Flying economy in 2025 is not what it used to be. With airlines like Singapore Airlines (SQ) and Japan Airlines (JL) setting new standards, the gap between premium cabins and economy is narrowing in ways that matter most to travelers.
From Tokyo (HND) to Zurich (ZRH) and beyond, carriers are redesigning seats, improving in-flight entertainment, and introducing perks that make long-haul flights more bearable. The focus is clear: more comfort, smarter technology, and better service for the majority of passengers flying economy, as flagged by Islands.com
Photo: Charles | Flickr
8 Airlines Improving Economy Class in 2025
Economy class is getting major attention as airlines compete to win over travelers.
These upgrades go beyond minor tweaks—they include complete cabin redesigns, cutting-edge entertainment systems, and thoughtful touches for passenger well-being.
Photo: Clément Alloing
1. Japan Airlines (JL)
Tokyo-based Japan Airlines has been recognized for having the “Best Economy Seat in the World” by Skytrax for six years running.
In 2025, JAL introduced redesigned seats with a generous 34-inch pitch, 19-inch width, and a 6-inch recline.
Each seat now includes Type-A and Type-C USB ports, an international power outlet, and a 13.3-inch 4K screen.
Photo: Japan Airlines
The airline is rolling these upgrades across its Airbus A350-1000 and A350-900 fleets.
All Nippon Airways Boeing 777-381(ER) Economy; Photo- nimame | Wikimedia Commons
2. All Nippon Airways (NH)
ANA has followed a similar path, upgrading its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with seats offering 33–34 inches of pitch and 7 inches of recline.
A redesigned seatback provides extra knee space, while new 13.3-inch screens with Bluetooth connectivity set a high bar for entertainment in economy.
SWISS A350 Economy | Photo: SWISS International Air Lines
3. Swiss International Air Lines (LX)
SWISS has reimagined its long-haul cabins with 33-inch pitch, 19-inch width, and 6-inch recline.
Beyond seating, its “SWISS Senses” concept brings locally sourced meals, reusable cutlery, mood lighting to minimize jet lag, and even a signature cabin scent, elevating economy into a premium experience.
Photo: Southwest Airlines
4. Southwest Airlines (WN)
Southwest Airlines, traditionally a low-cost carrier, is refreshing its cabins with 32-inch pitch seats, adjustable headrests, and improved padding.
While it lacks seatback screens, device holders, and USB ports helps passengers stay connected. The updates are gradually rolling out across its U.S. fleet.
Photo- Delta News Hub
5. Delta Air Lines (DL)
Delta has improved its long-haul economy with new memory-foam cushions for added comfort. It leads U.S. carriers in offering free Wi-Fi to SkyMiles members and continues to expand Bluetooth connectivity across its fleet.
Combined with the Delta Studio entertainment system, these updates keep it ahead of most domestic competitors.
Photo: Qantas
6. Qantas (QF)
Preparing for its Project Sunrise ultra-long-haul flights from Sydney (SYD) to New York (JFK) and London (LHR), Qantas is redesigning its Airbus A350-1000 cabins. Seats now feature a 33-inch pitch, an 18-inch width, and enhanced ergonomic support.
Passengers will also benefit from a “Wellness Zone” onboard, designed for stretching, hydration, and healthy snacks during flights of nearly 20 hours.
Air New Zealand New Economy Class Seats on 787 | Photo: Air New Zealand
7. Air New Zealand (NZ)
Air New Zealand is upgrading its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with 8 inches of recline, slimmer backs for more knee space, and new storage features.
Tech improvements include 13-inch HD screens, Bluetooth audio, and multiple charging options. The airline will soon debut its SkyNest bunk-bed concept in 2026, a first in commercial aviation.
Photo: Singapore Airlines
8. Singapore Airlines (SQ)
Singapore Airlines introduced free, unlimited Wi-Fi for all passengers in 2025, setting a new standard in economy connectivity. Seats offer 19-inch widths and 6-inch recline, paired with the KrisWorld entertainment system.
Known for excellent service and high-quality meals, Singapore Airlines maintains its reputation as one of the best choices for long-haul travel.
Photo: Brisbane Airport (BNE)
How Airlines Were Selected
This list focuses exclusively on airlines that introduced significant economy class upgrades in 2025.
Criteria included seat redesigns, entertainment enhancements, cabin innovations, and new passenger-focused services.
Information was sourced from airlines directly and industry reports by Islands.com, ensuring accuracy as of August 2025.
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