Ranked: The Best Airlines of 2024 According to a New Report

Airline Jet Terminal Runway — 4045 from Getty Images

Written By

Will Tracy

The airline industry continues to evolve in the wake of the global pandemic, with travelers prioritizing safety, comfort, and reliability alongside cost. WalletHub, a personal finance website, has released its annual rankings of the best U.S. airlines for 2024, offering insights into the top performers across multiple categories. This report evaluates the nine largest national airlines and one regional carrier based on 2023 flight data, focusing on metrics like cancellations, delays, baggage handling, and in-flight amenities.

Table of Contents

Alaska Airlines Takes the Top Spot

This year, Alaska Airlines claimed the top position, dethroning Delta Air Lines, which led in 2022 and 2023. Alaska Airlines excelled in customer satisfaction, offering features like ample legroom, complimentary refreshments, and robust safety measures. WalletHub analyst Cassandra Happe noted that Alaska’s consistent performance across various categories propelled it back to the number one spot. The airline ranked first in safety metrics, including low rates of injuries and incidents.

However, Alaska Airlines faced challenges in early 2024, including a mid-flight incident involving a door plug and a tech issue affecting flight weight calculations. These events could influence its rankings in 2025.

Other High Performers

SkyWest Airlines followed Alaska Airlines, while Spirit Airlines surprisingly secured the third spot. Known for budget travel, Spirit demonstrated improvements in safety, earning recognition as the safest airline due to its commendable safety record with no fatalities and minimal injuries between 2018 and 2023.

Delta Air Lines ranked fourth overall but emerged as the most reliable airline for the second consecutive year. Its low rates of cancellations, delays, and mishandled baggage solidified its reputation for dependability. Frontier Airlines, however, was named the least reliable due to frequent delays and denied boardings.

Comfort and Affordability

First Class Flight Seats Airplane — JodiJacobson from Getty Images Signature.

Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways tied as the most comfortable airlines, offering amenities like free Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and complimentary snacks. In contrast, Frontier Airlines ranked as the least comfortable due to a lack of amenities.

Spirit Airlines not only earned recognition for safety but also claimed the title of the most affordable airline, offering budget-friendly fares. American Airlines, on the other hand, was identified as the most expensive carrier.

Challenges for Low Performers

Southwest Airlines landed at the bottom of the rankings for the third year in a row. Despite satisfactory performance in baggage handling and departure metrics, it struggled with safety scores, mishandled baggage, and price competitiveness. WalletHub emphasized that Southwest must address these issues to improve its standing.

Key Takeaways from WalletHub’s Report

WalletHub’s analysis goes beyond ticket prices, offering a holistic view of airline performance. The rankings provide travelers with valuable insights to make informed decisions. The methodology compared airlines across several categories, emphasizing reliability, comfort, safety, and affordability.

Most Reliable Airline: Delta Air Lines
Most Comfortable Airlines: Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways (tie)
Safest Airline: Spirit Airlines
Most Affordable Airline: Spirit Airlines

2024 Overall Rankings: Best Airlines in the U.S.

Alaska Airlines
SkyWest Airlines
Spirit Airlines
Delta Air Lines
United Airlines
JetBlue Airways
Hawaiian Airlines
American Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines

Reliability, Comfort, and Safety Leaders

Delta led in reliability with minimal cancellations and delays, while Spirit Airlines impressed with its safety record. Delta and JetBlue tied for comfort, offering free amenities that enhanced passenger experiences.

Looking Ahead

WalletHub’s report underscores the changing dynamics of air travel, with airlines striving to meet evolving traveler expectations. As safety, comfort, and reliability gain importance, these rankings highlight the airlines excelling in these areas and those needing improvement. Travelers can use these insights to choose airlines that align with their priorities, ensuring smoother and more enjoyable journeys.

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