Introduction
From the loud streets of Tokyo and Hong Kong to the rice paddies and beaches, traveling from the UK to Asia really has endless options. With many airlines offering routes between the two regions, the best airline can really help to give your journey that special difference. Below is a rundown of some of the leading airlines between the UK and Asia regarding service, comfort, and value. The following overview will help you know which airline is best for you, from luxury to budget.
Understanding Your Options
You can choose from a number of airlines traveling between the UK and Asia. Major flag carriers, regional airlines, and budget options all offer their flights on these routes. Each has its strong point, so what is best will depend on how much you value comfort against price against convenience. Here’s a closer look at some of the best airlines flying between the UK and Asia.
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines is considered by many to be one of the world’s best airlines. It has gained this high status due to its invariably high level of service and comfort. This airline, based in Singapore, offers a wide range of flights from most major UK cities, such as London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, among others, to most destinations in Asia. The inflight amenities provided are of the highest level, including spacious seating, good quality in-flight entertainment, and a wide choice of meals. Singapore Airlines is also noted for its punctuality and great customer service, thus becoming a favorite of many travelers.
Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific is another major airline based out of Hong Kong, flying between the UK and Asia. With a great level of service and comfortable cabins, Cathay Pacific offers flights from cities like London and Manchester to places all over Asia. The airline offers different classes, ranging from economy to business and first class, hence ensuring maximum comfort to the passengers. With a great safety record and friendly staff, Cathay Pacific is a very reliable alternative for all those who travel to Asia.
Emirates
Though not based in Asia, Emirates is quite a big carrier that links the UK to most destinations in Asia. Based in Dubai, Emirates offers numerous flights out of the UK to cities like Bangkok, Singapore, and Delhi. What makes it prominent is the luxurious service that includes spacious seating, an extended entertainment system, and gourmet dining. Along with this, Emirates provides services and amenities that facilitate enhancing the experience of traveling, which makes it a highly preferred option among the seekers of comfort and convenience in travel.
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways, based in Doha, has emerged as one of the finest carriers from the UK to Asia. It offers flights connecting all major UK cities, such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, and others, to most destinations across Asia. One of the main strong points of this airline would have to be the quality in the form of service that is reflected in its comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment options that are simply superb, and the cuisine, which ranges across a very wide variety. Besides this, the airline holds an excellent on safety and is considered reliable; this explains its popularity among many tourists flying to various countries.
Turkish Airlines
Connecting in the mighty Istanbul, Turkish Airlines flies from the UK to various Asian destinations. With highly competitive prices and quality service, it offers something for everyone. Praised for comfortable seating, in-flight meal quality, and a decent entertainment system, Turkish Airlines is always on the top pick for someone seeking a mix of affordability and comfort on their way to Asia.
British Airways
As the flag carrier of the United Kingdom, British Airways offers direct flights to several Asian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Hong Kong. Having a strong reputation and large network, they offer services ranging from economy to premium and business classes. Comfortable travel is assured for passengers, with the availability of their extensive in-flight entertainment system and a choice of meals and beverages. British Airways is good for those travelers who prefer a direct flight option.
Choosing the Right Airline
When choosing the best airline to use for a journey from the UK to Asia, a lot needs to be considered in order to make the journey smoother and much more enjoyable. Begin by evaluating your budget and if you would require a premium experience or go down a class lower. The likes of Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific boast luxury and service, while budget carriers might offer the best deals.
Second, consider the time it takes for flights and whether they have layovers or not. It is always more convenient to take a direct flight, although this may cost a little more. Some airlines, such as British Airways and Emirates, have direct routes to certain Asian destinations. So, if you hate layovers, that may be a big plus. Those who don’t mind a longer flying time might want to consider airlines with layovers, like Turkish Airlines, which charge competitive prices and offer extra services.
Also, check the baggage policies of each airline, their frequent flyer schemes, and in-flight services. Some airlines will allow a quite generous baggage allowance; others may be more limited. Some frequent flyer programs can also yield very useful benefits, like upgrades and lounge access, which bump up your travel experience.
Conclusion
Backed by comfort, cost, and convenience, the ability to choose the best airline for your journey from the UK to Asia is all about balance. The likes of Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates have a reputation for excellent service and luxurious extras that place them at the top of most people’s lists when a premium product is required. Others, like Turkish Airlines, offer competitive pricing with good service, while British Airways has the advantage of direct flights, which is important to many passengers.
Ultimately, the best airline for your journey will be a matter of personal preference and individual needs. Consider things like flight duration, in-flight services, and comfort level to make a more informed decision and have a pleasurable journey to your Asian destination. Safe journeys, happy flying!
Ray Brocklesby, the site owner, is a Brit who now lives in the Philippines. He is retired and lives with his wife Weng, Daughter Kristelle, nephews, Harvey and Boknoy, and mother-in-law. Ray also has a son and daughter living in the UK, and a son in New Zealand.
