, this does not always lead to disturbances delaying all the flights with the same plane on the rest of the day. The main takeaway here is that earlier flights on the day tend to be least delayed (by having a lesser chance by being influenced by delays with the same plane earlier in the day because there were no earlier flights).
Family travelers might want to opt for airlines having policies for early boarding of families and having them seated in special places on the plane. Traveling with (young) children might bring more stress, and having great experiences with airlines alleviating these stressful situations might help travelers choose their favorite airlines.
Earning miles and loyalty points is a significant consideration for frequent travelers. While this aspect is linked to the airline's loyalty program, it plays a role in choosing an airline. The ability to earn miles through other partner airlines can significantly impact a traveler's decision. As mentioned, this doesn't always relate to one airline specifically but rather with the airlines a program is associated with.
Customer support is crucial for any airline. Being able to handle queries and complaints about travel is key to grading an airline higher on my list of favorites. Not once have I had a short and satisfying conversation with a customer agent, although British Airways has provided me with the best help in recent times.
Skytrax, an airline rating agency, sheds light on customer experiences and satisfaction levels with various airlines. Their most recent ranking depicts Asian airlines dominating the top spots, while European airlines rank lower in comparison. For instance, Singapore Airlines holds the coveted title of the best-rated airline, praised for its excellent service, food, and in-flight entertainment. Air France is the only European airline in the top ten, at seventh place.
I do not think Skytrax is very helpful. On average, my personal experience ranks Asian airlines way higher than European airlines (and even more so than American airlines). But I do rank personal preference higher than just following what Skytrax publishes.
Although the airline itself is a significant aspect, the airport experience plays an integral part in the overall travel journey. A well-designed, spacious, and efficient airport can enhance the travel experience, particularly during connecting flights. When flying with full-service carriers, passengers may invariably pass through their hubs, making the quality of the home airport an essential consideration.
To illustrate the complexities of choosing the best airline, let's consider a common scenario—traveling from London to Dubai. Several airlines offer direct flights from London's major airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted) to Dubai International Airport. Emirates alone offers eleven daily non-stop flights between the London metropolitan area and Dubai. British Airways is among the other airlines on these routes. Each of these airlines provides various options for the traveler to choose from, presenting a multifaceted decision-making process.
If all flights have the same price, which airline would you opt for? This question alone can spark multiple discussions among travelers, as personal preferences and priorities come into play. Some may prioritize flying from a smaller, potentially less crowded airport like Stansted, while others may opt for the convenience and amenities provided by the larger airports. Which time would you prefer? Would you prefer a night flight, trying to get some sleep on the plane (and saving a night in a hotel), or rather do the opposite and fly during the day, to get a proper night's sleep in a hotel when arriving? And what's the difference in price you would like to pay to avoid one and choose the other?
Alternatively, you might choose a non-direct flight, providing even more options for your journey. The interconnectedness of the world opens up infinite possibilities, such as changing planes in Riyadh with Saudia or Istanbul with Pegasus. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, making it difficult to definitively declare a "best" airline for this specific route.
In conclusion, determining the best airline is akin to unlocking an enigma—a pursuit without a definitive answer. As travelers, we are blessed with countless options, each tailored to suit various preferences and priorities. The quest for the best airline is a personal journey, and what may be ideal for one traveler might not resonate with another.
Ultimately, your best airline will be the one that aligns with your individual preferences, values, and travel goals. As you embark on your future adventures, remember that the best airline is the one that complements your unique journey, making each flight a rewarding and memorable experience. Happy travels!
