After months of waiting, the time has finally come: borders that were previously completely closed are gradually opening up again. For example, entry into the UK is now possible again, Thailand is feeling its way to an opening with "sandbox" projects and also the USA will follow soonthanks to high vaccination rates in popular destinations, falling infection figures and well thought-out safety measures. "The experience after 18 months in Corona mode shows - holidays work!" confirmed Helga Freund, Managing Director Ruefa and Board Member VERKEHRSBUERO at a press conference.

With greater freedom of movement, airlines are now regaining importance. Reason enough to take a look at their security measures, the comfort offered and their services. The readers of Condé Nast Traveller have chosen these airlines as the best in the world:

Rank 10: British Airways

You don't have to be British to love the British. Because their national airline serves a route network to over 160 destinations on six continents via London Heathrow. This makes the airline an important hub for European travelers as well. Travellers are particularly enthusiastic about the airport lounges, the loyalty programme and the Premium Economy cabins. The First Class can also do something: here, fully reclining seats allow the highest level of sleeping comfort.

Rank 9: Swiss

9th place in the world's best airlines goes to Swiss. Readers were particularly impressed by the cabin crew, their high level of service and attention to detail. Just recently, they treated business class to an upgrade with seats that convert to flat beds. The airline is part of the Lufthansa family and serves over 100 destinations in 50 countries.

Rank 8: Virgin Atlantic

Sir Richard Branson, a billionaire entrepreneur, is known for his unusual ideas. From the private island to the space flight - planned down to the last detail and with a feel for the zeitgeist, he knows what travelers want. His airline surprises with in-flight manicures and cocktail lounges, for example. In Premium Economy Class, you feel a little bit first - because here, too, hot towels and welcome drinks are served. Thanks to a cooperation with Delta, Virgin Atlantic is expanding its route network this year.

Rank 7: Eva Air

Aircraft in Hello Kitty design, exceptionally friendly service staff and comparatively low fares make the Taiwanese airline one of the best airlines in the world - at least according to Readers Choice Awards. Other pluses for Eva Air, which has been battered by the events of recent months, include comfortable premium economy cabins. And the food? Outstanding and created by Michelin-starred chefs.

Rank 6: Etihad Airways

From its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, the airline - known for its 3-room "Flying Apartment" - serves numerous destinations in the USA, Europe and Asia. Not quite as luxurious, but still equipped with everything the discerning traveller could wish for, is Eithad's much-vaunted Business Class. In Economy Class, "flying nannies" look after little travellers with games and magic tricks. 

Rank 5: Qantas 

More elegantly than any kangaroo, the Australian airline hops from long-haul destination to long-haul destination. It is known for its ultra-long-haul flights, for example from Sydney to Dallas. Naturally, passengers travel in style in an Airbus A380. Travellers have been looking forward to the airline's return for a long time - after all, it is also popular for its fine wines, high-quality menus and premium economy on the upper deck.

Rank 4: Qatar Airways

Compared to all other airlines, Qatar Airways has the youngest aircraft. The airline serves many destinations via its hub in Doha with the Boeng 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350-1000, both of which make flying particularly pleasant. This is because their design allows for less internal air pressure in the cabin and higher humidity. This reduces the effects of jet lag and makes for a more pleasant flying experience overall. Few have flown them, but everyone loves them: the QSuites in Business Class. In them, passengers can sleep in double beds. 

Rank 3: Turkish Airlines

The goals are lofty, but do not seem very far away: Turkish Airlines would like to become the airline for transatlantic travel. Among the best airlines in the world, it makes its stopover program in Istanbul. Other benefits that passengers consistently praise are the attentive service and excellent food.

Rank 2: Emirates

The Dubai-based airline offers travelers luxurious amenities in First and Business Class. The lounge and spa showers in the Airbus A380, for example, are sensational. But Emirates passengers are also in good hands in Economy Class. The ICE entertainment system offers 1,800 channels. There is WLAN. The service is impeccable. The Premium Economy cabin is also brand new. This is another reason for naming the airline one of the best in the world.

Rank 1: Singapore Airlines

For more than 30 years, the airline with its hub in Changi has repeatedly made it into the top lists of all airport rankings. No wonder, after all, it holds a number of records. For example, it operates the world's longest non-stop flight between New York and Singapore. The 19-hour odyssey is easy to endure in the modern premium A-350 aircraft. Added to this is outstanding seating comfort. And the farm-to-plane catering concept also makes passengers' hearts beat faster.