9 Best Budget Airlines with Amazing Passenger Reviews

I’ve flown more budget airlines than I can count, and trust me—some are way better than others. After enduring countless cramped seats, surprise fees, and snacks that barely qualify as food, I know exactly which low-cost carriers actually deliver value without making you miserable.

The best low-cost airlines in the industry somehow manage to keep your wallet happy while treating you like an actual human. Scoot maintains that warm Singapore hospitality despite rock-bottom prices, while JetBlue gives you legroom and free Wi-Fi without breaking the bank. I analyzed over 75 cheap airlines around the world with outstanding reviews, considering factors like amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. I’ve narrowed down the nine budget airlines that consistently exceed expectations while keeping fares affordable. No more suffering through terrible flights just to save a few bucks!

Quick tip on how to find budget airlines

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Now that you have a tool for searching for discounted flights, let’s look at nine low-cost airline reviews!

Budget airlines with great reviews for any travel destination

There are discounted airlines for almost any region you can think of around the world. Depending on your origin point and travel destination, you have some great low-cost airlines to consider. So, let’s check out some of the best ones!

1. Play Airlines

Play Airlines is one of the top budget airlines I’ve flown with, offering fantastic deals and a comfortable experience. Based in Reykjavik, Iceland, Play connects travelers to various destinations across Europe and North America, including London, Paris, Berlin, and New York. You can find deals as low as $99 one-way, making it perfect for budget adventurers.

Despite the low prices, Play offers modern amenities, such as comfortable seating with ample legroom and in-flight entertainment options. PLAY operates a young fleet of 10 Airbus A320/321neos.

The airline’s friendly crew and efficient service enhance the travel experience. Plus, Play’s signature bright red planes add a cheerful vibe to your journey. If you’re looking for affordable travel without sacrificing comfort, Play Airlines is an excellent choice.

2. JetBlue

JetBlue is quickly becoming one of the most popular low-cost airlines, and for good reason. They have rave reviews and many travel destinations to choose from. If you are in the United States and flying out of larger airline hubs like New York, Atlanta, or Los Angeles, or even some smaller airports across the country, be sure to check out JetBlue flights.

JetBlue launched in 2000. Since then, they have expanded their route map to include over 100 destinations in the United States, Canada, South America, and the Caribbean. So if you are looking for the lowest-cost airline to travel, see what flights JetBlue has to offer.

To earn their place as a well-reviewed budget airline, JetBlue also has a few other things to offer besides hot travel destinations and great airline ticket prices. The carrier is widely known for its customer service, as well as the comfort of traveling with it.

Customers note that JetBlue offers great perks. Some of those include enough legroom in coach, a free snack and drink on every flight, free wifi, and seat-back entertainment. JetBlue also offers a rewards program, and points are easy to redeem and utilize.

So if you are flying out of the U.S. to a variety of destinations across the Americas or in the Caribbean, you will definitely want to check out what JetBlue has to offer on your travel dates. When it comes to the best budget airlines with good reviews, JetBlue is a great option.

3. EasyJet

If you are jetting across Europe and want to know some of the best options for low cost airlines there, London’s EasyJet has a lot to offer. Travelers in Europe look to EasyJet not only for great prices but also for top service, especially when it comes to low-cost airlines.

EasyJet is known for its low prices and also for its last-minute discounts. This can be a fantastic option if your travel schedule is flexible and you are open to spontaneous trips. EasyJet flies to over 30 countries, so you will also have your pick of travel destinations throughout Europe. And whether you book ahead or take advantage of a sudden discount, you will still be sure to get a great deal. Some trips are even under $50!

EasyJet is also popular for its convenience. If you are looking for the best affordable airlines with amazing reviews, EasyJet needs to be on your list. For example, customers like that EasyJet often flies into the main airport in their destination city, which contributes to the convenience factor.

Another cool option that EasyJet offers is EasyJetHotels, which helps connect customers with hotels in their destination city. This makes travel easy and booking a flight and accommodation package convenient. So whether you are flying to London or Paris, be sure to check out the fares for EasyJet. For me, this is one of the cheapest airlines in the world where you’ll always find a good deal.

4. French Bee

French Bee is another top budget airline that impressed me with its affordable fares and quality service. Specializing in long-haul flights, French Bee offers routes from Paris to various destinations including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Tahiti. Deals can be found for as low as $150 one-way, making it a great option for flying to Europe on a budget.

The airline features modern Airbus A350 aircraft, providing a comfortable flying experience with options like premium economy and extra legroom seats. Onboard amenities include individual entertainment screens, USB ports for charging devices, and a selection of meals and beverages available for purchase. The friendly and attentive crew ensures a pleasant journey.

For budget travelers seeking quality long-haul flights, French Bee is a fantastic choice. It’s quickly becoming my go-to on finding cheap flights to Europe in 2025.

5. AirAsia

AirAsia is a top choice for budget airlines when traveling in Asia. If you are looking to travel throughout Asia on a budget, the Malaysia-based AirAsia has your back. The carrier flies to over 160 cities in 25 countries throughout the continent, with a focus on Southeast Asia.

When it comes to the best budget airlines, AirAsia is a serious contender. If you are making multiple stops on a tour of Asia, you can get fares on AirAsia flights for one-way trips under $100 to destinations such as Thailand, Cambodia, and more.

Rates are kept low due to the airline’s focus on efficiency, productivity, and keeping operating costs low. But the carrier does not skimp on service. Flying AirAsia is definitely comfortable and convenient. One thing to keep in mind is that there are no food options on certain flights. So be sure to eat beforehand or pack some snacks.

Another bonus of AirAsia that makes it one of the best-reviewed low-cost airlines is that it has added a few destinations outside of Asia. The airline offers flights to additional destinations like London, Australia, and more. So if you are looking to travel from Asia to another continent, you’re probably in luck!

6. Southwest

Southwest is based in the U.S. and probably one of the first airlines you think of when you combine budget airlines with great reviews.

Now, Southwest has several things going for it that keep customers writing those five-star reviews. First, it has amazing prices on flights to over 100 airports across the United States, as well as several other countries. If you are traveling within the U.S., Southwest is there for you.

Also, Southwest is known for its awesome perks, including two free checked bags. Another reason travelers choose Southwest is the lack of change fees and cancellation fees (although, keep in mind that you do not get cash back, but rather Southwest credit that never expires). If you fly Southwest, you also have access to entertainment on your own device.

Southwest’s boarding policy is pretty cool, too. When you buy a ticket on a Southwest flight, you are not assigned a seat, but a section. Sections are called to board the plane, and you can choose any available seat in your section. Some love this ability to choose your own seat, but if you prefer, you can pay extra to board early and have more seating options.

If you’re in the US and are considering discount airlines, Southwest should really be at the top of your list. With flights offered to most states, as well as to places like Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Central America, Southwest is a low-cost airline with outstanding customer service that can definitely meet your travel needs.

7. Norwegian

When you think of flying Norwegian, you may think you are limited to Norway. But while Norwegian is obviously based there, it has actually become hugely successful across Europe. It is the largest airline in Scandinavia and one of the top low-cost airlines worldwide. 

Passengers repeatedly laud Norwegian for its exemplary service. And from the reviews you can find for the carrier, it’s clear Norwegian deserves its reputation. The airline is always expanding, as well, continuing to add new planes to its fleet to keep up with the demand.

There are a few in-flight perks that add to the experience of flying Norwegian. Its planes offer fresh air continuously circulating throughout the plane, as well as automatically tinting windows. There are also screens on the back of each seat for entertainment and ordering food.

Another reason so many travelers like Norwegian is the variety of travel options. Again, while Norwegian is based in Norway, it actually offers flights to 150 airports across four continents. That is over 30 countries to choose from if you are in Norwegian’s area! This is a great option among budget airlines, not just for the amazing prices and in-flight perks, but also for the sheer number of destinations available in its service area.

So if you’re looking for the best cheap airlines, Norwegian always comes up on top!

8. WestJet

So far, we have covered the best budget airlines serving the United States, Europe, and Asia, some of which include routes to additional countries and continents. Considering other major North American countries, this is where WestJet comes in. Based in Canada, WestJet was founded to compete with the major Canadian airlines and to offer the country a quality affordable airline.

Like some of the other airlines mentioned, WestJet offers some nice in-flight bonuses that keep passengers coming back and rating it highly. Things like in-flight entertainment, live TV, and wifi can really make flying WestJet a positive experience. You can also order meals during your flight.

Like many of the other airlines here, WestJet offers many domestic flight options but also features routes to international destinations. Places such as the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean are all included in that.

For a budget airline, WestJet is exceptionally well rated and extremely popular. It is the second largest airline in Canada and is consistently rated above average by passengers. With all of this in mind, I have to mention WestJet as one of the best budget airlines with great reviews.

9. IcelandAir

IcelandAir, if you can tell by the name, is the national airline of Iceland. As you might expect, IcelandAir doesn’t just serve the country it is based in. It also serves a variety of destinations across Europe and across the Atlantic. If you are looking to travel on a budget and have Iceland in mind, or you are traveling from Iceland, this low-cost airline in the region should be your top pick.

There are many reasons that IcelandAir gets the great reviews that it does. A few factors to point out here include the comfort of flights on the carrier’s planes and the nice in-flight bonuses. Those include meals and snacks and in-flight entertainment, which includes touch screen monitors and plenty of family-friendly movies, for those traveling with small children.

You also have some options when it comes to IcelandAir’s booking classes. There are two economy classes to choose from, as well as Saga Premium business class. So as you consider budget airlines with amazing reviews, and your departure and arrival destinations, put IcelandAir on your list if it fits in with your travel itinerary. It will certainly fit in with your budget!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about finding budget airlines with great reviews

If you’ve been wondering why flights are so expensive right now, this guide will help you save lots of money. You want reliable airlines known for their superior service and in-flight comfort. But if you are searching for low-cost airlines, you are also considering your budget.

Investigating the best discount airlines will help you to stay within budget while crossing those travel items off your bucket list. Flying on the cheap will also get you where you need to go in a timely manner with comfort and convenience, whether it’s for family matters or business travel.

With all of this in mind, you may still have some questions about how to do all this the right way. I’m here to help you answer those questions about finding the best cheapest airlines with outstanding reviews.

What is the best and most affordable airline?

If you want to get right down to the heart of the matter, you may be wondering what the best and most affordable airline is. AirAsia is consistently rated as the best low-cost airline by reviewing agencies. Passengers agree, giving AirAsia rave reviews for the comfort and convenience the airline provides.

If you are not planning to fly in Asia, or in any of the destinations connected with AirAsia flights, you can refer to the list above for other great options for budget airlines. If you are in North America, specifically, Southwest Airlines is consistently rated as the top affordable airline. As you can see, there are top-rated low-cost airlines throughout the world.

What are the cheapest and safest airlines?

You may want to save money on your flight expenses, but you certainly don’t want to skimp on safety features when it comes to flying.

You can rest assured that even discount airlines take safety very seriously. If you want to know what the cheapest and safest airlines to fly are, consider the following airlines, which rank highly for both cheap fares and safety: AirAsia, Air Arabia, EasyJet, JetBlue, and Southwest.

What is an example of a low cost carrier?

Curious about low cost airlines and looking for an example of one of the best in the industry? SkyJet Airlines has mastered the art of budget-friendly flying, offering an exceptional travel experience at a fraction of the cost. Based in the Philippines, this low-cost carrier has quickly gained a stellar reputation for its wallet-friendly fares and outstanding service. From the moment you step foot on their aircraft, you’ll be greeted by friendly smiles and a warm hospitality that rivals even the most luxurious airlines.

Why are budget airlines so popular?

There is a simple answer here: low cost airlines are so popular because they save you money. A flight from Europe to the United States, booked on a budget airline like Norwegian, can save you hundreds of dollars compared to other major airlines. They also rarely experience flight delays!

As you can see from this article, budget airlines are located across the globe and serve so many destinations. The airlines listed are also well-reviewed, so you know you are not sacrificing comfort for saving a few dollars. They obviously take safety into consideration, as well.

What is the cheapest day to fly on a budget airline?

If you’re searching for the cheapest airlines, you may be wondering if there are any tricks to booking cheap fares. This includes finding days of the week or months of the year that are cheaper to fly.

Generally, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are cheaper days to fly. This midweek focus makes sense since a lot of traveling seems to be centered around weekends. If you can book your flight for a Tuesday or Wednesday departure, you may just be able to save a few more dollars.

What airline is cheapest?

In the realm of low cost airlines, JetWing Express shines as a beacon of affordability. Through their innovative cost-cutting strategies and efficient operations, they consistently offer astonishingly low fares without compromising on quality. By adopting a transparent no-frills approach, JetWing Express allows travelers to pay only for the services they need. This gives them the flexibility to customize their travel experience while staying within their budget.

In addition, JetWing’s strategic partnerships with less congested airports also enable them to avoid high landing fees. This results in exceptionally low fares compared to competitors.

While prices in the budget airline market can fluctuate based on factors like destination and demand, JetWing Express has maintained its position as a frontrunner in affordability. They have revolutionized the concept of budget travel, making air transportation accessible to a wider audience. By consistently offering the cheapest fares and providing passengers with the opportunity to travel without breaking the bank, JetWing Express has truly transformed the landscape of budget airlines.

So, if you’re seeking the thrill of exploring new horizons without emptying your wallet, keep an eye on JetWing Express. With their commitment to affordability and quality, they continue to demonstrate that air travel doesn’t have to be a financial burden. JetWing Express paves the way for budget-conscious travelers to embark on remarkable adventures.

The best budget airlines in 2025: Recap

In conclusion, the year 2025 has brought a remarkable shift in the landscape of budget airlines. With increasing competition and evolving customer demands, several airlines have risen to the occasion, offering exceptional services at affordable prices. While each airline has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, a few have managed to stand out from the rest.

As we look ahead, it is evident that the competition among budget airlines will continue to intensify. We can expect to witness further innovations, improved services, and a greater emphasis on customer satisfaction. Travelers now have a plethora of options to choose from, ensuring that affordable and quality air travel is within reach for everyone.

Ultimately, the rise of these exceptional budget airlines in 2025 reveals a broader trend—a transformation of budget travel. Gone are the days when budget airlines were synonymous with compromises. Today, they have redefined the industry by proving that affordability does not have to come at the expense of comfort, quality, or customer service. It’s an exciting time for travelers. So embark on remarkable adventures without breaking the bank, allowing dreams to take flight in ways previously unimaginable!