Travelers hustling through Toronto’s Billy Bishop airport might not notice Porter Airlines’ understated logo, but the world has begun to take note. Against steep odds, this Canadian carrier has quietly claimed the highest honour in global economy class rankings for 2025, leaving industry titans trailing in its slipstream.
On November 5, USA TODAY unveiled its 10BEST Awards list, naming Porter Airlines the best economy class in the world. The recognition came as a shock to many, not least because Porter is the only Canadian name featured among heavyweights like Air France, Turkish Airlines, and American Airlines. Voted on by readers and nominated by an expert panel, the list highlights airlines that make economy travel both affordable and unexpectedly comfortable.
Porter Airlines, often overlooked outside its core markets, operates primarily out of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Its network is modest compared to global behemoths, connecting Canadian cities with select destinations in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Costa Rica. Yet, USA TODAY described it as “a hidden gem in the North American aviation industry,” drawing attention to its ability to punch well above its weight.
The airline’s secret? An unpretentious approach that prioritizes comfort without the fanfare. Passengers enjoy wider seats, generous legroom, complimentary snacks, and a curated selection of drinks featuring local beer and wine. In an age where many economy cabins feel increasingly cramped, these small luxuries set Porter apart. For the weary traveller, it’s a reminder that affordable air travel need not be synonymous with discomfort.
As Porter Airlines rises in the ranks, it forces a reconsideration of what ‘value’ in air travel really means. The global accolade underscores an appetite for change that favours substance over spectacle and reminds industry leaders that even the smallest players can alter the course of competition.
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A small Canadian airline ranks as the world’s best economy class and it beat major carriers
