AirlineRatings.com has unveiled its highly anticipated World’s Best Airline Awards for 2025, and this year, a new category is making waves—the introduction of Best Hybrid Airlines. This groundbreaking recognition highlights airlines that successfully blend elements of both full-service and low-cost models, offering passengers greater flexibility, affordability, and comfort.
Unlike traditional airline categories, hybrid carriers operate with a mix of premium and budget-friendly features, allowing travelers to customize their experience. Some provide full-service perks on long-haul routes while offering basic fares with optional add-ons on shorter flights. This approach has gained traction globally, and AirlineRatings CEO Sharon Petersen emphasized its significance: “These airlines deserve recognition for their excellence in hybrid operations and their innovative offerings. We are proud to be the first aviation media outlet to acknowledge this shift.”
Top 20 Hybrid Airlines of 2025
- JetBlue
- WestJet
- Virgin Australia
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- American Airlines
- Lufthansa
- Air Canada
- LOT Polish Airlines (transitioning toward full service)
- TAP Air Portugal
- Alaska Airlines
- SWISS International Air Lines
- Avianca
- Iberia
- British Airways
- Finnair
- Austrian Airlines
- Hawaiian Airlines
- ITA Airways
- SAS – Scandinavian Airlines
What Defines a Hybrid Airline?
Hybrid airlines typically offer a mix of fare classes, giving passengers options to tailor their flight experience. Many of these carriers have:
- Full-service offerings on long-haul international routes (such as free meals, checked baggage, and premium seating).
- Low-cost flexibility on shorter routes, where passengers can choose add-ons like seat selection, extra legroom, or meal upgrades.
- Loyalty programs that rival traditional full-service airlines while keeping costs competitive for budget-conscious travelers.
Carriers like JetBlue, Delta, and WestJet have become leaders in this model, providing premium cabins and complimentary in-flight entertainment while still offering budget-friendly ticket options. Meanwhile, airlines such as LOT Polish Airlines and KLM are currently evolving, adapting their service structures to meet the growing demand for hybrid flexibility.
A Shift in Air Travel
The rise of hybrid airlines reflects a changing landscape in global aviation. As travelers seek more customization, affordability, and premium comfort, airlines are adapting by blending low-cost efficiency with full-service luxury. With this newly recognized category, the future of air travel looks more flexible than ever—giving passengers more choices without compromising on quality.
