A round-the-world (RTW) trip offers the ultimate travel adventure, and choosing the right airline for your journey is key to making the experience enjoyable and cost-effective. Fortunately, several airlines and airline alliances offer exceptional RTW travel options, often at discounted prices and with convenient routes to multiple destinations across the globe. Below is a list of the best airlines for RTW travel, along with their offerings and unique advantages.
1. Qantas Airways (Oneworld Alliance)
As Australia’s flagship airline, Qantas is known for providing excellent service and a comprehensive RTW ticket program through the Oneworld Alliance.
- Advantages: Qantas offers a range of RTW options with the flexibility to stop in over 1,000 cities across six continents. Their routes connect Australia to major hubs in Asia, Europe, North America, and beyond.
- Why Choose Qantas: You’ll benefit from the airline’s long-haul flight expertise and a network of global partners, including British Airways and American Airlines. They also have a reputation for reliability and comfort, especially on long-distance flights.
2. Singapore Airlines (Star Alliance)
Singapore Airlines is renowned for its service quality, in-flight comfort, and extensive network. They are part of the Star Alliance, which allows access to over 1,300 destinations around the world.
- Advantages: With Singapore Airlines, you can experience world-class service and a smooth journey across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania. The airline frequently offers RTW tickets that include stopovers in Singapore, allowing travelers to explore this vibrant city-state.
- Why Choose Singapore Airlines: Excellent service, luxurious cabins, and a large network of destinations make this a great option for travelers who prioritize comfort and service on their RTW journey.
3. Cathay Pacific (Oneworld Alliance)
Based in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific is a top choice for RTW travelers, particularly those who wish to explore Asia, Australia, and the Pacific region. Cathay is also a member of the Oneworld Alliance, providing access to global destinations.
- Advantages: Cathay offers a wide range of routes throughout Asia, Europe, and North America, and their RTW tickets provide excellent flexibility. Their award-winning service and newer aircraft ensure a comfortable flying experience.
- Why Choose Cathay Pacific: If your RTW journey includes a stop in Hong Kong or you plan to visit destinations throughout Asia, Cathay Pacific’s RTW tickets are ideal. The airline is also known for its high-quality in-flight entertainment and dining.
4. Lufthansa (Star Alliance)
Lufthansa, Germany’s national carrier, is a leader in global air travel and an excellent choice for RTW trips. As part of the Star Alliance, Lufthansa connects travelers to more than 1,000 destinations worldwide.
- Advantages: Lufthansa’s RTW program offers stops across Europe, North America, and Asia. The airline’s extensive network makes it easy to find convenient routes that connect you to various continents.
- Why Choose Lufthansa: Lufthansa is known for its punctuality, solid customer service, and premium in-flight offerings. If you’re traveling through Europe and seeking seamless connections to major cities worldwide, Lufthansa is a strong contender.
5. Air New Zealand (Star Alliance)
For travelers heading to the South Pacific or Australia, Air New Zealand is an exceptional choice. It is also a member of Star Alliance, providing access to a vast network of destinations.
- Advantages: Air New Zealand is famous for its incredible service, especially on long-haul flights. The airline offers RTW tickets that include multiple stops in Oceania, Asia, and beyond, including excellent connections to New Zealand and Australia.
- Why Choose Air New Zealand: The airline is recognized for its superb in-flight service, and their routes to Oceania and the South Pacific make them ideal for RTW travelers looking to explore this region.
6. Emirates (Independent)
Based in Dubai, Emirates is one of the most luxurious airlines in the world and offers a broad global network that spans six continents.
- Advantages: Emirates provides excellent routes to Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, often with fewer layovers. The airline’s service is top-notch, with spacious seating and entertainment options, making it perfect for long-haul travel.
- Why Choose Emirates: If you’re flying through the Middle East or seeking premium service on your RTW journey, Emirates offers a fantastic experience with its fleet of modern aircraft and high-end amenities.
7. Thai Airways (Star Alliance)
Thai Airways is a great choice for travelers wishing to explore Southeast Asia or travel between Europe and Asia. As a member of Star Alliance, it provides access to a broad network of RTW routes.
- Advantages: Thai Airways offers affordable RTW tickets with flexible stopover options in Bangkok, one of Asia’s most vibrant cities. Their routes cover Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.
- Why Choose Thai Airways: Known for its friendly service, excellent food, and smooth flights, Thai Airways is a solid choice for those seeking affordable RTW options with a Southeast Asian flair.
8. Air Canada (Star Alliance)
Air Canada offers an extensive network throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, and is also part of the Star Alliance. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to explore North America as part of their RTW trip.
- Advantages: Air Canada offers flexible RTW tickets with many options for stops across Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Asia. The airline has a solid reputation for service, and its fleet of modern aircraft is perfect for long-haul travel.
- Why Choose Air Canada: If you’re exploring North America, particularly Canada and the U.S., Air Canada is an excellent choice, with convenient connections and seamless routes.
9. British Airways (Oneworld Alliance)
Based in London, British Airways is one of the leading airlines for RTW travel, offering a wide range of routes and competitive pricing through the Oneworld Alliance.
- Advantages: British Airways offers direct access to Europe from virtually anywhere in the world and provides numerous RTW ticket options. The airline has a vast network of connections across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East.
- Why Choose British Airways: For travelers looking to start or end their RTW journey in Europe, British Airways offers great service, a large network, and excellent deals for RTW tickets.
10. Japan Airlines (Oneworld Alliance)
As part of the Oneworld Alliance, Japan Airlines (JAL) offers travelers the opportunity to explore Asia and beyond with some of the best service available.
- Advantages: JAL is renowned for its high standards of service and exceptional punctuality. It offers numerous routes to cities in Japan, Asia, North America, and Europe. Their RTW tickets allow you to visit a wide range of destinations in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region.
- Why Choose Japan Airlines: If your RTW trip includes a focus on Asia, JAL provides access to excellent routes throughout the region and unparalleled in-flight service.
