Low cost airlines around the world
What is actually classified as a low cost airline, and which are the largest low cost carriers in the world? Here you can learn more about the airlines that have taken flying on a budget to a new level.
What is a low cost airline?
For an airline to be classified as a low cost carrier, their main focus needs to be keeping the operating costs at the lowest level possible. Consequently, this means that your plane ticket will cost less than if you would choose to fly with another carrier. A low cost carrier, according to the global association IATA, usually works short-haul flights and point-to-point operations. They offer no loyalty programmes and aren’t a part of any of the major airline alliances.
So, how are budget airlines able to offer such low prices? The reality is that there are a number of reasons. First of all, the low price on your ticket comes from the fact that traditional amenities and services aren’t always included if you choose a low cost operator. You might have to pay extra for things such as catering on the plane and carry-on luggage. To keep the prices down, low cost carriers also normally fly to secondary airports in cities where there are more than one airport to choose from.
Budget airlines – largest operators worldwide
When it comes to the largest low cost carriers in the world, you find one American operator and one European operator in the top. American low cost carrier Southwest is actually one of the largest airlines in the world, and offers low cost flights to most parts of the US. In Europe you find Irish operator Ryanair, a well known budget airline that flies to almost every major city in the continent.
See all low cost carriers
In the following compilation you find low cost airlines worldwide, listed in an alphabetical order. You can find information about which country the airline originates from and how many airports they currently operate at – and by following each link you also find flights offered by the airline. The list is continuously updated to make sure you always have the latest information.
This list was generated on May 2026.
