WalletHub recently released a ranking of the best airlines in the U.S., comparing nine major domestic airlines and one regional carrier across categories including baggage and departures, in-flight comfort and cost, and safety. Despite losing its crown after two years, Delta Air Lines was still found to be the most reliable airline, with low rates of cancellations, delays, mishandled luggage, and denied boardings. Alaska Airlines took the top spot in the ranking, offering a comfortable in-flight experience with complimentary amenities and membership in the Oneworld alliance, allowing for special perks for passengers.
Alaska Airlines received the most points in WalletHub’s analysis, with a score of 68.07 out of 100. The airline has hubs across the Northwest Coast and offers complimentary in-flight Starbucks to passengers. In addition to being ranked the best U.S. airline, Alaska also offers a top airline rewards program, according to NerdWallet. SkyWest Airlines, a regional carrier that partners with major airlines like Alaska, Delta, United, and American Airlines, took second place in the ranking, with a score of 65.96. SkyWest carried 38.6 million passengers to 237 destinations throughout North America in 2023 and ranked highly for on-time performance.
Spirit Airlines claimed the third spot in the WalletHub ranking, with a score of 65.69. Spirit is known for its ultra-low-cost model, with flights costing about 5.23 cents per mile in 2024. While the airline may not offer a luxurious in-flight experience compared to others, its budget-friendly fares make it a popular choice for travelers looking to save money. Southwest Airlines, on the other hand, ranked last for the third consecutive year with just 36.03 points. Despite this low ranking, Southwest had the lowest percentage of canceled flights based on 2023 data from the Department of Transportation.
In terms of reliability, comfort, affordability, and safety, Alaska Airlines, SkyWest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines were among the top performers in WalletHub’s ranking. Alaska Airlines, in particular, offers a comfortable experience with complimentary amenities, while Spirit Airlines stands out for its budget-friendly fares. Despite ranking last overall, Southwest Airlines had the lowest percentage of canceled flights, indicating a high level of reliability. When booking long-range travel, considering factors like airline rankings, in-flight experience, and safety records can help ensure a pleasant and worry-free journey.
Overall, the ranking by WalletHub provides valuable insights for travelers looking to book long-range travel plans in the U.S. By considering factors such as in-flight amenities, reliability, and affordability, passengers can make informed decisions about which airline to choose for their journey. While Alaska Airlines claimed the top spot in the ranking, other airlines like SkyWest and Spirit also earned high marks for their performance. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each airline can help passengers have a smooth and enjoyable travel experience from booking to arrival at their destination.
