These Are the Largest Airlines in Asia

Asia is home to some of the world’s most expansive and fast-growing airlines, serving vast domestic markets and global routes with modern, high-capacity fleets. For aviation enthusiasts, these carriers are rich with spotting opportunities—from the latest wide-bodies to huge short-haul operations. Here are the ten largest airlines in Asia, based on fleet size and passenger traffic.

1. China Southern Airlines

Base: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), China

China Southern is currently Asia’s largest airline by fleet size, operating over 650 aircraft. Its vast domestic network is supported by a growing list of international destinations across Asia, Europe, and North America. The airline flies a mix of Boeing 737NG/MAX and Airbus A320 family aircraft, along with long-haul wide-bodies like the A350-900, Boeing 777-300ER, and 787-9 Dreamliner.

2. China Eastern Airlines

Base: Shanghai Pudong and Hongqiao Airports, China

China Eastern is a close second to its southern rival, operating a similar-sized fleet. A SkyTeam member, it connects cities across China with major international hubs. Spotters will find A320s, A321neos, and Boeing 737s for short-haul, with wide-bodies including A330s and the new A350-900 for long-haul. It recently introduced the COMAC C919 into service—an aviation milestone.

3. IndiGo

Base: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, India

India’s largest airline, IndiGo has risen rapidly with its low-cost, no-frills model. It operates one of the world’s largest Airbus A320neo and A321neo fleets, with nearly 350 aircraft and hundreds more on order. While predominantly domestic, IndiGo has expanded internationally to the Middle East and Southeast Asia, and now codeshares with several global carriers.

4. Air India

Pramodkraj12, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Base: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, India

Now part of the Tata Group, Air India is undergoing a major transformation. With its acquisition of Vistara and AirAsia India, it aims to become a world-class full-service airline. Its current fleet includes Boeing 777s, 787-8/9s, and Airbus A320 family aircraft. A massive order for new A350s, 737 MAXs, and 787s is set to overhaul its entire fleet.

5. ANA – All Nippon Airways

Base: Tokyo Haneda and Narita Airports, Japan

Japan’s largest airline, ANA is known for its service and modern fleet. It operates domestic flights with A321s and 737-800s, and long-haul routes with Boeing 777s, 787-9/10s, and the A380—used exclusively on the Tokyo–Honolulu route, with a special “Flying Honu” livery. ANA is a Star Alliance member with a strong global network.

6. Japan Airlines (JAL)

By lasta29 [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Japan’s flag carrier and oneworld member, JAL offers a large domestic and international operation. Its fleet includes 737-800s and A350-900s for short-haul and long-haul routes, with Boeing 767s and 777-300ERs still in service. It’s also one of the few airlines flying the new A350-1000, featuring in its premium long-haul revamp.

7. Korean Air

Base: Seoul Incheon International Airport, South Korea

A key player in Asia’s aviation landscape, Korean Air is well-known for its global reach and distinctive blue livery. It flies Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, and Airbus A330s. It also operates A380s on high-density routes. With the upcoming merger with Asiana Airlines, Korean Air is set to become even more dominant across Asia.

8. Cathay Pacific

Base: Hong Kong International Airport

Hong Kong’s flag carrier has weathered recent turbulence and is rebuilding its network. Cathay’s fleet includes the Airbus A350-900/1000 and Boeing 777-300ER for long-haul, alongside A321neos for regional flights. As a oneworld member, Cathay remains one of the top long-haul carriers in Asia with a focus on premium service.

9. Singapore Airlines

Base: Singapore Changi Airport

Often topping rankings for service and innovation, Singapore Airlines maintains a modern, efficient fleet. It operates A350-900s, Boeing 787-10s, and 777-300ERs, and was the launch customer for the ultra-long-range A350-900ULR. Its iconic A380s remain in service on select routes, including the world’s longest flight to New York JFK.

10. Thai Airways International

Base: Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand’s flag carrier has restructured significantly in recent years but still operates a sizeable and diverse fleet. Thai Airways uses A350s and Boeing 787s for long-haul operations, and 777s and A320s for regional routes. It remains a popular choice for tourists and spotters in Southeast Asia, with Bangkok being a key hub.

Let us know—have you spotted any of these giants in action recently? Have you flown any of these airlines? Share your thoughts on them below!

Title image: Erik Ritterbach