Etihad & Emirates Top Ranking of World’s Best Airline Luxuries

Forget lie-flat seats and complimentary champagne, because the world’s most extravagant airline experiences come with private bedrooms, onboard showers and even airport jacuzzis. Etihad Airways and Emirates have claimed the top two spots in a new ranking by air passenger rights company AirAdvisor, which assessed the world’s most luxurious airline experiences.

Taking first place is Etihad’s The Residence, scoring 98 out of 100 for its three-room suite aboard the Airbus A380, complete with a living room, double bedroom and ensuite shower. Emirates follows in second with its A380 Shower Spa, where first-class passengers can freshen up at 40,000 feet, while its onboard lounge also earns a spot in eighth place.

The rest of the top 10 includes Swiss’s First Grand Suite, Singapore Airlines’ private A380 suites and Air France’s private airport suites at Paris Charles de Gaulle. Qatar Airways also makes the list with its Al Safwa First Lounge in Doha, featuring nine treatment rooms and a thermal jacuzzi, while Virgin Atlantic rounds things out with a business-class suite designed for up to four passengers.

The ranking was based on extravagance, rarity, privacy and exclusivity, with AirAdvisor warning travellers to check aircraft and routes before booking, as these premium experiences aren't available on every flight.