Why this economy seat was voted best in the world for long-haul travel by experts
When it comes to economy class on planes, airlines tend to go one of two ways.
Either they try to make use of every square centimetre on board, cramming in seats and leaving passengers with very little leg and elbow room, and barely any amenities.
Or, they focus on customer satisfaction, introducing features geared toward passenger comfort.
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Economy seats aren't always comfy. Getty
Some premium airlines are changing the game for long-haul economy travel.
Smart design and a focus on exemplary customer service go a long way, especially when people are confined to their seats for 17 hours.
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Justin Foster at Simple Flying, who has a background in aviation engineering, has collated a list of the best economy cabins in the world, based on seat design and customer service.
Cathay Pacific Airways
Maybe one of the most celebrated economy cabins in the industry, Cathay won several awards for the best economy class seats in 2025, including at the prestigious Skytrax awards. They also got a nod for their stellar in-flight catering.
Cathay Pacific's economy class is very highly regarded. Cathay Pacific
"Overall, Cathay Pacific's economy class offering is one of the more compelling choices for long-haul economy travel," writes Justin.
The seats are wide and comfy with ample legroom, even for tall passengers. They have large screens, USB ports, power sockets, and tablet/phone shelving.
Cathay also serves its own brand of beer, which has been designed to be enjoyed at altitude.
Qatar Airways
The economy cabin on Qatar Airways planes feels like a premium offering, thanks to the seats which have extra padding, and a generous 31-inch pitch. They "have revolutionised economy class travel over recent years," according to Justin.
Customers also celebrate the airline's full-service treatment, which includes an excellent on-demand in-flight entertainment system, high-quality meals and snacks, and traveller amenity kits even in economy class.
Newer cabins also have mood lighting, dual tray tables, and a 19-degree recline.
The seats on Qatar Airways have extra padding. Qatar Airways
Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines consistently wins awards for the "World's Best Economy Class Airline Seat" thanks to its innovative Sky Wider Economy seats.
These seats have a 34-inch pitch, meaning they have the most legroom of any long-haul economy airline, plus a wider seat than many competitors.
Japan Airlines has wide economy seats. JAL
Add in the warm and friendly hospitality from the crew, and you've got yourself an excellent economy experience.
Singapore Airlines
Singapore's national carrier is often cited as having the best customer service in the biz.
Justin says that the airline has helped to "change the perception" that long-haul flights have to be an uncomfortable experience.
They're also recognised for the advanced entertainment system and delicious multi-course meal service.
Singapore Airlines has comfortable seats for long-haul. SIngapore Airlines
ANA Airlines have roomy seats even for tall people. Facebook
All Nippon Airways
Another Japanese offering, ANA is praised for its clean and functional cabins, with a crew that delivers refined and meticulous service.
The airline has recently upgraded its economy cabins on its long-haul aircraft like the Boeing 777 and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to have more spacious seats and improved legroom.
Passengers also praise the airline's complimentary hot meals and its snack service.
