Top 10 Airlines to Fly to Sydney, Australia in Style (2025)

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Dreaming of Sydney’s iconic Opera House, stunning beaches, and vibrant neighborhoods? Reaching Australia in style is easier than you’d think with the right airline. As a travel blogger who’s explored 66 countries, I know how much difference a quality airline can make, especially on long-haul flights.

For this guide, I analyzed flights from 100 major airports across the globe, with a focus on routes from the US and Europe, to bring you the top 10 airlines to fly to Sydney in 2025. Sydney’s main gateway, Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD), is one of Australia’s busiest, so booking early is a smart move to secure great seats and prices. Ready to travel in comfort and style? Here are the best airlines to make your journey to Sydney unforgettable from the moment you board!

Quick tip to find cheap flights to Sydney

Looking for cheap flights to Sydney right now? Before diving into all the airlines that fly to Sydney, I first want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 3 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $999 roundtrip fare from NYC to Sydney.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best Sydney flights in 2025.

1. 🇦🇺 Qantas

• 🏠 Hub: Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Qantas Frequent Flyer — oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Direct flights from multiple US cities, exceptional lounges, Project Sunrise
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Qantas’ “Points Planes” release massive award availability on select flights. Sign up for alerts to not miss out.

Who better to fly you to Australia than the national carrier with the flying kangaroo on its tail? Qantas has perfected the ultra-long-haul experience with direct flights from Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York to Sydney aboard their Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A380s.

The Qantas experience stands out for actually being designed around the challenges of such epic journeys. The newest Business Suites feature lie-flat beds with direct aisle access and a mattress pad that transforms your seat into a genuine bed. First Class on the A380 takes luxury to another level with rotating seats that become private dining tables, then convert to plush beds with turndown service. Premium Economy delivers a true upgrade with innovative seats that cradle your body during sleep rather than just reclining backward.

The ground experience matches the inflight excellence. International First lounges in Sydney and Melbourne feature à la carte restaurants with menus designed by Neil Perry, while Business lounges offer proper barista coffee that puts other airlines’ brown water to shame.

Qantas Points offer reasonable value despite recent devaluations, with frequent transfer bonuses from credit card partners. The insider moves? Watch for “Points Planes” with massive award availability, and consider their unique “construct your own stopover” option that lets you build multi-city Australian itineraries at minimal additional cost.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in Australia

2. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi (SIN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First, Suites
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer — Star Alliance network
• ☕ Perks: Singapore stopover, legendary service, Book the Cook
• 🧠 Pro Tip: The Fifth Freedom route from Los Angeles to Tokyo continues to Singapore with the same crew and aircraft, often priced lower than direct options with the bonus of experiencing Japan en route.

If airlines were luxury hotels, Singapore Airlines would be the Four Seasons. The signature service culture transforms the grueling journey to Australia into something genuinely pleasant, with daily connections from Singapore to Sydney on their newest A380s and A350s.

Service starts the moment you board, where cabin crew greet you in crisp kebaya uniforms and treat every interaction with care. Business Class seats are nearly 30 inches wide and fully flat, complete with turndown service. Suites Class takes it even further with separate seats and beds, sliding doors, and hotel-level privacy. Even Economy doesn’t fall short, with better support, legroom, and entertainment than most carriers.

The Singapore connection showcases the award-winning Changi Airport. Here, the stunning SilverKris lounges feature private work pods, shower suites with luxury amenities, and dining that makes you forget you’re in an airport. The jewel in Changi’s crown is definitely the “Stopover Program” offering heavily discounted hotel packages, making it easy to break up the journey with a few days in Singapore at minimal extra cost.

KrisFlyer miles hold solid value, especially during credit card transfer promos. And with Book the Cook, premium passengers can pre-order restaurant-style meals. Fares usually range from $1,100–1,800 in Economy and $4,000–7,000 in Business.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Asia

3. 🇦🇺 Jetstar

• 🏠 Hub: Melbourne (MEL), Sydney (SYD), Gold Coast (OOL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business (limited routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Qantas Points — Optional earning
• ☕ Perks: Rock-bottom prices, extensive Australian network, modern fleet
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their “Business Max” bundle adds lounge access, priority everything, and maximum baggage while still costing 40% less than traditional business class

Want to stretch your Aussie adventure budget without feeling like you’re flying in a sardine can? Qantas’ plucky low-cost subsidiary Jetstar offers the perfect compromise for budget-conscious travelers who still want a decent experience. While they don’t fly direct from the US, they’re the smart play for the final leg to Sydney when connecting from international carriers.

Don’t let the “budget airline” tag fool you. Jetstar flies one of Australia’s youngest fleets, with factory-fresh Airbus A320s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners featuring leather seats, USB charging, and surprisingly decent pitch compared to other LCCs. Business Class (available on 787 routes) delivers a genuine premium experience with wide recliner seats and full meal service at prices that make traditional business look absurdly overpriced.

The Jetstar experience centers on choice. The base fare gets you from A to B with a personal item, then you decide exactly what matters: checked bags, meals, extra legroom, entertainment, or nothing extra at all. They also offer premium bundles like “Plus” and “Max” that add traditional airline perks without the traditional airline prices. For domestic Australian hops, they’re often 40-60% cheaper than Qantas with minimal service differences on shorter flights.

While technically a budget airline, Jetstar optionally integrates with the Qantas loyalty ecosystem. You can earn Qantas Points on higher fare bundles and use Qantas Club membership for lounge access. The real value lies in their frequent sales, with domestic Australian flights sometimes dropping below $30 one-way and international routes under $150.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Japan
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Vietnam

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4. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Skywards — Partners with multiple airlines
• ☕ Perks: Dubai stopover, chauffeur service, A380 experience
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the DXB-SYD route on the A380 for access to the onboard shower spa in First Class and stand-up bar in Business, then use the stopover program for a free Dubai beach break

Why settle for one adventure when Emirates can give you two? The multiple daily flights between Dubai and Sydney create the perfect opportunity to combine Australia with a Middle Eastern stopover, experiencing vastly different cultures in a single trip.

Long flights feel a lot shorter with Emirates. In First Class, you’ll get a private suite with sliding doors, a minibar, and access to the famous shower spa at 40,000 feet. Business Class passengers enjoy lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, and an onboard lounge where you can stretch your legs and sip cocktails. Premium Economy is a newer offering with wider seats, deeper recline, and upgraded meals—pretty ideal for travelers who want more comfort without the Business Class price.

The Dubai stopover program is a major bonus, with heavily discounted luxury hotel stays and optional airport transfers. Premium flyers also get complimentary chauffeur service in both Dubai and Sydney, plus access to lounges that offer full restaurant-style meals and premium drinks. 

Skywards miles deliver decent value, particularly for upgrades from Economy to Business. Meanwhile, Cash fares typically run $1,300-2,100 in Economy and $4,500-8,000 in Business. 

5. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Plus, Premium Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus — Star Alliance network
• ☕ Perks: Most frequent US-Australia service, newest aircraft, excellent availability
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the “Premium Plus Premium” fare (W class) to sit in Premium Economy and earn full Premier Qualifying Points, which helps accelerate your path to elite status.

United has become one of the most reliable ways to reach Sydney from the United States. With daily nonstop flights from both San Francisco and Los Angeles, United’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners make the long journey more manageable thanks to improved air quality, lower cabin altitude, and better humidity levels.

Polaris Business Class features direct aisle access, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and cooling gel pillows that make sleeping at altitude much easier. Premium Plus offers a solid upgrade from Economy with wider seats, extra legroom, better meals, and priority services. Even in regular Economy, the Dreamliner experience stands out thanks to larger windows and ambient lighting that helps reset your body clock.

Flying out of San Francisco is especially convenient with access to United’s top-tier Polaris Lounge. Expect restaurant-style dining, high-quality coffee, and private shower suites. United also partners with Virgin Australia for smooth onward connections throughout Australia, with protected itineraries in case of delays.

MileagePlus members can often find award flights to Sydney starting at 40,000 miles one way in Economy and 80,000 in Business during off-peak periods. For the best value, Premium Plus in W class delivers a much better experience than Economy and helps you earn status faster without breaking the bank.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in San Francisco
• You may also like: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Los Angeles

6. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Vancouver (YVR), Toronto (YYZ)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Signature Class (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan — Star Alliance network
• ☕ Perks: Vancouver stopover option, modern fleet, competitive premium cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: The “Latitude” economy fare costs around 25% more but is upgradeable with significantly fewer points than standard economy. It’s often the cheapest path to Business Class.

The Canadian route to Australia is often overlooked, but it delivers real value and comfort. Air Canada offers daily flights from Vancouver to Sydney on modern Boeing 777s and 787s, with the option to stop over in British Columbia before continuing to the Southern Hemisphere.

Long-haul comfort has come a long way with Air Canada. Their Signature Class includes lie-flat seats with aisle access, turndown service, and genuine sleep comfort thanks to mattress pads and quality bedding. Premium Economy comes with wider seats, more recline, a quieter cabin, and upgraded meals. Meanwhile, Economy earns praise for its newer seats, solid legroom, and personal entertainment systems.

Vancouver International Airport is a smooth hub to connect through or explore. The layout is efficient, security is less chaotic than larger airports, and the Maple Leaf Lounges offer better-than-expected food and attentive service. Premium passengers can also enjoy barista coffee, clean showers, and a quieter pre-flight experience.

The refreshed Aeroplan program offers solid redemption value, especially when you take advantage of credit card transfer bonuses. You can also customize your award bookings with a points plus cash mix, giving you more flexibility. For excellent value, watch for Worldwide Seat Sales that discount premium cabins by up to 30 percent. 

• Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

7. 🇦🇪 Etihad Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Abu Dhabi (AUH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Space, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Etihad Guest — Independent with multiple partnerships
• ☕ Perks: Abu Dhabi stopover, dine-on-demand, excellent amenities
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Etihad’s “Neighbor-Free” program lets you bid to keep nearby seats empty. It’s a smart way to get extra space in Economy and even lie down for a fraction of the cost of premium cabins.

While Emirates often takes the spotlight, Etihad Airways offers a quieter, more refined experience on the route from Abu Dhabi to Sydney, flown on their modern Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The airline leans into substance over flash, delivering a polished journey that feels premium without being over-the-top.

Etihad’s Business Studios feature private pods with direct aisle access and adjustable firmness settings for perfect sleep. First Class takes luxury further with enclosed suites and dedicated onboard chefs preparing made-to-order meals. However, the game-changer across all cabins is definitely the dine-on-demand concept, where you decide when to eat rather than having meal service dictated by crew schedules. 

The Abu Dhabi connection creates interesting possibilities. The “Stopover on Us” program frequently offers free hotel nights when connecting to Sydney, letting you explore the UAE at minimal extra cost. Meanwhile, Premium passengers can access impressive lounges featuring restaurant-quality dining, quality barista coffee, and shower suites with high-end amenities. 

Etihad Guest miles hold strong value, especially when transferred during frequent credit card bonus events.  Cash fares to Sydney typically run $1,200-1,900 in Economy and $4,000-7,000 in Business. The sweet spot? Etihad’s “Economy Space” delivers extra legroom at reasonable upcharges, while their periodic “Global Sale” events occasionally drop premium cabins to prices that seem too good to be true

• Read next: Magical Places to Visit in the UAE

8. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Los Angeles (LAX), Dallas (DFW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Main Cabin Extra, Premium Economy, Flagship Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage — oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Flagship lounges, direct Dallas service, Qantas partnership
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for “Web Specials” that occasionally drop roundtrip Business Class to 120,000 miles, which is a rare and excellent use of AAdvantage miles.

American Airlines connects the United States to Sydney with daily nonstops from Los Angeles and Dallas through the Boeing 777-300ERs. American’s close partnership with Qantas also makes it easy to connect throughout Australia with minimal hassle.

The premium offerings have improved significantly over the years. Flagship Business now features fully flat beds, all-aisle-access seating, and bedding by Casper that actually makes sleep possible and pretty comfortable. Premium Economy offers more width, extra legroom, and upgraded meals, while Main Cabin Extra gives you just enough space to make long-haul travel tolerable. Even in standard Economy, international flights include complimentary beer and wine, a nice perk on a 15-hour flight.

Connecting through LAX gives you access to the impressive Flagship Lounge, complete with restaurant-style dining, cocktails, and shower suites. Dallas, while less flashy, offers smoother connections from the eastern US and strong reliability for domestic legs. Both hubs feature dedicated check-in and expedited processing for premium passengers.

The real win with AAdvantage miles comes from premium redemptions. Business Class awards to Sydney can drop as low as 120,000 miles roundtrip during Web Specials, which is almost half the usual rate. For better onboard comfort, consider booking Qantas-operated flights with an American flight number.

9. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: World Traveller (Economy), World Traveller Plus (Premium Economy), Club World (Business), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club — oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: London stopover, Singapore connection, new Club Suites
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the LHR–SIN–SYD route instead of a direct option. It’s often 20 percent cheaper and gives you a better onboard experience with the bonus of a few days in Singapore.

Three continents in one trip? That’s the beauty of British Airways’ classic Kangaroo Route from London to Sydney via Singapore. This legendary path has shuttled generations of sun-seekers down under, and now it’s a smarter, more stylish journey than ever.

The big news? BA finally fixed their Business Class. Club Suites now come with sliding doors and direct aisle access, so you can skip the awkward acrobatics when heading to the bathroom mid-flight. World Traveller Plus is a solid upgrade for travelers who want comfort without a huge price jump, while Economy still includes complimentary drinks to take the edge off that long-haul stretch.

The best part? Breaking up the trip in Singapore adds almost no extra cost. A two or three-night stopover turns your journey into a three-in-one vacation. Explore the city, reset your body clock, and arrive in Sydney feeling more refreshed than rushed. 

Avios points are better spent on shorter regional flights once you’re in Australia, but they can still add value. Watch for upgrade promos that let you book Economy and land in Premium Economy for just a few hundred dollars more. And yes, that AARP discount still works, even if you’re nowhere near retirement—$16 to join, $200 off premium fares. No complaints here.

• Read next: Budget-Friendly Destinations from the UK
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Australia
• For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Singapore

10. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles — SkyTeam alliance
• ☕ Perks: Most reliable US airline, free messaging, excellent customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Booking Premium Select in the “P” fare class earns status credits at the same rate as Delta One, giving frequent flyers a faster path to Medallion perks.

When you’re heading to Australia, reliability matters. Delta Air Lines connects Los Angeles to Sydney on their state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900s, combining long-haul comfort with the kind of operational consistency that makes international travel less stressful.

Delta’s experience stands out for its balance of comfort and service. Delta One Suites come with sliding privacy doors, lie-flat beds, and memory foam bedding from Westin Heavenly, making it easier to actually sleep on the 15-hour journey. Premium Select offers wider seats, deeper recline, and leg rests that provide a real boost in comfort. Even in Main Cabin, Delta offers complimentary beer, wine, and spirits, along with better meals than most competitors.

Departing from LAX is becoming more pleasant too. Delta’s renovated terminals and the impressive new Sky Club offer open-air deck space with views of the Hollywood Hills and runway traffic. Their strong track record for on-time departures and helpful customer support means fewer delays and smoother recoveries when things go wrong.

SkyMiles isn’t known for the best redemption rates to Australia, but frequent flash sales can help. For frequent flyers chasing elite status, booking the P fare class in Premium Select can be a game changer. It earns qualifying miles at the same rate as Business Class, helping you reach higher Medallion tiers more quickly. Just be sure to leave buffer time if you’re connecting through LAX, especially during busy hours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Best Airlines to Fly to Sydney

If you’re still curious about what airlines fly to Sydney, here are some common questions that might help you decide.

What is the best airline to fly to Sydney?

Choosing the best airline to fly to Sydney often depends on your preferences, starting location, and budget. However, some airlines consistently receive high praise for their routes to Sydney:

• Qantas: Australia’s flagship carrier, known for its exceptional service and comfort.
• Singapore Airlines: Renowned for its top-tier in-flight service and luxurious amenities.
• Emirates: Offers a luxurious experience with the option of a Dubai layover.
• United: Direct routes from major U.S. hubs and the luxury of Polaris Business Class.
• Air Canada: A top choice for Canadian travelers with a commitment to sustainability.

Which airlines fly direct to Sydney from the US?

Several airlines offer direct flights from the U.S. to Sydney, ensuring a seamless journey for travelers:

• United Airlines: Direct flights from San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX).
• American Airlines: Direct connections from Los Angeles (LAX).
• Delta Airlines: Non-stop service from Los Angeles (LAX).

Where is the best place to fly into Sydney?

The primary international gateway to Sydney is Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD). It’s conveniently located about 8 km from the city center, making it the ideal entry point for travelers.

Is it possible to find direct flights to Sydney from the UK?

Currently, no airlines offer direct flights from the UK to Sydney. Most flights have a layover, commonly in cities like Dubai, Singapore, or Hong Kong. These include Singapore Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, and Etihad.

Are there any methods I can use to find cheap Sydney flights?

Absolutely! Here are some strategies to snag a deal:

• Book in Advance: Prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches.
• Use Flight Comparison Websites: Platforms like Skyscanner or Kayak can help you find the best deals.
• Flexible Dates: Flying mid-week or outside of peak seasons can be cheaper.
• Set Fare Alerts: Get notifications when prices drop for your desired route.
• Use Airline Miles or Points: Redeem them for discounted or free flights.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into a nearby airport and then taking a domestic flight or other transport can be cheaper.
• Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights): Subscribe to get alerts on deeply discounted flights, including to Sydney.
• Off-Peak Hours: Flights during odd hours, like late-night or very early morning, might offer savings.
• Travel Light: Some airlines offer cheaper tickets if you don’t check in luggage.
• Join Airline Newsletters: Be the first to know about promotions or special deals.

What month is the cheapest to fly to Sydney?

Typically, May and November are considered off-peak months and can offer cheap flights to Sydney. However, always check for deals or promotions, as airlines might have varying offers.

What airlines fly to Sydney Australia?

Numerous airlines fly to Sydney, Australia, as it’s one of the major international gateways to the country. The specific airlines that service Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) can vary based on your departure location and whether you’re looking for direct or connecting flights. Here are some of the major airlines that operate flights to and from Sydney:

1. Qantas: Australia’s flagship carrier offers numerous domestic and international flights to and from Sydney.
2. Virgin Australia: Another major Australian airline with extensive domestic and some international services.
3. Jetstar: A low-cost subsidiary of Qantas, offering both domestic and international flights.
4. Air New Zealand: Connects Sydney with various destinations in New Zealand.
5. Delta Air Lines: Provides services between Sydney and several U.S. cities.
6. United Airlines: Operates flights between Sydney and the U.S.
7. American Airlines: Connects Sydney with the U.S.
8. Emirates: Links Sydney with Dubai and onward connections.
9. Cathay Pacific: Flies between Sydney and Hong Kong.
10. Singapore Airlines: Connects Sydney with Singapore.
11. Etihad Airways: Operates flights between Sydney and Abu Dhabi.
12. Thai Airways: Links Sydney with Bangkok.
13. British Airways: Connects Sydney with various destinations, often with a stopover in Asia.
14. AirAsia X, Scoot, and Cebu Pacific: Budget carriers offering services to various Asian destinations.
15. China Southern, China Eastern, and Air China: Connect Sydney with various cities in China.

Best Airlines to Fly to Sydney, Australia: Recap

Navigating the myriad of airline options to Sydney can initially seem overwhelming. Yet, with the right information at your fingertips, securing that dream flight becomes a breeze. Each airline, from the luxury of Emirates to the convenience of United, offers unique advantages tailored to different traveler needs.

Remember, the best airline for you hinges on your starting location, budget, and personal preferences. For those in the U.S., direct flights from major hubs can simplify the journey. Meanwhile, UK travelers might prioritize airlines with strategic layovers, turning a necessary stop into a mini-adventure.

Beyond the flight itself, finding the best deals is paramount. Utilizing tools like flight comparison websites, fare alerts, and subscription services like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) can lead to significant savings. Being flexible with travel dates and considering off-peak months can further reduce costs.

In the end, the journey to Sydney is not just about reaching a destination. It’s about the experience along the way. By choosing the right airline and securing the best deals, you’re setting the stage for an unforgettable Australian adventure.