WalletHub recently released a ranking of the best airlines in the U.S., comparing the nine biggest domestic airlines and one regional carrier across 13 metrics in three major categories: Baggage and departures, In-flight comfort and cost, and Safety. Each airline received a score out of 100 points based on factors such as mishandled baggage reports, flight cancellations, availability of complimentary refreshments, and delays. After two years in the top spot, Delta Air Lines slipped to fourth place behind new No. 1 Alaska Airlines, SkyWest, and Spirit. Despite losing its crown, Delta was still found to be the most reliable airline with low rates of cancellations, delays, mishandled luggage, and denied boardings. Alaska Airlines emerged as WalletHub’s No. 1 U.S. airline, offering customers complimentary in-flight Starbucks, hubs across the Northwest Coast, and membership in the Oneworld alliance.
Alaska Airlines was ranked the best U.S. airline according to WalletHub, with a score of 68.07 out of 100 points. The airline also ranked as the third-most reliable and comfortable, and the fourth-most affordable. Alaska Airlines offers passengers special perks through its membership in the Oneworld alliance, such as rebooking flights on other alliance airlines when possible. In addition, the airline was recognized as the best airline and best airline rewards program by NerdWallet. SkyWest Airlines came in second place in the WalletHub ranking, with a score of 65.96. SkyWest is a regional airline that partners with major carriers like Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. In 2023, they carried 38.6 million passengers to 237 destinations throughout North America and ranked in the top three domestic airlines for on-time performance.
Ultra-low-cost Spirit Airlines ranked third in WalletHub’s report, scoring 65.69 points. Spirit Airlines was also recognized as the best airline for budget flyers, offering competitive costs compared to other low-cost carriers. Despite not providing the most comfortable experience in terms of legroom and in-flight entertainment, Spirit Airlines keeps costs low by utilizing an a la carte pricing model where extra amenities come at a cost. Southwest Airlines, on the other hand, ranked last for the third year in a row with just 36.03 points. The Texas-based carrier scored poorly on metrics such as price, safety measures, mishandled baggage reports, and denied boarding. However, Southwest Airlines had the lowest percentage of canceled flights based on 2023 data from the Department of Transportation.
Overall, the best U.S. airlines according to WalletHub’s ranking were Alaska Airlines, SkyWest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. Alaska Airlines received the most points in the analysis, followed by SkyWest in second place, and Spirit Airlines in third. Delta Air Lines, which had held the top spot in previous years, slipped to fourth place but was still recognized as one of the most reliable and comfortable airlines. Despite ranking last, Southwest Airlines had the lowest percentage of canceled flights, showing consistency in their flight operations. Each airline was evaluated based on a variety of metrics including baggage handling, flight cancellations, in-flight amenities, and safety measures. Travelers should consider these rankings when booking long-range travel plans to ensure a pleasant and reliable experience.
