Top 10 Airlines in the United States in 2024

In today’s interconnected world, air travel is a vital link that connects people and businesses across vast distances. The quality of airline services is essential in ensuring that journeys are comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable. This article aims to highlight the top airlines in the United States, focusing on their ability to meet and exceed passenger expectations through superior service, operational reliability, and unwavering commitment to safety.

We will explore how these airlines excel in various aspects, setting high standards in the aviation industry. By examining their customer service, operational efficiency, and safety records, we provide a comprehensive overview of what makes these airlines leaders in the field. From the quality of in-flight services and ground operations to their ability to handle unexpected situations, these airlines demonstrate a commitment to excellence that sets them apart.

Let’s explore the top airlines in the USA, offering insights into how they maintain their reputations for outstanding service and reliability. Through this analysis, we aim to shed light on the best options for travelers seeking dependable and pleasant air travel experiences in a dynamic and competitive industry.

A List of the Top Airlines in the United States

Here is a list of the top 10 airlines in the United States; we’ll go over each of them in detail below.

• Delta Airlines
• United Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• Allegiant Airlines
• Frontier Airlines

1. Delta Airlines

Delta Air Lines stands out for its timeliness and effective management of involuntary bumps, earning a total score of 66.31. It is one of the Largest Airlines in the World. However, affordability is noted as its weakest point. Despite this, Delta consistently garners praise for its high-quality in-flight service and superior on-ground facilities. The airline’s Sky Clubs at major U.S. airports are well-known for their comfort and facilities.

Delta’s $4 billion new terminal at LaGuardia Airport in New York is a shining illustration of its dedication to the traveler experience. This terminal boasts high ceilings, wood and marble accents, and striking artwork by local artists, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Delta also integrates advanced technology to streamline check-in and boarding processes, making travel more convenient. In-flight amenities, such as free text messaging, add to passenger satisfaction. For those flying in Delta One business class, the Airbus A350 and other wide-body jets offer luxurious suites.

Delta’s expanding route network includes exotic destinations like Tahiti, Tel Aviv, and Cape Town, allowing travelers to enjoy these benefits on a growing number of international journeys. Through continuous improvements and a focus on passenger comfort, Delta remains a top choice for both domestic and international travelers.

2. United Airlines

United Airlines achieved a score of 62.47, underscoring its strengths in catering to family travel, an extensive route network, and robust frequent flier programs. However, the airline has areas for improvement in baggage handling and pricing. Details about its previous year’s ranking were not disclosed.

United Airlines is based in Chicago and has eight hubs around the country, including one on Guam. It offers a wide range of domestic and international destinations. This extensive reach allows travelers access to a wide variety of locations worldwide.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, United eliminated change fees for most flights, making travel plans more flexible and accommodating for passengers. Additionally, the airline is set to enhance its fleet with the addition of 270 new Boeing and Airbus planes. With more comfort and cutting-edge technology, these new aircraft aim to enhance the flying experience. Moreover, they are more environmentally friendly, reducing carbon emissions by 17 to 20% per seat compared to older models.

United’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience and sustainability positions it as a competitive choice for travelers. By addressing areas like baggage handling and pricing, United aims to improve its overall service and customer satisfaction further.

3. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines achieved a score of 60.54, excelling in lounge quality and overall customer satisfaction, though it needs improvement in baggage handling. The ranking from the previous year was not disclosed.

Known for its reliability, friendly flight staff, and extensive rewards program, Alaska Airlines is a favorite among travelers. Despite being the fifth-largest airline in the United States, it maintains a unique charm with Pacific Northwest touches like local wine and artisan beer served onboard. Its route network extends well beyond its namesake region, covering destinations from Hawaii to New York and the Pacific Northwest to Mexico and Latin America.

In line with its Seattle-area roots and tech-forward mindset, Alaska Airlines recently partnered with Twelve, a company that produces sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from captured carbon dioxide. This effort reflects the airline’s dedication to sustainability and innovation in the aviation sector.

Alaska Airlines continues to build on its strengths by offering dependable service and unique regional experiences. Addressing its baggage handling issues could further enhance its reputation and customer satisfaction. With its expanding route map and sustainability efforts, Alaska Airlines remains a top choice for travelers seeking a reliable and environmentally conscious airline.

4. American Airlines

American Airlines achieved a score of 59.83, demonstrating strengths in its extensive route network and award availability. However, it faces challenges with luggage management and pricing. The ranking from the previous year was not disclosed.

As the world’s largest airline by fleet size and number of scheduled passengers, American Airlines operates from 10 domestic hubs, including major bases in Miami and Dallas/Fort Worth. The airline has significantly expanded its presence in the Caribbean and Latin America, with new routes to destinations such as San Andres Island in Colombia and Chetumal in Mexico. Notably, American Airlines now serves 28 cities in Mexico, more than any other U.S. airline, establishing itself as a dominant player in the region.

In a move towards innovation, American Airlines agreed in August 2022 to purchase 20 Boom Supersonic jets, aiming to revolutionize its transatlantic and transpacific services. These jets promise to significantly reduce flight times, offering passengers a faster and more efficient travel experience.

American Airlines continues to leverage its vast network and pioneering initiatives to enhance its service offerings. By addressing its luggage management and pricing issues, the airline could further solidify its position as a leader in the global aviation industry.

America also has one of the largest airports named Denver International (DEN) — Denver, CO, USA.

5. Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines earned a score of 56.29, excelling in eliminating baggage and change fees and ensuring award availability. However, it struggled with handling cancellations and providing lounge services. The previous year’s ranking was not disclosed.

Southwest Airlines has expanded far beyond its original geographic focus, now offering routes from Hawaii to Latin America and the Caribbean. The airline is known for its low fares and the customer-friendly “bags fly free” policy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Despite some quirks, such as its unique boarding process, Southwest maintains a loyal customer base.

Southwest has introduced newer amenities like in-flight Wi-Fi to enhance the travel experience. While the basic service typically includes a complimentary beverage and snack, these updates have helped improve the overall customer experience. Despite the simplicity of its offerings, Southwest remains a top choice for those seeking value for money.

Although the airline faces challenges with cancellations and lacks premium lounge services, it continues to attract passengers with its straightforward, cost-effective approach. By addressing these weaknesses, Southwest Airlines could further improve its reputation and performance, maintaining its position as a favored carrier for many travelers.

6. Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines achieved a score of 54.71, excelling in managing cancellations and involuntary bumps. However, it needs to improve its route network. The previous year’s ranking was not disclosed.

Originally a local-service airline, Hawaiian Airlines has grown significantly, now operating an extensive network of inter-island, U.S. mainland, and long-distance Pacific flights. It is particularly favored for its premium cabin, featuring lie-flat seating on ultra-long-haul routes, and for its unique island-inspired food and beverage offerings. 

Passengers can enjoy Maui Brewing Company beer and hard seltzer, Honolulu-roasted Lion Coffee, caramel macadamia nut popcorn, and furikake chips. In collaboration with On the Rocks, Hawaiian Airlines offers bottled cocktails such as the Mai Tai, the passion fruit-infused Molokai Mule, and the Tropical Landing, a gin-based drink with violet, coconut, guava, and citrus.

Hawaiian Airlines is renowned for its punctuality and is consistently rated as the most reliable carrier in the country. This reliability, combined with its unique in-flight offerings, makes it a standout choice for many travelers. However, expanding its route network could enhance its appeal further, allowing more passengers to experience its exceptional service and island-inspired hospitality.

7. JetBlue Airlines

JetBlue Airways received a score of 47.68. It was praised for its cabin features but faced challenges with punctuality, cancellations, and accommodating wheelchairs/scooters. The previous year’s ranking was not disclosed.

JetBlue has given customers new reasons to choose their hometown airline, notably with the launch of flights to London from JFK Airport in 2021. These flights feature an expanded Mint Class premium cabin with large flat-bed sleeper seats, and routes from Boston to both Heathrow and Gatwick were added last year, enhancing its transatlantic service.

The airline has also introduced new seats and extra legroom throughout the plane, which have been well-received by travelers. Additionally, JetBlue offers free Wi-Fi, branded as “Fly-Fi,” which is known for providing one of the fastest internet connections available in the air. JetBlue is also one of the few airlines that continues to offer seat-back entertainment, including free live TV, which enhances the in-flight experience.

Despite its strengths, JetBlue must address issues with timing, cancellations, and accessibility to improve its overall performance and customer satisfaction. By focusing on these areas, JetBlue can build on its reputation for offering a comfortable and connected flying experience, making it a more attractive option for travelers.

8. Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines received a score of 38.99, emphasizing its strong affordability. However, it faces challenges with handling wheelchairs and scooters, as well as optimizing its route network. The previous year’s ranking was not disclosed.

Despite its low AirAdvisor Airline Score of 37, Spirit Airlines continues to attract nearly 40 million passengers annually, indicating a strong demand for its budget-friendly fares. Known for its ultra-low-cost model, Spirit appeals to cost-conscious travelers who prioritize price over frills. However, the airline’s customer reputation rating is 9th, reflecting mixed feedback about the overall travel experience.

Spirit Airlines offers basic services with additional fees for extras such as checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight refreshments. This a-la-carte pricing structure allows passengers to pay only for what they use, making it a popular choice for those looking to save on travel expenses.

While affordability is a significant draw, Spirit’s customer service issues, particularly in accommodating passengers with disabilities and optimizing its route network, remain areas for improvement. By addressing these challenges, Spirit Airlines could enhance its customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, making it a more competitive player in the budget airline market. Overall, Spirit Airlines remains a viable option for travelers seeking the lowest fares despite its current shortcomings.

9. Allegiant Airlines

Allegiant Air received a score of 37.04, noted for its handling of involuntary bumps, baggage, and accommodations for passengers with wheelchairs/scooters. However, concerns were raised regarding timeliness, cabin features, and family-related services. The ranking from the prior year was not disclosed.

Despite these challenges, Allegiant Air garners support from passengers for its consistent and affordable service. Travelers appreciate the airline’s low-cost fares, even though amenities may be limited, requiring passengers to bring their food.

Allegiant Air stands out for its focus on regional airports, offering routes between smaller cities that may not be serviced by other airlines. This regional connectivity is particularly valued by passengers, with routes like Savannah to Akron-Canton, Grand Rapids to Sarasota, and various destinations to Tampa-Clearwater Bay highlighted for their accessibility and affordability. For example, round-trip tickets on the Savannah to Akron-Canton route start at approximately $120, making air travel more accessible for travelers in these regions.

While Allegiant Air faces challenges in certain areas, its commitment to providing affordable regional air travel options has earned it a dedicated customer base. With continued efforts to address concerns around timeliness and service quality, Allegiant Air aims to enhance its overall passenger experience and maintain its position as a preferred choice for budget-conscious travelers flying to regional destinations.

10. Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines achieved a score of 27.74, primarily recognized for its affordability. However, challenges related to involuntary bumps, customer satisfaction, and various fee-related issues hindered its overall performance. The ranking from the previous year was not disclosed.

Headquartered in Denver, Frontier Airlines distinguishes itself as one of North America’s cleanest airlines, boasting a significantly lower carbon footprint than its competitors. This commitment to sustainability is evident through initiatives such as utilizing 30% lighter seats, employing fuel-efficient engines, and implementing biodegradable cups onboard.

Since the mid-1990s, Frontier has adorned its aircraft tails with vibrant illustrations of wildlife, symbolizing its environmental consciousness. Recent additions to its tail art include creatures like Francie the piping plover, Crystal the Florida manatee, and Hudson the bog turtle.

In line with its expansion efforts, Frontier recently introduced ten new nonstop routes to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, enhancing its connectivity and accessibility for travelers. Despite its challenges, Frontier Airlines continues to offer budget-friendly fares and a commitment to environmental stewardship, attracting passengers seeking affordable travel options with a focus on sustainability. By addressing concerns related to customer satisfaction and service quality, Frontier aims to improve its overall effectiveness and enhance the passenger experience.

Also read: 15 Longest Highways in the USA

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice of airline significantly shapes your travel experience, and this guide highlights the consistent performers in various areas, such as Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, and JetBlue Airways. However, each of these top airlines in the United States has its strengths and weaknesses, underscoring the importance of aligning your choice with your specific preferences and priorities.

Factors such as cost, reliability, rewards programs, and in-flight amenities should all be considered when selecting an airline for your next trip. While no single carrier can perfectly meet every traveler’s needs, this analysis provides objective insights to help you find the airline that best meets your expectations.

Delta Air Lines has clinched the top spot in TPG’s rankings for the sixth consecutive year despite a slight decrease in its total score compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, competitors like Alaska, American, and United have shown improvement. Whether this decline for Delta is a temporary setback or a sign of emerging challenges to its dominance remains to be seen.

Ultimately, travelers benefit from a competitive airline industry that continually strives to enhance its services and offerings. By staying informed and making informed choices, we can ensure more enjoyable and satisfying travel experiences in the future.

FAQs

Which Airlines Are the Best in the United States?

Conde Nast Traveler’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards recognized Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, Tradewind Aviation, JetBlue Airways, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines as the top airlines in the United States.

Which Airline is Recommended as the Top Choice for Flying?

Delta Airlines stands out as the top performer on the AirAdvisor Airline Score list and has been consistently voted the best airline for both 2022 and 2023 (to date). Choosing Delta ensures passengers can expect excellent service, comfortable flights, and punctual arrivals. Additionally, Delta is particularly suitable for traveling with children or pets.

Which Airline Offers the Most Luxurious First-Class Cabin Experience and Perks?

For both domestic and international travel, American Airlines’ A321 planes stand out as an excellent choice. In their Flagship First Class Section, passengers can enjoy lie-flat seats arranged in a one-seat-per-row format on each side of the aisle, along with chef-curated in-flight beverages. Alternatively, JetBlue’s Mint category provides the epitome of business-class luxury in the United States, featuring spacious seats, privacy screens, multiple plug connections, and tapas-style food.

Is Qatar Airways Financially Prosperous?

Qatar Airways reported revenue of 52 billion Qatar Riyals in fiscal year 2022, solidifying its position as the second-largest airline in operation in the Middle East. Additionally, in 2015, the airline expanded its aircraft fleet with 43 leases in the Middle East region.

What Is the Longest Flight Route Globally?

The Singapore-New York flight route currently holds the title of the longest nonstop flight in the world. Launched in 2020, this service emphasizes passenger comfort and incorporates state-of-the-art technology. Spanning 9,537 miles, the flight from New York to Singapore takes approximately 18 hours and 40 minutes to complete.