If you’re the type of traveler who carries hand sanitizer, frets about the passenger with a cold nearby, and wipes down the tray table, armrest and seat before settling in, read on.
In the United States, airlines must establish their own cleaning protocols; other countries follow their own regulations, which can vary. Typically, carriers require flight attendants or certified maintenance crews to perform basic cleaning between flights—removing trash, spot-vacuuming, and refreshing lavatories. A more thorough cleaning often occurs when an aircraft overnighted at an airport, with crews wiping down seat surfaces, tray tables and high-touch areas using disinfectants. Most airlines also schedule deep cleans periodically to launder seat covers and shampoo carpets.
If you want to fly without worrying about mysterious stains or stray chewing gum, the following carriers are widely recognized for maintaining especially clean cabins.
Asiana Airlines
Asiana consistently presents tidy cabin interiors across its network. On its routes you’re unlikely to encounter dusty reading materials or touchscreens smudged with fingerprints. In-flight amenities and meal service are well managed, and crew members maintain a visible cabin presence to keep areas neat and attended to.
All Nippon Airways
ANA is known for high-quality service across both domestic and international routes. Many international Boeing aircraft include thoughtful touches—such as dedicated women’s lavatories on some flights and a cabin design that incorporates mood lighting—alongside attentive service that helps keep cabins and restrooms in good condition.
EVA Air
Taiwan-based EVA Air earns praise for consistent cleanliness and comfort across fare classes. Efficient, professional staff help ensure that spills and smudges are addressed, seats are kept tidy, and tray tables, carpets and lavatories remain well maintained throughout the journey.
Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific exemplifies high standards of cabin care, particularly in premium cabins where passengers can expect meticulous attention to cleanliness. Economy cabins and lavatories also receive regular attention, contributing to an overall pleasant and hygienic onboard environment.
Safe and clean travels!