Should You Choose Airlines Based On Their Star Rating? Here's What You Need To Know

Do a quick search online of the best airlines, and you'll likely find websites offering star ratings to compare carriers. The rating systems, typically ranging from one-star to five-star marks, work like hotel star ratings to help you judge which airlines offer the most luxurious experience. But just how useful are airline star ratings when booking a trip?

Explore reached out to Darren Burn, CEO of LGBTQ+ travel brands Out of Office and Travel Gay, for an expert's input. As Burn shares with us exclusively, airline star ratings aren't useful for the average traveler. "Most of the time a consumer has very little choice over which airline they fly," the travel insider reveals. "But for more discerning travelers — and especially long haul — it's always useful to make sure the airline meets your expectations."

Specifically, Burn says that star ratings can be helpful for those booking upgraded seats. "When it comes to premium cabins in the air, that's when the real differences start to show." If, for instance, you're looking for the best first-class experience in the world, airline ratings can help you make an educated choice. That said, Burn warns that third-party ratings might not align with your personal preferences, and just because a carrier receives an impressive five stars doesn't mean your flight experience will be flawless.

Besides star ratings, Darren Burn suggests turning to social media to determine the quality of an airline before booking a trip. "There are so many airline influencers now that create excellent content on social media," the CEO explains. "If you are flying a specific route, there's likely an influencer who has made a video that showcases the airline's seat configuration, the amenities, the food, and the airport." These videos can help you judge if a carrier's in-flight experience might meet your needs.

Burn also suggests researching which airlines on your route tend to be the most punctual, as this can greatly influence the rest of your trip. "There's nothing worse than arriving [at the airport] for a long-haul flight 2-3 hours early and then having to wait, especially if [it's] a leisure trip. Late flights also have a knock-on for everyone, from the driver waiting for you to the passengers boarding the return leg."

For travelers in business and first class, a few other factors can make or break the experience. Burn notes that comfortable lie-flat seats, privacy barriers, and high-quality meals are some of the things elite passengers may want to look for when choosing between carriers. Identifying the airlines with the best customer service can also help you narrow down your options. As Burn says, "In the premium cabins, not all airlines are born equal, so if you do have a choice then be sure to research thoroughly or ask a luxury travel expert for advice."