This Airline Has the Best First Class Seating in the World for Its Hotel Room-style Suite Seats, On Board Service, and Food

For travelers who believe the journey should rival (or even outshine) the destination, flying First Class is a must. Lie-flat beds, access to private lounges, and multi-course meals served on fine china can transform even the longest flight into something approaching bliss—especially when the airline gets it just right.

In 2025, one airline’s first class offering has done exactly that with Singapore Airlines taking the top spot. (Singapore Airlines was just named the best international airline for the 10th consecutive year in Travel + Leisure‘s 2025 World’s Best Award, too.)

The title of the world’s best first class airline was awarded to the Southeast Asian carrier at this year’s Skytrax World Airline Awards (dubbed “the Oscars of the aviation industry”) with the crowning achievement backed by wins for the best first class onboard catering and the best first class airline seat. Together, the accolades confirm what frequent flyers have known for years: if you want a truly exceptional first class experience, Singapore Airlines is the gold standard.

The airline’s flagship A380 suites played a starring role in its success. More akin to hotel rooms than traditional airline seats, these private cabins feature sliding doors, spacious armchairs that recline and swivel, twin or double beds dressed in fine linens, and personal wardrobes.

A dedicated menu curated by a panel of internationally acclaimed chefs elevates the inflight dining experience—think lobster thermidor and smoked salmon eggs Benedict with caviar rather than reheated entrees. Travelers are also treated to large 32-inch HD touchscreen monitors, Bang & Olufsen noise-cancelling headphones, Lalique facial mist, and more top-notch amenities.

Beyond the seat itself, the onboard service sets Singapore Airlines apart. The carrier was also awarded the title of the world’s best cabin crew for 2025, a nod to its consistently warm and detail-oriented inflight offerings. It also claimed regional titles, including the best airline in Asia, and was ranked No. 2 in the world overall—a spot it has held for two consecutive years. (Singapore Airlines has earned the title of the world’s best airline five times, most recently in 2023.)

Skytrax rankings are determined by passengers who collectively review and rate more than 325 airlines around the globe. Each review is voluntary and passengers are not compensated for their opinions. “The focus of the survey is for customers to make their own, personal choices as to which airline they consider to be the best, underlining the brand as the Passenger’s Choice Awards,” according to the organization.

It all goes to show just how deeply Singapore Airlines has resonated with those who know first class best.