There are more than 5,000 airlines in the world. But there are only some of them that stand out from the rest because of fleet size, revenue, or customer satisfaction. These airlines generate billions of revenue, fly out to numerous locations, and provide the best facilities to their customers. If you want to know which airlines generate the most revenue in the world, then this article is for you.

List of 11 Largest Airlines in the World

Here is the list of the 11 largest airlines in the world in terms of revenue.

1. Delta Air Lines
2. American Airlines Group
3. United Airlines Holdings
4. Lufthansa Group
5. Emirates
6. Air France-KLM Group
7. Southwest Airlines
8. International Airlines Group
9. Turkish Airlines
10. China Southern Airlines
11. Air Canada

1) Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines is the largest airline in the world in terms of revenue as it generated a revenue of $53.99 billion with assets of $73.13 billion as of January 2023. Established in 1924, the US airline has a fleet of more than 900 aircraft and flies to various locations across the globe. With important hubs placed thoughtfully in Detroit, Minneapolis, and Atlanta, Delta has grown to be a significant force in the aviation sector.

The first in-flight entertainment system was introduced by Delta, one of its historic milestones that highlights the airline’s commitment to innovation. The airline has consistently updated its fleet over time, adding fuel-efficient planes and adopting cutting-edge technologies to improve the traveler experience.

Financially strong, Delta is constantly ranked in the top tier of airlines in the world by revenue. Its reputation was further cemented and its route network was extended with the 2008 acquisition of Northwest Airlines. During difficult circumstances, Delta’s agility and tenacity were on display, highlighting its operational efficiency and strategic decision-making.

2) American Airlines Group

American Airlines Group stands second in the category of the biggest airlines in terms of revenue as a powerhouse in the aviation industry. It generated a revenue of $52.2 billion with assets of $66.78 billion as of January 2023. 

The airline giant was created in 2013 by the merger of American Airlines and US Airways which has grown into a significant force with a sizable fleet and extensive network.

With a combined fleet of more than 950 aircraft, American Airlines Group connects travelers to more than 350 locations worldwide through a vast route network. The merger was a calculated decision to improve productivity, simplify processes, and strengthen its position in the cutthroat aviation industry.

The American Airlines Group has a rich past, dating back to 1930 when American Airlines first opened for business. The airline has led the way in several areas related to air travel throughout the years, from launching the first domestic jet service to being instrumental in shaping the current aviation environment.

American Airlines Group is a financially resilient airline that routinely ranks in the top ten worldwide revenue-generating airlines. Its ongoing success can be attributed to the synergies from the merger and the strategic collaborations. The group’s modern services and updated fleet demonstrate its dedication to both technological innovation and client service.

Also Read: Busiest Airports in United States

3) United Airlines Holdings

United Airlines Holdings is a significant participant in the aviation sector that generated a revenue of $48.82 billion with assets of $70.42 billion as of January 2023. Established in 2010 as a result of the merger of United Airlines and Continental Airlines, the business has grown to be a major force on the international stage.

United Airlines Holdings operates a vast network that connects travelers to over 350 destinations globally with a combined fleet of over 900 aircraft. The merger represented a calculated strategic move to increase operational effectiveness, expand the route network, and bolster its position as a major player in the cutthroat aviation industry.

The airline has led the way in technological innovation throughout the years, bringing in many advancements for air travel, such as the first flight kitchen and the creation of hub-and-spoke networks.

United Airlines Holdings is routinely ranked in the top 10 revenue-generating airlines worldwide. Strategic alliances, merger synergies, and a dedication to sustainability have all played a part in its ongoing success. The company’s modern services and updated fleet demonstrate its commitment to customer satisfaction.

Also read: Top Airlines In The United States

4) Lufthansa Group

Lufthansa Group is regarded as one of the biggest airlines in terms of revenue in the aviation sector. The airline generated a revenue of $35.8 billion with assets of $48.79 billion as of January 2023. Several well-known airlines are part of the conglomerate, which was established in 1953 and includes Brussels Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, and Lufthansa.

The Lufthansa Group has wide connectivity, covering more than 310 destinations worldwide with a combined fleet of approximately 270 aircraft. The group is positioned as a major player in the global aviation sector because of the cooperative power of its member airlines.

As the flagship carrier, Lufthansa has led the way in the industry. By developing strategic alliances and broadening its network, the airline was instrumental in the formation of the Star Alliance, the largest global airline alliance in the world. The ongoing fleet modernization initiatives of the Lufthansa Group demonstrate its dedication to technical innovation and enhance operational sustainability and efficiency.

The Lufthansa Group is a continually high-earning aviation corporation in the world. The group’s ongoing success has been attributed to its commitment to offering first-class services as well as its strategic collaborations and acquisitions. The Lufthansa Group plays a major role in determining the direction of aviation, and its impact goes beyond its roots in Europe.

5) Emirates

Emirates, one of the biggest airlines in the world by sales, announced a healthy $33 billion in revenue in 2023. Emirates, a Dubai-based company that was founded in 1985, has developed into a major force in the world, known for its superb service and vast network. The airline became a major force in international aviation by operating flights to more than 150 destinations on six continents by 2023.

Emirates’ substantial income is a reflection of its strategic emphasis on long-haul travel as well as its fleet acquisition of modern aircraft. The airline has one of the biggest fleets of comfortable and effective Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft. Due to its dedication to upholding a cutting-edge fleet, Emirates can provide a first-rate travel experience that draws in both business and leisure tourists.

The airline’s creative marketing plans and alliances also contribute to its success. Emirates’ global brand recognition is increased via its sponsorship of important sports teams and events, like Real Madrid and the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens. The airline’s strong revenue streams are also a result of its membership in the Emirates Group, which is made up of dnata, a major international provider of aviation services.

Emirates is a top airline that competes with other big players like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Qatar Airways, as seen by its $33 billion in sales in 2023. This financial success demonstrates Emirates’ aptitude for overcoming obstacles and seizing chances in the fast-paced aviation sector.
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6) Air France-KLM Group

Air France-KLM Group is notable for being among the biggest airline conglomerates in terms of revenue. Since its formation in 2004 as the result of the merger of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Air France, the group has grown to become a major player in the global aviation industry. The airline generated a revenue of $29.41 billion with assets of $34.81 billion as of January 2023. 

The Air France-KLM Group has a huge network that connects passengers to over 300 locations globally, with a combined fleet of over 500 aircraft. The objectives of the merger were to increase operational effectiveness, capitalize on synergies, and fortify the group’s competitive standing.

The airlines that make up the group, KLM and Air France, have a long history that dates back to the early 1900s. Both airlines have played a leading role in the aviation sector over the years, helping to shape the evolution of contemporary air travel.

The Air France-KLM Group is one of the world’s leading airline corporations in terms of revenue generation. The firm has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by investing in eco-friendly technologies and lowering carbon emissions through various projects.

7) Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is a trailblazer in the aviation industry that stands as one of the biggest airlines in terms of income. Since its founding in 1967, the American low-cost airline has transformed air travel with its distinctive business strategy, which prioritizes affordability, effectiveness, and a dedication to client happiness. The airline generated a revenue of $24.83 billion with assets of $35.55 billion as of January 2023. 

Southwest Airlines has grown to be the biggest domestic airline in the US, flying a fleet of more than 800 Boeings. The airline’s reputation for punctuality and affordability can be attributed to its point-to-point route structure and use of secondary airports.

One of the most innovative things that Southwest has ever done is launch the first profit-sharing program for staff members in the airline business. The airline has served over 100 locations in the US and its adjacent countries as a result of network expansion throughout time.

Southwest is consistently rated as one of the world’s top revenue-generating airlines. The airline’s continued success can be attributed to its commitment to a no-frills strategy and its emphasis on operational effectiveness. Beyond only being a low-cost carrier, Southwest has a significant impact on the industry due to its unwavering dedication to price, dependability, and providing excellent customer service.

Also read: Largest Airports in the World

8) International Airlines Group

International Airlines Group is one of the biggest airline conglomerates in terms of revenue and a powerful force in the world of aviation. It generated a revenue of $24.3 billion with assets of $42 billion as of January 2023. Several significant airlines, including British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling, and LEVEL, are a part of IAG, which was founded in 2011.

IAG has a comprehensive network that connects passengers to over 200 locations globally with a combined fleet of over 500 aircraft. IAG is positioned as a major participant in the competitive worldwide aviation market thanks to the strategic cooperation of its member airlines.

IAG is ranked among the world’s top airline corporations in terms of revenue generation. The group’s continued success can be attributed to its dedication to operational excellence, strategic alliances, and fleet modernization for maximum efficiency. IAG is an important factor in determining the direction of international air transport because of its influence that goes beyond its roots in Europe.

9) Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines is unquestionably one of the biggest airlines in the world. Since its founding in 1933, Turkey’s flag carrier has grown significantly, becoming a major participant in the world with a modern fleet and extensive network. The airline generated a revenue of $19.7 billion and assets worth $32 billion as of January 2023. 

Turkish Airlines offers service to more than 300 locations worldwide with a more than 450 aircraft fleet, including the newest Airbus and Boeing types. The airline’s dominance in international air travel is attributed to its strategic hub located in Istanbul, which is a crucial crossroads linking Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Turkish Airlines possesses a rich history that is highlighted by significant events like its 2008 membership in the Star Alliance, which improved its worldwide reach. The airline has continuously made investments in state-of-the-art equipment to provide customers with a smooth and pleasurable flying experience. The multiple accolades it has won for excellence in passenger satisfaction demonstrate its dedication to providing high-quality services.

Turkish Airlines is one of the world’s top revenue-generating airlines regularly. The airline’s ongoing success can be attributed to its strategic expansion plans, sustainability, and innovation commitments. Turkish Airlines proudly holds its place among the top 10 largest airlines as of the most recent data available, demonstrating its lasting history and noteworthy influence on the international aviation scene.

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10) China Southern Airlines

China Southern Airlines is one of the biggest airlines in terms of revenue as it generated $12.9 billion with assets of $44.9 billion as of January 2023. Since its founding in 1988, the airline has grown rapidly and played a major role in the dynamic Chinese aviation industry which has boosted the nation’s economy.

China Southern Airlines operates a wide network, connecting passengers to nearly 200 locations worldwide, with a fleet of more than 600 contemporary aircraft. The airline is positioned as a vital link between China and the rest of the globe thanks to its strategic hubs in Beijing and Guangzhou.

Leading the way in the swift growth of the Chinese aviation sector has been China Southern Airlines. The airline has been a key player in promoting global connectivity by consistently investing in its fleet, which includes the newest models of Airbus and Boeing. Its employment of cutting-edge technologies to improve operational effectiveness and passenger experience is indicative of its commitment to innovation.

China Southern Airlines is one of the world’s top revenue-generating airlines regularly. The airline’s global reach has been further increased through codeshare agreements and strategic alliances. China Southern Airlines is honored to be among the largest airlines as of the most recent data available, demonstrating its long-lasting history and significant influence on the aviation industry’s competitive landscape.

Also read: Best Airlines in the UK

11) Air Canada

Air Canada comes 11th in the list of the largest airlines in the world. Since its founding in 1937, Canada’s flag carrier has grown to become a major force with a modern fleet and a strong network. The airline generated a revenue of $12.7 billion with assets of $21.8 billion as of January 2023. 

Air Canada covers more than 220 locations worldwide with a fleet of more than 180 aircraft, including models from Boeing and Airbus. The airline’s major hubs in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver add to its wide connectivity, which makes it an essential connection for travelers both domestically and abroad.

Throughout its long history, Air Canada has accomplished several significant things, including transitioning into a private company in 1988. The airline has demonstrated a constant ability to adjust to changes in the market by adopting new technologies and making fleet investments to improve passenger services and operational efficiency.

No.	Airline	Revenue Generated (January 2023)
1	Delta Air Lines	$53.99 billion
2	American Airlines Group	$52.2 billion
3	United Airlines Holdings	$48.82 billion
4	Lufthansa Group	$35.8 billion
5	Emirates	$ 33.0 billion
6	Air France-KLM Group	$29.41 billion
7	Southwest Airlines	$24.83 billion
8	International Airlines Group	$24.3 billion
9	Turkish Airlines	$19.7 billion
10	China Southern Airlines	$12.9 billion
11	Air Canada	$12.7 billion

Conclusion

When it comes to determining the largest airlines in the world, different metrics are used. This article has listed the airline giants in terms of revenue generated. These airlines are massive in terms of fleet size, passengers carried, or revenue. 

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