INSIGHT
6 best airlines for business travel in 2024
Business travel is more than reaching your destination; it's about the experience in transit. One bad flight can set the tone for the rest of the trip, but choosing the right airline with the travel perks you need can elevate the entire business travel experience.
Every aspect, from check-in to earning rewards, can significantly impact your trip. With so many airlines vying for your attention, how do you choose the one that aligns perfectly with your business travel priorities?
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of business travel, exploring the best airlines tailored to your unique preferences. Whether you value comfort, lounge access, rewards, or scheduling flexibility, we've got you covered.
Most scheduling flexibility: Southwest Airlines
Fly on your time
Try as we might, no travel manager can account for every unseen possibility. Sometimes, the unexpected happens, and business trips are left postponed or canceled altogether.
For those who value flexibility, Southwest Airlines stands out among the rest. Southwest has never charged change fees on same-day air travel bookings, regardless of the fare chosen. If the updated flight costs more, you pay the difference. If it costs less, you get that difference back.
Changes or cancelations can be made up to 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, providing unparalleled scheduling freedom.
Best mileage program: United Airlines
Meet MileagePlus
United MileagePlus is the top choice for travelers based in major U.S. cities and those exploring Europe, Central and South America, Australia, Mexico, and Asia. As a MileagePlus member, you earn and redeem miles not only on United but also with 40-plus airline partners, including Singapore Airlines and Lufthansa, as part of the Star Alliance network.
United's strategic partnerships with premier hotel brands like Marriott, Hyatt, and IHG offer you the opportunity to earn valuable rewards during your stays at properties worldwide. The versatility of MileagePlus doesn't end there – you can redeem your earned miles for a myriad of experiences, ranging from flights and hotel stays to cruises, magazine subscriptions, and captivating destination experiences, such as sporting events and theater performances. To amplify your rewards, opt for one of four exclusive United MileagePlus credit cards from Chase Visa, allowing you to earn miles effortlessly on both flights and everyday purchases.
Easiest rewards: Delta Air Lines
Earn miles per macchiato
Since 2022, US customers have enjoyed the seamless integration between Starbucks Rewards and Delta SkyMiles loyalty programs, making their travel experiences even more rewarding. By simply visiting deltastarbucks.com or starbucksdelta.com, members can link their accounts and unlock exclusive perks.
Travelers can get the most out of their daily coffee runs – through this partnership, customers earn 1 mile for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at Starbucks while also earning double Stars on days they fly with Delta.
Starting this year, Diamond and Platinum SkyMiles Members will have the option to select 4000 Stars as one of their annual Choice Benefits. The best part? Miles earned through SkyMiles rewards never expire, offering members flexibility and convenience in redeeming them for flights, upgrades, hotels, and a myriad of other travel-related perks.
Best in economy: Singapore Airlines
The ultimate traveler’s delight
Singapore Airlines dominated the 2023 Business Traveller Awards, securing the most prestigious titles for two consecutive years. Recognized as the Best Airline, Best First-Class, Best Economy-Class, Best Cabin Staff, and Best Asian Airline, Singapore Airlines is unparalleled in its commitment to excellence.
Adding a touch of culinary delight to premium economy-class, Singapore Airlines introduces the "Book the Cook" service on all flights over 1.5 hours, which allows passengers to pre-select their meals, offering a personalized and delectable dining experience onboard. Travelers flying coach on most flights under 3.5 hours can look forward to an enhanced regional menu with over 40 newly-created dishes, all served in sustainable tableware.
The airline’s KrisWorld system boasts more than 1,000 movies, shows, music, and games designed to keep passengers happy and entertained on its long-haul flights. From check-in to boarding and baggage handling, premium economy travelers can also expect priority treatment throughout their entire journey.
Best amenities: Qatar Airways
Where business-class feels first class
Qatar Airways, a trailblazer in the aviation industry, set new standards for business travel with the introduction of its revolutionary Qsuites back in 2017. Today, they are widely regarded as one of the finest premium cabins globally, complete with double beds, noise canceling headphones, and sliding doors for total privacy.
Adjustable panels and movable TV monitors on adjoining seats gives business travelers the ability to transform their space into a customized 4-passenger suite, allowing them to work, dine, and socialize together while also enjoying their own private rooms. The flight seat itself is among the most luxurious in the world, providing a fully lie-flat experience for maximum comfort throughout the flight. Travelers can even enjoy fine wines and mojitos over Arabic and Western meal choices that lean more restaurant style than traditional airline cuisine.
In 2023, Qatar Airways earned four prestigious Business Traveller Awards, including Best Long-Haul Airline, Best Business Class, Best Middle Eastern Airline, and Best Inflight Food & Beverages – and it’s easy to see why.
Best business-class perks: Emirates Airlines
Comfort means convenience
Emirates Airlines places a premium on ensuring the utmost care and convenience for its business-class travelers. When flying with Emirates, expect a wide array of exclusive benefits, including complimentary chauffeur services for seamless pick-ups and drop-offs.
Whether you want to catch up on meeting notes or you just need to relax away from the crowds, business-class patrons can enjoy exceptional lounges which are accessible 24/7 as part of the Emirates experience.
Dedicated check-in desks are available exclusively for corporate travelers. And to expedite the baggage handling process, priority tags are assigned to business-class luggage during check-in, guaranteeing that they are among the first to be retrieved upon arrival.
Jetting off across the globe to a can’t-miss convention? As business-class passengers, you can enjoy the added perk of fast-track passes for pre-check and immigration, allowing you to make short work of draining airport drudgeries.
Choosing the right airline goes beyond the destination; it's about embracing a journey tailored to your business needs.
Whether you prioritize luxurious amenities, flexible scheduling, mileage rewards, or advantageous partnerships, these top contenders in various categories ensure that your business travel is not just a trip but an experience worth celebrating. Unlock the skies with these exemplary airlines and make your journey as remarkable as your destination.