As a full-time travel blogger, I’ve traveled to 39 European countries and spend at least two months there annually. My wife is Austrian, so I split time between Vienna and the Alps. I’ve flown most major transatlantic airlines, from budget to luxury.
For this 2025 guide to the 14 best airlines to fly to Europe from the U.S., I didn’t just rely on my personal experience (though I have plenty). I did a thorough analysis that included:
- Comparing over 200 transatlantic routes across major U.S. and European airlines
- Reviewing average round-trip economy and business class fares over the past 12 months to track price trends
- Evaluating on-time performance data and cancellation rates from official airline statistics
- Analyzing seat comfort, cabin amenities, in-flight service quality, and meal options from both industry rankings and firsthand flights
- Considering frequent flyer program value for travelers who might make Europe a regular destination
The result? A data-driven, firsthand-tested list that will help you choose the airline that fits your travel style, budget, and comfort needs. Whether you’re heading to Paris for a weekend getaway or spending a summer roaming Europe, these are the top airlines to fly to Europe that you should know about.
- Read also: The Cheapest European Airlines in 2025
#1 Tip to Find Cheap Flights to Europe
If you’re serious about finding the cheapest flights to Europe, you’re going to love this. Most people book their ticket, cross their fingers, and hope they didn’t overpay. But there’s a much smarter way…and it’s the exact system I use to find the kind of fares you brag about for years.
It’s called Going (you might remember it as Scott’s Cheap Flights), and it’s an absolute game-changer. You sign up, tell them your departure city and dream destinations, and then—like magic—your inbox starts filling up with alerts for insanely cheap flights, mistake fares, and even premium cabin deals.
I’ve personally scored a $299 roundtrip from Boston to Paris in peak June and a $312 New York to Rome flight that should have been triple the price. And here’s the kicker: their Premium membership is only $49/year, and just one booked deal pays for itself. Their Elite tier is where I’ve saved the real money—over $7,000 in business and first-class flights this year alone.
- Special Reader Discount: If you want in, I’ve got a deal for you. Use my promo code JON25 to save 25% on any paid plan. This is an exclusive code for my readers, so don’t let it expire on you.
The Best Airlines That Fly to Europe in 2025
Ready to plan your Europe trip in 2025? Choosing the right airline can make all the difference in starting your travels on the right foot. Don’t have time to read the full article? Here’s a quick overview of some highlights:
| Highlights | Airline |
| Top Overall Airline | Lufthansa |
| Best Airline for Business Class | Qatar Airways |
| Cheapest Airline to Europe | Icelandair |
| Most Accessible Airline to Europe | Delta Air Lines |
| Best Airline for In-flight Service | Turkish Airlines |
| Best Low-Cost Airline | Ryanair |
| Most Sustainable Airline | KLM |
| Best Airline for Comfort | Emirates |
| Best Airline for Direct Routes | British Airways |
| Best Airline for Frequent Flyer Program | Air France/KLM (Flying Blue) |
1. Lufthansa
Lufthansa is absolutely killing it right now with their new Allegris cabins rolling out across their Munich hub. I’ve flown the new A350 business class twice this year, and honestly, it’s a massive upgrade from their old 2-2-2 setup. You get seven different seat types in business class alone – from “throne” seats with extra privacy to suites with sliding doors that actually feel like your own room.
The big news for 2025 is they’re guaranteeing Allegris cabins on flights from Munich to San Francisco, Chicago, San Diego, Shanghai, and Bengaluru. I tested the new first-class suites, and they’re charging up to €2,900 extra for the double suite if you’re traveling alone – pretty steep, but the experience is wild.
From the U.S., Lufthansa flies direct from over 20 airports including New York, Boston, Miami, Los Angeles, Denver, Houston, and Seattle. You’ll connect through Frankfurt or Munich to reach pretty much anywhere in Europe. I’ve been seeing economy fares from the East Coast drop to around $450 roundtrip during shoulder season, though peak summer can hit $900+.
The A380s from Munich are still my go-to for comfort. They’re flying daily to Boston, JFK, Los Angeles, Washington, and Denver this summer. My Pro tip: if you want the latest Allegris product, book the Munich A350s specifically.
- Read next: What to Know About Flying Business Class with Lufthansa
- You may also like: My Guide to Finding Cheap Business Class Tickets
2. Icelandair
Icelandair’s stopover program is still the best travel hack in the business, and I use it constantly. You can add up to seven days in Iceland at zero extra airfare when flying between the U.S. and Europe – it’s basically getting two trips for one price. I’ve done this at least ten times, and I usually plan 24-48 hours in Reykjavík to hit the Golden Circle or chase waterfalls before continuing to Europe.
They’re serving major U.S. cities like Boston, New York (both JFK and Newark), Chicago, Denver, Orlando, and Seattle in 2025. From Reykjavík, you can connect to Amsterdam, Rome, Milan, the Canary Islands, and tons of other European spots. I’ve seen roundtrip economy deals as low as $378 from Boston to Reykjavík this fall, with mid-$400s pretty common from cities like Nashville or Chicago.
The food onboard is actually solid – they showcase Icelandic cuisine with lamb dishes and local beer selections. I always book Economy Light for the cheapest fares, then add what I need. Icelandair’s Saga Class is also solid for the price, though it’s nothing too crazy. The cabin crew is friendly in that low-key Nordic way, and the aircraft are modern and clean.
The stopover program is ridiculously easy to book on their website. Just tick the “stopover” box and pick your length of stay. I’ve turned $400 flights into incredible double vacations, and it never gets old.
- Read also: My Favorite Budget Airlines in Europe
- You may also like: My Best Strategies to Fly to Europe from the US
3. Condor
I’m constantly surprised that more people don’t know about Condor. They’re basically Lufthansa‘s budget cousin but with way better value and newer planes. I’ve flown them from New York JFK, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, and Seattle direct to Frankfurt and Munich, and the experience consistently exceeds my expectations.
Their 2025 fleet refresh with A330-neos is a game-changer. You get lie-flat business class, premium economy, free 4K screens even in economy, and reliable Wi-Fi. I’ve seen their Economy Light fares drop as low as $260 one-way from Boston to Frankfurt, with premium economy starting around $400 and business class near $1,450. That’s honestly insane value for proper long-haul service with lie-flats.
Yes, there are add-on fees – seat selection runs about $35, and carry-on weight limits apply. But meals are included, and the business class feels like stealing. From Frankfurt, they serve around 90 international destinations across Europe, hitting all the major spots in France, Italy, Spain, and Greece.
I typically fly Condor in spring or fall when fares dip and European weather is still great. If you catch one of their sub-$300 each-way deals, don’t hesitate. It’s quality long-haul with quiet cabins and direct routing from both coasts to the heart of Europe.
4. Delta Air Lines
Delta is my go-to when I need things to just work. They’re operating nearly 250 weekly flights to Europe from hubs like Atlanta, New York JFK, Detroit, Boston, Minneapolis, and Seattle. Summer 2025 brings some exciting new routes including JFK to Naples (hello Amalfi Coast access), plus restored service to Shannon and new Munich flights.
Their Delta One business class to Europe starts around 50,000 Virgin Atlantic points, which is actually a killer deal if you transfer from credit card programs. I’ve been seeing economy fares from the East Coast in the $500-800 range, though I got lucky with a $299 Boston to Paris deal through Going.com last year.
Delta‘s network is massive – they serve beautiful European cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Dublin, Madrid, Milan, Nice, and now Catania in Sicily. The A350s on longer routes are comfortable, and their partnership with Air France and KLM means seamless connections throughout Europe.
What I love about Delta is their operational reliability. Flight delays happen less frequently, and when they do, their rebooking system is smooth. Plus, if you’re flying Delta One, the flat-bed seats and chef-curated meals make the overnight flight actually restful. Sky Club lounges are solid for pre-flight relaxation too.
- My Pro TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $299 roundtrip fare from Boston to Paris with Delta. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.
5. Air France
Air France brings that French sophistication to transatlantic flying, and their business class is genuinely luxurious. I’ve flown their Boeing 777s and A350s to Paris CDG, and the lie-flat seats, premium bedding, and French wine selection make it feel special. Their menu features actual French cuisine – not airplane approximations.
They’re serving most major U.S. cities to Paris with connections throughout Europe, Africa, and their Caribbean network. I’ve been tracking their prices and seeing economy deals from the East Coast dip below $400 roundtrip during shoulder seasons, which is competitive for a full-service carrier.
The Flying Blue program (shared with KLM) is actually one of the better European frequent flyer programs. You can earn and redeem across both airlines plus SkyTeam partners. I’ve used Flying Blue miles to book Delta flights for great value.
Air France‘s ground service at CDG is efficient, and their Air France Lounge network is top-notch. The La Première first class is ridiculously over-the-top if you want to splurge, but even economy comes with decent meals and wine. They’re particularly strong for connections to Africa and French-speaking countries if you’re planning multi-destination trips.
- Check out my guide: Air France Business Class in 2025
- Read also: The Most Beautiful Destinations in Europe
6. KLM
KLM consistently delivers that reliable Dutch efficiency I’ve come to appreciate. They’re leading the sustainability charge in aviation with their goal of zero net CO2 emissions by 2050, and you can feel that commitment in their operations. Their Amsterdam hub at Schiphol is one of Europe’s most efficient for connections.
From the U.S., they’re serving New York, Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and San Francisco direct to Amsterdam. The Boeing 787 Dreamliners on longer routes are comfortable with good entertainment systems and decent food. Their business class isn’t the flashiest, but it’s solid and reliable.
KLM prices tend to run slightly higher than budget competitors, but you get what you pay for – better service, more comfortable seats, and included amenities. I’ve found their shoulder season deals from U.S. East Coast cities in the $450-600 range for economy.
Their Flying Blue partnership with Air France gives you access to a huge European network. From Amsterdam, you can easily reach Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Stockholm, and basically anywhere in Europe. The crew is professional and efficient, and their on-time performance is consistently good. Plus, Amsterdam is beautiful if you want to add a stopover.
- Read next: My Favorite European Hidden Gems in 2025
7. British Airways
British Airways flies direct from more U.S. cities to London than anyone else – New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Miami, and Phoenix. Their Heathrow hub connects to virtually everywhere in Europe, making them super convenient for multi-city trips.
I’ve flown their Club Suite business class on the newer A350s and Boeing 787s, and it’s genuinely impressive with direct aisle access and decent privacy. The Club World product on older planes is more dated but still functional. Economy is cramped but tolerable on shorter hops to London.
Pricing runs $500-800 for economy roundtrips from most U.S. cities, though I’ve caught deals as low as $350 during winter sales. British Airways business class typically runs $1,700-3,000 depending on route and timing. Their Avios program can offer good value for short European hops if you collect points.
London Heathrow is massive and can be chaotic, but BA‘s Galleries Lounge network is solid if you have access. From London, you can reach Edinburgh, Dublin, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Barcelona – basically anywhere you want to go in Europe. They’re reliable and professional, even if not the most exciting airline to fly.
- Read next: My Guide to British Airways Business Class
- You may also like: The Cheapest Places to Fly Into Europe in 2025
8. Swiss International Air Lines
Swiss operates a smaller but high-quality network from Zurich and Geneva. From the U.S., you’re mostly connecting through Zurich on flights from New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Their Airbus A330s and Boeing 777s feature comfortable cabins and that Swiss attention to detail.
The business class experience with Swiss is excellent – lie-flat seats, high-quality Swiss amenities, and meals that actually taste good. Their Helvetic Airways connections from Zurich reach over 100 destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.
Swiss isn’t the cheapest option – expect to pay premium prices for their premium service. But if you want reliability, comfort, and that Swiss efficiency, they deliver consistently. I’ve flown them to connect onward to the Swiss Alps, and it feels like the perfect introduction to Switzerland.
Zurich Airport is incredibly efficient and well-connected, making transfers smooth. The Swiss lounges are elegant with great mountain views. Their hard product might not be the flashiest, but everything works perfectly. It’s particularly good if you’re heading to these beautiful places to visit in Switzerland or using Zurich as a gateway to Eastern Europe.
9. Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines is massively underrated for Europe travel. Their Istanbul hub connects to over 300 destinations in 120+ countries, including tons of European cities. From the U.S., they serve New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Miami, and Washington DC.
What sets them apart is value – you get two free checked bags, decent meals, good entertainment, and competitive pricing. I’ve seen economy fares to Europe via Istanbul for $600-800 including those bags, which beats most competitors when you factor in baggage fees.
Their business class is genuinely impressive with lie-flat seats, excellent Turkish cuisine, and attentive service. The Istanbul layover program is genius – they offer free city tours during long connections so you can see the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and other highlights between flights.
Istanbul Airport is huge and modern, and the Turkish Airlines lounge is one of the best I’ve experienced – massive space, great food, and even sleep pods. From Istanbul, you can reach Athens, Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Berlin – anywhere in Europe plus connections to Asia and Africa. The value proposition is hard to beat.
- Read my guide: The Cheapest Countries in Europe to Visit
10. JetBlue
JetBlue has really stepped up their European game with daily service to London, Paris, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, and Dublin from New York JFK and Boston. Their Airbus A321LR aircraft are configured specifically for transatlantic flying with a solid Mint business class product.
The JetBlue Mint suites feature lie-flat seats, personal doors, and elevated dining that honestly rivals legacy carriers. I’ve tried their JFK-London route and was impressed by the service level and attention to detail. Economy still gets you free Wi-Fi, decent snacks, and more legroom than most competitors.
JetBlue‘s pricing is competitive. I’ve seen winter sales with one-way flights starting as low as $44, and their regular fares undercut legacy carriers while maintaining higher service standards. Their partnership network allows connections to destinations beyond their direct routes throughout Europe.
What I appreciate about JetBlue is they’re bringing American-style service to transatlantic flying. The crew is friendly and approachable, the aircraft are clean and modern, and the whole experience feels fresh compared to some stodgy European carriers. They’re definitely worth considering for London, Paris, or Amsterdam trips.
11. Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus flies direct from New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Hartford to Dublin and Shannon. Their Airbus A330s are comfortable with a decent business class product and friendly Irish service. Dublin is perfectly positioned for exploring Ireland or connecting throughout Europe.
Their sustainability initiatives are noteworthy, and the shamrock on the tail isn’t just decoration – Aer Lingus really embraces Irish culture in their service. The crew is genuinely warm, the Irish breakfast is solid, and they serve Guinness onboard if you’re into that.
I’ve found good deals on Aer Lingus especially if you book in advance or travel off-peak. Their “AerSpace” extra legroom seats are worth the upgrade on longer flights. Business Class features lie-flat seats and access to their Dublin lounge.
Dublin makes a great European entry point – it’s beautiful, compact, and easy to navigate. You can explore Ireland itself or use Aer Lingus connections to reach London, Amsterdam, Rome, and other major European cities. The Shannon route is particularly nice for accessing Ireland’s western coast and avoiding Dublin crowds.
- Read my guide: How to Find Cheap Airfare in 2025
12. Iberia
Iberia offers excellent value for reaching Spain and connecting throughout Europe and Latin America. They fly from New York, Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Boston to Madrid, with connections to Barcelona, Seville, Palma, and smaller Spanish cities that other airlines don’t serve directly.
I’ve personally scored Iberia flights to Europe for as low as $190 one-way during sales, which is incredible value. Their Airbus A350s on longer routes are comfortable, and even economy includes meals and entertainment. Iberia’s Business Class features lie-flat seats and Spanish cuisine that’s actually tasty.
Madrid‘s Barajas Airport is efficient and their Iberia lounges are solid. Being a Oneworld member means you can connect with American Airlines, British Airways, and other partners. From Madrid, you have easy access to all of Spain plus connections to Portugal, Morocco, and Latin America.
Their Hola Madrid stopover program lets you add a few days in Madrid at no extra airfare, similar to Iceland‘s program but with Spanish flair. Iberia‘s service can be hit-or-miss, but their value and route network to Spain and beyond make them worth considering for Mediterranean trips.
13. Tap Air Portugal
TAP Air Portugal flies from seven U.S. airports including New York, Miami, Boston, San Francisco, Chicago, Newark, and Washington DC to Lisbon and Porto. Their Portugal Stopover program lets you stay up to five nights in Lisbon or Porto without additional airfare, making it easy to explore Portugal before continuing to other European destinations.
They serve over 90 European destinations, making TAP a solid choice for reaching smaller cities that major carriers skip. Their Airbus A330neos are modern with decent business class and reliable economy service. I’ve found their fares competitive, especially to Portugal directly.
Lisbon is an amazing European hub – beautiful, affordable, and perfectly positioned for exploring Portugal or connecting to Spain, Morocco, and the rest of Europe. TAP’s Miles&Go program lets you bid on business class upgrades, which can be a great value.
TAP‘s service reflects Portuguese hospitality – laid-back but professional. Their meals feature Portuguese wines and cuisine, and the overall experience is pleasant without being flashy. They’re particularly good for reaching Portugal, Brazil, Africa, or as an alternative to pricier Spanish or French connections.
14. Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways consistently ranks among the world’s best airlines, and their Doha hub connects the U.S. to over 40 European cities. From major U.S. airports, you’ll connect through Doha on their modern Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and Airbus A380s.
The Qsuite business class is honestly in a league of its own – it feels like a private room with sliding doors, lie-flat beds, and restaurant-quality service. Even economy features decent seats, good meals, and excellent entertainment. Their fleet averages just five years old, so you’re flying on some of the newest planes in the sky.
Qatar Airways serves European destinations including London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, and even smaller cities like Krakow and Belgrade. Pricing runs higher than budget carriers, but you get what you pay for in terms of service and comfort.
Their Doha hub at Hamad International Airport is stunning with excellent lounges and smooth connections. The Al Mourjan Lounge is probably the best business class lounge I’ve experienced globally. If you value luxury and don’t mind the Middle East connection, Qatar Airways delivers an exceptional experience to Europe.
Best Airlines for Specific Regions in Europe (By Region)
Here are the top airlines that fly to each of the respective regions of Europe:
Northern Europe
According to the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, the top airlines up north are Finnair, SAS (Scandinavian Airlines), and Norse Atlantic Airways. Personally, I love Finnair. I’ve flown through Helsinki countless times, and that quiet Nordic efficiency and modern fleet always makes me arrive refreshed and ready to go.
Western Europe
Skytrax crowns Air France as the best in Western Europe, followed by SWISS, British Airways, Lufthansa, Virgin Atlantic, KLM, and Aer Lingus. I’ll say this…I flew Air France business once, and their meal service alone made the journey feel like a mini French vacation before even landing.
Eastern Europe
The standout here is LOT Polish Airlines, with airBaltic, Air Serbia, and Wizz Air trailing behind. airBaltic’s all-A220 fleet from Riga is neat, efficient, and a smooth ride across the Baltics.
Southern Europe
Skytrax’s favorites: Turkish Airlines, followed by Iberia, Vueling, Volotea, Aegean, Iberia Express, ITA Airways, SunExpress, and Air Dolomiti. I’ve flown Turkish into Istanbul, and that “Stopover in Istanbul” program? Game-changer. A private room in the sky, plus free city time? Count me in!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the best airlines for flying to Europe
Here are some popular questions (and answers) about the best international airlines to Europe.
What’s the airline I fly most often to Europe?
Honestly, it depends on where I’m starting from and where I’m heading. If I want maximum connection options, I often choose Lufthansa into Frankfurt or Munich. For a fun two-in-one trip, I love Icelandair with a stopover in Reykjavík. And if I want a guaranteed premium experience, Air France or KLM are my go-tos.
How far in advance should I book flights to Europe?
For economy, I’ve had the best luck booking 3–5 months before my departure. For business class, I often watch fares up to 9 months out, especially for airlines that release premium seats early. I also sign up for flight deal alerts so I can pounce when there’s a mistake fare.
What is the safest airline to fly to Europe?
If safety is your top priority when flying to Europe, Finnair is my go-to recommendation. They’ve consistently ranked among the safest airlines in the world, thanks to their spotless accident record, modern fleet, and strict operational standards. In fact, the Jet Airliner Crash Data Evaluation Centre (JACDEC) named Finnair the safest airline in Europe in its safety rankings, citing their rigorous maintenance programs and strong safety culture.
Which airline has the best business class to Europe?
For me, it’s Qatar Airways and their Qsuite. It feels like your own private room in the sky. But for pure European carriers, Air France’s new 777 suites are incredible.
Is it worth paying extra for Premium Economy?
Yes, especially for overnight flights. The extra legroom, better recline, and improved meal service make a real difference in how rested I feel when I land. KLM’s Premium Comfort and Lufthansa’s Premium Economy are two of my favorites.
How do I make a long layover more enjoyable?
If I’m with Icelandair, I turn it into a 24–48 hour Icelandic mini-trip. With Turkish Airlines, I’ll book their free layover tour in Istanbul. For longer waits in Amsterdam, I splurge on access to the KLM Crown Lounge…worth every euro for the peace and quiet.
What airline has the best business class to Europe?
From my experience, Qatar Airways offers the best business class to Europe. Their Qsuite feels more like a private room in the sky than a seat on a plane. You get sliding doors, lie-flat beds, restaurant-quality meals, and service that never misses a beat.
I’ve flown Qsuite several times, and the comfort level is unmatched…even compared to other premium carriers. The seats are spacious enough to stretch out fully, the bedding is plush, and the crew somehow remembers your drink order without you asking twice. Plus, their routes connect smoothly to over 40 cities in Europe.
To find cheap business class fares to Europe, I highly recommend signing up for the Elite version of Going.com The other day, I received a notification for a $1,700 roundtrip business class flight from NYC to Madrid. The savings here was over $1,000, which easily covers the $199/year fee for the Elite membership. I’ve used this email service for 5 years, and it’s helped me save THOUSANDS of dollars on business class flights.
Happy Travels! – Jon
- Read next: My Going.com Review
