Top Airlines for Traveling from the USA to Europe: Your Ultimate Guide

Planning a trip from the USA to Europe can be exciting. Choosing the right airline for this journey involves considering several important factors.

Many airlines claim to offer comfort, great connections, and affordable prices. This guide simplifies your search so you can focus on enjoying your European adventure.

What to Look for in the Best Airline to Fly to Europe from the USA

Flying across the Atlantic requires careful consideration. Here are key factors to evaluate:

1. Comfort & Amenities: Assess seat pitch, entertainment options, and meal quality. Look for airlines known for spacious and comfortable seating.
2. Pricing & Fees: Pay attention to ticket prices, baggage fees, and charges for seat selection. These can quickly add up.
3. Flight Options & Connections: Check whether the airline offers direct flights or requires layovers. More flight options are preferable.
4. Loyalty Programs & Upgrades: Frequent flyers should consider the benefits of loyalty programs offered by airlines.
5. Reputation for Reliability: Investigate the airline’s punctuality, customer service, and overall satisfaction ratings to avoid flight disruptions.

The Standouts: Best Airlines to Fly to Europe from the USA

Here are some of the best airlines to consider:

Delta Air Lines

Why It’s Great: Delta is famous for strong customer service and extensive routes to major European cities like Paris and London. They introduce a nonstop service from Minneapolis to Copenhagen starting May 2025.

• Perks: Top-notch in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and included meals on international flights.
• Cabin Options: Offers a range from economy to premium classes.
• SkyMiles Program: Loyalty program benefits include points for upgrades and lounge access.

Air France

Why It’s Great: Air France provides a stylish flying experience, focusing on comfortable service and gourmet meals. They begin nonstop flights from Orlando to Paris on May 21, 2025.

• Perks: Known for high-quality meal service and entertainment.
• Cabin Options: Different classes including Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class.

Lufthansa

Why It’s Great: Lufthansa is recognized for its efficiency and excellent service, providing comfort and reliability.

• Perks: Great dining options and a strong track record for on-time flights.
• Cabin Options: Choices range from Economy to Business Class.
• Bonus: Strong partnerships with other airlines enhance connectivity.

American Airlines

Why It’s Great: American Airlines connects major cities like Madrid and Dublin directly. They expand routes to Italy in May 2025.

• Perks: Includes wine and beer on international flights with quality entertainment.
• Cabin Options: Business and First Class provide luxurious features.

Air Europa

Why It’s Great: This airline offers affordable flights to Spain and other destinations.

• Perks: Solid in-flight service and meals included.
• Cabin Options: Economy and Business Class are available.

Turkish Airlines

Why It’s Great: Known for great prices and exceptional service, Turkish Airlines connects to various European cities.

• Perks: Award-winning meals and spacious seating options.
• Layovers: Istanbul Airport provides amenities for a comfortable wait.

Iberia

Why It’s Great: Iberia specializes in budget routes to Spain with a focus on quality service.

• Perks: Good value meals and straightforward loyalty programs.
• Cabin Options: Premium Economy provides added comfort.

Best Budget Airlines to Fly to Europe from the USA

Traveling to Europe on a budget is possible with these airlines:

Norse Atlantic Airways

Connects the USA to European cities like London and Berlin with low fares.

• What to Expect: Affordable base prices with options for additional services.

French Bee

Offers budget flights to Paris with competitive pricing.

• What to Expect: Low fares with optional services for meals and baggage.

PLAY Airlines

Provides routes via Reykjavik, ideal for adding a stop in Iceland.

• What to Expect: Low prices with extra charges for additional services.

LEVEL

Specializes in budget flights to Spain and France.

• What to Expect: Simple service with customizable add-ons.

Icelandair

Often offers competitive fares and free layovers in Reykjavik.

• What to Expect: Good prices with free stopover options.

Aer Lingus

This Irish airline offers affordable fares with a layover in Dublin.

• What to Expect: Budget-friendly prices with add-on options.

TAP Air Portugal

Connects the USA to Lisbon and more at budget rates.

• What to Expect: Affordable fares with opportunities to upgrade.

Tips for Flying Budget Airlines

1. Pack Light: Use only a carry-on to avoid extra charges.
2. Book Early: Early booking leads to better prices.
3. Check Fees: Be aware of additional costs to avoid surprises.
4. Be Flexible: Flexibility may lead to savings on flight options.
5. Bring Snacks: Save on food costs by bringing your own.

By choosing the right airline, flying from the USA to Europe can be enjoyable and budget-friendly. Evaluate your priorities, whether comfort or cost, and start planning your European getaway.

Bon voyage! ✈️