✈️ Best Airlines for Long‑Haul Flights to the USA (Guide)
Planning a transatlantic or intercontinental journey to the United States? Choosing the right airline makes a world of difference in comfort, service, and value — especially on long‑haul flights. Below we explore the top airlines flying to major US hubs (e.g., JFK, LAX, ORD, ATL, SFO) with insights into experience, routes, and booking tips.
🌍 1. Singapore Airlines — Best Overall Long‑Haul
Singapore Airlines consistently ranks at the top for long‑haul comfort, entertainment, and service — especially on flights from Asia to the US (e.g., SIN → SFO or SIN → JFK via stop). Their updated cabin products make even the longest journeys feel more enjoyable.
- 🛫 Great connectivity from Singapore (SIN) to SFO, JFK, LAX
- 🍽️ Excellent in‑flight dining & entertainment
- 💺 Award‑winning business & premium economy
Booking Tip: Use KrisFlyer miles or book during Singapore Airlines sales for lower fares across the Pacific.
⭐ 2. Qatar Airways — Best Premium Experience
Known for its luxury, Qatar Airways is ideal for travelers who want an elevated long‑haul experience. Their flagship service from Doha (DOH) to US cities like NYC offers world‑class business class and onboard comfort.
- 🌐 Fly DOH → JFK, DFW, LAX
- 🍷 Premium dining & Qsuite business class
- 🛬 Smooth connections to Europe and Asia
Pro Tip: Qatar often has promo fares via online travel agencies — compare before booking!
✈️ 3. Lufthansa — Europe to the USA
Lufthansa is an excellent choice for flights from Europe (e.g., FRA, MUC, ZRH) to the US. Their expansive network connects to hubs like ORD, ATL, and SEA.
- 🇩🇪 Reliable service from Frankfurt and Munich
- 🍺 Good economy & premium economy value
- 🧳 Generous baggage policies for long‑haul
Flight Hack: Book early for best prices — Lufthansa often increases fares closer to departure.
🛫 4. Emirates — Comfort + Wide Reach
Emirates connects Dubai (DXB) to major US gateways like JFK, LAX, and MIA. Their long‑haul fleet focuses on space, service, and entertainment — great for Asia‑US routings.
- 🍿 ICE entertainment system (one of the best)
- 🛬 Dubai stopover options
- 🪑 Excellent business class seats
Booking Tip: If you have time, add a Dubai stopover for free or low‑cost before heading to the US.
🇺🇸 5. Delta Air Lines — Best US Carrier for Long‑Haul
Delta excels on transatlantic routes from Europe and beyond, serving hubs like ATL, JFK, MSP, and SEA.
- 🧭 Strong Europe‑US coverage
- 💺 Delta One for premium travelers
- ✈️ Great reliability & frequent flyer perks
Pro Tip: Use SkyMiles to upgrade from economy to Delta One on long flights — great value!
💸 6. Iberia — Budget‑Friendly Atlantic Option
Iberia connects Madrid (MAD) with JFK, BOS, and other US cities at competitive prices. Their modern long‑haul fleet and lower fare base make them a great choice for value travelers.
- 💶 Often cheaper than other carriers on MAD → US
- 🍷 Spanish‑style service & complimentary meals
- 🌍 Good for Spain & Europe connections
Booking Strategy: Search flight aggregators like KAYAK or Google Flights to compare ICAO partner deals before purchasing.
📌 Ultimate Tips for Booking Long‑Haul to the USA
- 🔎 Book ~120 days early — worldwide carriers often raise prices last minute.
- 🗓️ Cheapest months for transatlantic travel: typically January–March and September–November.
- 💺 Consider premium economy for a big comfort upgrade at a moderate price.
- 🧳 Check baggage fees — long‑haul airlines often include one or two checked bags in the fare.
- 💡 Use airline miles or credit card points to reduce total cost or upgrade to business class.
Choosing the right airline depends on your priorities — whether it’s comfort, price, or service. The airlines above represent the best mix of reliability, network reach, and value for long‑haul flights to the United States.