• EVA Air

EVA Air

Airlines Reviews

EVA Air

EVA Air Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Airline for You?

Taiwan-based EVA Air (pronounced E-V-A) is consistently ranked as a 5-Star airline by Skytrax. Operating out of its primary hub in Taipei, it is widely considered one of the safest and highest-quality carriers in the world, renowned for its impeccable Taiwanese hospitality and incredibly clean cabins.

While they might be famous on social media for their eccentric “Hello Kitty” themed aircraft, EVA Air is a serious, premium contender for transpacific travel. In 2026, they continue to streamline their operations, most notably moving their entire global network to a standardized “Piece Concept” for checked luggage.

EVA Air at a Glance

  • Alliance: Star Alliance
  • Frequent Flyer Program: Infinity MileageLands
  • Main Hub: Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Taipei
  • Best For: Transpacific flights between North America and Asia, and high-quality premium economy travel.
EVA Air

In-Flight Experience: What to Expect Onboard

EVA Air excels in the small details. Even in standard Economy, the airline provides real metal cutlery for meals.

Economy & Premium Economy

EVA Air actually invented Premium Economy back in 1992. Today, their Premium Economy cabins remain industry-leading, featuring wide cradle-style seats with deep recline, dedicated flight attendants, and upgraded dining. Standard Economy is also highly rated, offering excellent legroom and delicious Asian and Western hot meal options.

Royal Laurel Class (Business Class)

EVA Air’s international Business Class is branded as “Royal Laurel.” It features a reverse-herringbone 1-2-1 layout, guaranteeing direct aisle access. It is famous for luxury touches normally reserved for First Class, including vintage Champagne, noise-canceling headphones, and complimentary designer pajamas (even on daytime flights).

EVA Air Baggage Allowance & Policies

Major Update: EVA Air has entirely abandoned the “weight concept” and now uses the Piece Concept across its entire global network.

Fare Class Carry-On Allowance Checked Baggage Inclusion (Global Standard)
Economy (Basic/Discount) 1 piece (Up to 7kg) 1 piece (Up to 23kg)
Economy (Standard/Up) 1 piece (Up to 7kg) 2 pieces (Up to 23kg each)
Premium Economy 1 piece (Up to 7kg) 2 pieces (Up to 23kg each)
Royal Laurel (Business) 2 pieces (Up to 7kg each) 2 pieces (Up to 32kg each)

Elite Status Perk: If you hold EVA Infinity MileageLands Gold/Diamond or Star Alliance Gold status, you are allowed one additional free checked bag across all fare classes.

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: Impeccable onboard service. The cabin crew are rigorously trained, highly polite, and maintain spotless restrooms throughout long 14-hour flights.
  • The Lows: The onboard Wi-Fi is functional but often slower and more expensive than US or Middle Eastern competitors. Additionally, the cabin temperature is often kept quite warm, which some Western travelers find uncomfortable for sleeping.

Pros & Cons of Flying with EVA Air

Pros:

  • 5-Star Skytrax rating for safety and cleanliness.
  • World-class Business Class (Royal Laurel) with free pajamas.
  • Excellent connections through Taipei to Southeast Asia.
  • Generous checked baggage (2 bags standard on most fares).

Cons:

  • Strict 7kg carry-on weight limit that is frequently checked.
  • Discount Economy fares only allow one checked bag.
  • Cabin temperatures can be kept very warm during overnight flights.

Have You Flown with EVA Air?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About EVA Air

What is the baggage limit for EVA Air?

EVA Air now uses the piece concept globally. For standard Economy and Premium Economy, you are generally allowed two checked bags up to 23kg (50 lbs) each. Business Class allows two bags up to 32kg (70 lbs) each. (Note: “Discount Economy” only allows 1 bag).

Is EVA Air Premium Economy worth it?

Yes. EVA Air pioneered Premium Economy and offers one of the best iterations of it in the sky. You get a significantly wider seat, priority baggage handling, upgraded meals, and dedicated cabin crew.

Does EVA Air still fly Hello Kitty planes?

Yes! EVA Air still operates special livery aircraft featuring Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and Bad Badtz-Maru. The theme extends to the interior, featuring themed pillows, safety cards, and even customized toilet paper. These planes fly specific rotating routes, usually within Asia or to Chicago.

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the airline before booking.