The United Kingdom

is served by dozens of major ​​​​​​commercial airlines that take travelers all over the world. In this article, we will examine the busiest routes of the 10 airlines that, according to YouGov, have the highest brand recognition. We will also see that these 10 airlines, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company, contribute to over 35 million passengers and 179,000 flights scheduled to and from the UK for March 2025 alone.

10

Qantas

The “Spirit of Australia” airline

Founded in 1920, Qantas

is Australia’s flag carrier and one of the world’s oldest airlines. Known for its safety record, the airline operates a modern fleet including designs such as the Boeing 787

and the Airbus A220

.

Qantas serves six continents and is a key oneworld

alliance member. It offers premium first class (Airbus A380 only) and business class service, with renowned inflight catering.

Here are some fun facts about Qantas:

  • One of the oldest continuously operating airlines – Qantas was founded in 1920 and is the third-oldest airline in the world. It has operated continuously for over 100 years.
  • Name and meaning – Qantas stands for “Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services,” reflecting its origins in Australia’s outback.
  • Long non-stop flights – In 2019, Qantas completed “Project Sunrise,” a test flight from New York to Sydney that lasted nearly 20 hours, representing one of the longest flights ever with a commercial aircraft.
  • Flying kangaroo – Qantas’ logo features a red kangaroo, symbolizing its Australian roots. It was first introduced in 1944 and has evolved over the years.

The airline invests in sustainability and ultra-long-haul travel. With “Project Sunrise,” Qantas aims for non-stop Sydney-to-London flights, though for now, Sydney-London flights require a stop in Singapore. Despite challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Qantas remains a leader in long-haul international travel, emphasizing innovation, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency.

Qantas (Yam Dreaming Livery) Boeing 787-9 Inflight

Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying

According to Cirium, Qantas Airlines’ busiest UK routes in March are tied between London Heathrow – Perth and London Heathrow – Singapore – Sydney, with daily flights both ways on each route providing over 44,000 seats to travelers to and from the UK. Ranking 10th on our list based on its fame per YouGov but 6th in popularity (positive feedback) in the UK, Qantas is seen as a popular airline for international travel.

9

Jet2

Valuing “friendly low fares” since 2002

Ranking ninth on the list in airline fame (and fourth in popularity) among UK travelers is Jet2

. This British low-cost airline was established in 2002, focusing on European holiday destinations. It operates mainly from UK regional airports and offers flights to Spain, Greece, Italy, and other popular escapes. It also operates Jet2holidays, allowing customers to book package vacations. Jet2 emphasizes customer service, punctuality, and reliability.

Jet2 Airbus A321-231 (REG: CS-TRJ)

Photo: InsectWorld | Shutterstock

The airline’s fleet primarily consists of Boeing 737-800s, with ongoing modernization efforts including Airbus A321 and A321neo additions. Known for its generous baggage policies and comfortable seating, Jet2 continues expanding its European holiday market presence, offering competitive pricing and seamless travel experiences for leisure travelers.

Jet2’s busiest route in March is a tourist flight operating from Manchester Airport to Tenerife. The airline has scheduled 146 flights on this route, carrying 36,178 passengers to this beloved vacation spot. This low-cost carrier is making a market impact, earning 48% positive opinion (and rising) within the UK, and is a preferred airline for those on a tight budget.

8

Air France

Taking elegance to new heights

Founded in 1933, Air France

is France’s flag carrier and a SkyTeam

alliance member. Although it ranks eighth in fame (87% brand recognition measured by YouGov), Air France has a 38% popularity (positive opinion) rating among UK adults, which earns it a spot outside the top 10 list.

Air France Airbus A319 landing at London Heathrow.

Photo: Jake Hardiman | Simple Flying

Facts to know about Air France:

  • Founded in 1933 – Air France was formed on October 7, 1933, and is one of the world’s oldest airlines.
  • Part of Air France-KLM – In 2004, Air France merged with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, forming one of the largest airline groups in the world.
  • Concorde

    pioneer – Air France was one of only two airlines (alongside British Airways) to operate the supersonic Concorde airliner, offering ultra-fast transatlantic flights until 2003.

  • Luxury and innovation – Air France is known for its elegant service, pioneering in-flight dining with top chefs, and introducing innovative cabin designs in both economy and first class.

Air France operates a modern fleet, including Airbus A350s and Boeing 777s, serving over 200 destinations. The airline is known for premium service, especially its La Première first class, offering private suites and Michelin-starred dining. Air France focuses on sustainability, investing in eco-friendly initiatives and biofuels.

With Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport

as its main hub, it connects Europe to global markets. Despite past labor disputes, Air France remains a top European airline, offering a blend of luxury, efficiency, and high-quality inflight experiences.

Related

London To Paris: Better On A Plane Or Train?

The London to Paris route is one of the most popular “tourist” routes, connecting the two capitals of Britain and France. London is an economic city, and Paris is one of the most desirable places to visit. It is remarkable how many tourists or passengers use this route (I even used it myself).

There are three ways to get from London to Paris or from Paris to London: by plane, train, and ferry. But the most popular options are flying on a plane or traveling by train ( because compared to the two options, no one travels by car to Paris for 7 hours. Flying from London to Paris is a lot quicker by train. It takes around 43 minutes on an Air France A220. It gets there quickly, and that is it. However, there is a different option for taking the train—specifically the Eurostar train service. Even though the journey is 3 hours, it is much more comfortable for passengers to take the train, as there is no stress compared to the airport, and you do immigration at the departure area, not the arri

Traveler sentiments aside, Air France’s busiest UK route in March, with over 360 scheduled flights and 51,142 seats, is between Paris and London for the month. This allows those on leisure, business, or both the opportunity to quickly, conveniently, and economically travel between two of the world’s most famous cities.

7

Qatar Airways

“Going places together” for over 30 years

Qatar Airways

is a remarkably popular and recognizable airline in the UK. It ranks 7th in terms of fame, with 92% name recognition and a 44% popularity rating. The airline’s busiest UK route is from London to Doha, with 221 flights each way from the capital in March 2025.

A7-BBB_Boeing_777_Qatar_Airways_(8185268254)

Qatar Airways, founded in 1993, is one of the world’s top airlines, known for its luxurious service and extensive global network. Based in Doha, it operates from Hamad International Airport, offering premium travel experiences like QSuite, its award-winning business class. The airline has a modern fleet, including Airbus A350s and Boeing 787s, emphasizing comfort and efficiency. As a oneworld member, it provides extensive connectivity.

Despite regional challenges, such as the Gulf blockade (2017–2021), Qatar Airways continues to expand and lead in aviation innovation, sustainability, and passenger experience with an overall 44% popularity rating.

Popular destinations for Qatar Airways

London

Miami

Washington, DC

Atlanta

New York City

Beijing

Tokyo

Paris

Frankfurt

Cape Town

Sydney

Auckland

6

Emirates

“Fly better” with exclusive luxuries

Founded in 1985, Emirates

is one of the world’s most prestigious airlines, based in Dubai. Operating the largest fleet of Airbus A350s and A380s and Boeing 777s, it offers luxury across all cabin classes, especially in first class, with private suites and onboard showers.

Its hub at Dubai International Airport connects travelers worldwide. The airline’s busiest UK route in March, with 186 flights and

over 184,000 seats each way in total, is between London Heathrow and Dubai.

  • Founded in 1985 – Emirates was established by the Dubai government with just two leased aircraft!
  • Largest A380 operator – Emirates operates the world’s largest fleet of Airbus A380s.
  • Award-winning service – Emirates is known for its premium service, offering gourmet meals, spacious cabins, and one of the best in-flight entertainment systems

Emirates has scheduled nearly 1,200 flights in and out of the UK in March, totaling over half a million seats! Emirates is known for its premium inflight entertainment and service. Despite economic and regional challenges, the airline continues expanding, investing in sustainability, and maintaining its reputation for excellence in long-haul air travel.

Emirates Boeing 777-300ER new livery by Emirates

Photo: Emirates

Emirates is well-placed on our list because of the high-end travel options, value, and global impression of traveling on this airline, falling in the top 5 for popularity with a 48% positive opinion rating.

Related

Emirates’ Premium Economy Has Won Several Awards Over The Years. Have You Experienced Flying In This Cabin? 

Emirates’ premium economy cabin has garnered multiple accolades, including ‘Best Premium Economy Product in the World’ at the Airline Ratings Excellence Awards. The airline was also recognized as the ‘Best Premium Economy Class Airline in the Middle East’ and received the award for ‘Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in the Middle East’ at the Skytrax World Airline Awards.

Passengers praise the cabin’s spacious 19.5-inch-wide leather seats with up to 40 inches of pitch, 8 inches of recline, adjustable headrests, and elevated dining experiences featuring meals served on Royal Doulton china. Emirates has been expanding its premium economy offering, with plans to introduce the cabin on flights between Dubai and Brisbane starting February 1, 2025. 

Have you had the opportunity to fly in Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin? Share your experiences and thoughts below.

5

TUI Airways

A top holiday airline

Gaining popularity over the past 12 months with a 51% positive opinion rating, TUI Airways, the UK’s largest charter airline, specializes in holiday travel. Formerly Thomson Airways, it was rebranded in 2017 and is now part of the TUI Group. It serves popular beach destinations in Europe, the Caribbean, and the US, operating a fleet of Boeing 737s and 787 Dreamliners.

  • Largest leisure airline – TUI Airways is part of the TUI Group, the world’s largest tourism company.
  • European focus – The airline serves major European countries, flying from the UK, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands to name just a few.
  • Eco-friendly initiatives – TUI is committed to sustainability, investing in fuel-efficient aircraft and aiming to reduce carbon emissions.

Unlike traditional low-cost airlines, TUI integrates flights with package holidays, offering all-in-one travel solutions. TUI has a planned capacity of over 650,000 seats and nearly 3,200 scheduled flights for destination-seekers in March.

TUI Aircraft Landing in Madeira

Photo: LIAL | Shutterstock

TUI offers almost 30 non-stop flights from the UK to Barbados for the month of March 2025, making it a perfect fit for the leisure market! The airline focuses on customer convenience and sustainability. With a strong presence in the leisure market, TUI Airways continues to expand, ensuring seamless vacation experiences for UK travelers.

4

Virgin Atlantic

See the world differently

Founded in 1984 by Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Atlantic

is a British long-haul airline known for its stylish branding and premium service. Operating from London Heathrow, it primarily serves transatlantic routes with a slightly lower popularity rating of 46% among other carriers in our top 10. The airline’s Upper Class offers lie-flat beds and an onboard bar, while the premium economy is among the best in the industry.

Virgin-Atlantic-A350-in-flight

Photo: Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic operates a modern fleet, including Airbus A350s and Boeing 787s. Despite financial struggles during COVID-19, it has rebounded, expanding routes and strengthening partnerships with Delta Air Lines. It remains a favorite for travelers seeking a premium alternative to traditional carriers.

Virgin Atlantic contributes much of the UK’s busy airspace and air carrier operations. In particular, the airline has scheduled over 46,000 seats to New York City’s JFK airport alone, which has over 150 UK flights each way for March this year. Needless to say, Virgin Atlantic’s popularity is matching its fame among travelers in the UK.

3

easyJet

Making low-cost travel easy

Coming in the top 3, easyJet

, founded in 1995, is one of Europe’s largest low-cost airlines. Based in the UK, it operates over 1,000 routes, serving major cities and holiday destinations – just one of the routes to Geneva, Switzerland (GVA) is scheduled over 450 times for March alone!

easyJet aircraft at Milan Malpensa Airport MXP shutterstock_1737403730

 Photo: Simone Previdi | Shutterstock

easyJet destinations (too many to list!)

Austria

Bulgaria

Cape Verde

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Denmark

Egypt

France (12 locations)

Germany

Greece (25 locations)

Hungary

Iceland

Italy (21 locations)

Netherlands

Poland

Portugal

Spain (26 locations)

Switzerland

Turkey

United Kingdom

easyJet flies to certain primary airports, making it a convenient choice for budget travelers, which is why the airline’s popularity over the last 12 months has made it one of the go-to choices for travel. The airline uses a no-frills model but is known for its reliability and transparent pricing.

Its fleet of Airbus A320 family jets is fuel-efficient, aligning with easyJet’s sustainability goals. This short-haul airline has over 25,600 flights scheduled for the UK next month alone and shows that its 55% popularity rating is a driving factor for this success.

easyjet routes

Image: easyJet

2

British Airways

Connecting Britain with the world, the world with Britain

British Airways

, the UK’s flag carrier and most popular airline with a 67% approval rating, was established in 1974 and a oneworld alliance member. Operating primarily from London Heathrow, it serves over 200 destinations worldwide. The airline’s business class, Club World, offers lie-flat seats, while first class features private suites.

British_Airways-A350-ref133729

Photo: British Airways

The airline’s Executive Club rewards loyal travelers with Avios

points. BA has faced challenges, including labor disputes and IT failures, but remains a leader in global aviation. It continues to expand routes, modernize its fleet, and focus on premium travel experiences, and you can enjoy British Airways on any of its 25,600 scheduled flights.

To learn more about Avios, click here!

British Airways’ top three busiest routes between London and Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York JFK account for 1,800 plus flights and almost 370,000 available seats for March 2025 alone.

1

Ryanair

Europe’s largest network

Founded in 1984 in Ireland, Ryanair

is Europe’s largest low-cost airline and one of the UK’s busiest air carriers. It operates over 1,800 routes, focusing on ultra-low fares and secondary airports to cut costs. Its no-frills model charges for extras like baggage and seat selection, keeping base fares low. Although Ryanair falls outside the top 10 for popularity with a 37% positive opinion rating in the UK, it is the most recognizable airline brand with a 99% fame rating on YouGov.

The airline primarily flies Boeing 737s, maintaining a high-efficiency, low-cost structure. We see this popularity and fame within the UK, with the staggering 500+ arrivals and departures between Dublin and London and more than 23,300 total routes planned for March. Despite criticism for strict policies and customer service, Ryanair remains highly profitable and continues expanding across Europe and beyond. It is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers.

All ten airlines contribute to the massive air travel volume to and from the UK. Whether you choose an ultra-low-cost carrier or take a transcontinental flight in a private suite, you will likely be aboard one of these popular airlines if you travel from the United Kingdom.

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