The 10 Nicest U.S. Domestic Planes Ranked for Comfort and Experience
Flying domestically in the U.S. doesn’t always have to mean cramped seats and limited amenities. Some aircraft offer superior comfort, better seating arrangements, upgraded entertainment, and an overall more enjoyable flying experience. Whether you’re looking for extra legroom, high-tech in-flight entertainment, or first-class service, certain planes stand out as the best for domestic travel.
Here’s a ranking of the 10 best U.S. domestic planes, based on cabin comfort, in-flight entertainment, seating configurations, and overall passenger experience.
1. Delta Air Lines Airbus A220-300 – Best Overall Domestic Aircraft
Delta’s Airbus A220-300 is widely considered the best domestic plane for comfort, thanks to spacious seating, modern interiors, and top-notch amenities. With wider seats and larger windows than most narrow-body aircraft, the A220 offers a more relaxed and airy cabin experience.
Passengers enjoy seat-back entertainment screens, USB power at every seat, and a quieter cabin due to advanced noise-reduction technology. The 2-3 seating configuration also means fewer middle seats, making the A220-300 one of the most comfortable domestic planes flying today.
Best for: Passengers looking for the most comfortable and modern domestic flight experience.
2. Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 – Best for West Coast Travelers
Alaska Airlines’ Boeing 737 MAX 9 provides an upgraded and comfortable domestic flying experience, particularly for those traveling up and down the West Coast. The new Boeing Sky Interior, mood lighting, and advanced soundproofing make flights quieter and more enjoyable.
The Premium Class seating offers extra legroom, and Alaska’s in-flight entertainment system allows passengers to stream movies and TV shows directly to their devices for free. With comfy Recaro seats and power outlets at every seat, the 737 MAX 9 is one of the best options for domestic travel.
Best for: West Coast travelers seeking a premium experience on Alaska Airlines.
3. JetBlue Airbus A321neo – Best for Economy Travelers
JetBlue’s Airbus A321neo is one of the most passenger-friendly domestic aircraft, offering the most legroom in economy, seat-back entertainment, and free high-speed Wi-Fi—a rarity on U.S. carriers.
The Airspace cabin design features larger overhead bins, mood lighting, and quieter engines, creating a more relaxed travel experience. JetBlue also provides complimentary snacks and drinks, making it one of the most enjoyable airlines for budget-conscious travelers.
Best for: Economy passengers who want extra legroom and free in-flight Wi-Fi.
4. American Airlines Airbus A321T – Best for First Class and Transcontinental Routes
For premium domestic travel, American Airlines’ Airbus A321T (Transcontinental) stands out as one of the best options, especially on cross-country flights between New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. This aircraft features Flagship First Class suites with lie-flat seats, making it a top-tier option for business travelers and luxury seekers.
Even Main Cabin Extra seats offer extra legroom and more recline, while in-flight Wi-Fi and seat-back entertainment keep passengers entertained throughout the flight.
Best for: Luxury travelers and business flyers on transcontinental routes.
5. United Airlines Boeing 757-200 – Best for Premium Cabin Comfort
United Airlines’ Boeing 757-200 is an aging but well-equipped domestic plane, particularly for those flying in United First or Polaris business class. The 2-2 First Class seating layout offers spacious reclining seats, while Economy Plus provides extra legroom for budget-conscious travelers who want a bit more space.
While the seat-back entertainment has been removed from many aircraft, United provides free streaming via its in-flight Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to watch movies and TV shows on their own devices. The 757-200 still offers one of the best business-class experiences for domestic flights.
Best for: Passengers flying premium cabins and transcontinental routes.
6. Delta Air Lines Boeing 767-300 – Best for Comfort on Long Domestic Flights
Delta’s Boeing 767-300 is often used on long-haul domestic routes and offers wider seats, extra legroom, and a more spacious cabin compared to standard narrow-body jets.
First Class features large reclining seats with ample storage, while Comfort+ seating offers extra legroom and priority boarding. Seat-back screens, power outlets, and free in-flight Wi-Fi ensure a comfortable experience for passengers traveling cross-country.
Best for: Passengers on long domestic flights looking for extra space and comfort.
7. Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 – Best for Budget Travelers
Southwest’s Boeing 737-800 is one of the best planes for budget-conscious travelers who want free perks like no baggage fees, free in-flight entertainment, and two free checked bags.
The open seating policy allows passengers to choose their own seats, and the legroom is slightly more generous than on older 737 models. While there are no seat-back screens, Southwest offers free live TV and on-demand movies via its in-flight Wi-Fi.
Best for: Travelers who want affordability without sacrificing comfort.
8. Hawaiian Airlines Airbus A330-200 – Best for Island-Hopping
Hawaiian Airlines’ Airbus A330-200 provides a spacious and relaxed flying experience, particularly for those traveling between the mainland U.S. and Hawaii. The cabin features a 2-4-2 layout in economy, which means fewer middle seats.
Hawaiian offers complimentary meals on all transpacific flights, adding an extra touch of hospitality. First Class features lie-flat seats, making it one of the most comfortable domestic options for those flying long-haul routes to Hawaii.
Best for: Passengers flying to Hawaii who want extra comfort and perks.
9. United Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 – Best for Modern Features
United’s Boeing 737 MAX 8 features the airline’s new signature interior with better seats, larger overhead bins, and seat-back entertainment on most aircraft.
The improved cabin soundproofing and mood lighting make for a more enjoyable experience, while the updated economy seats have larger tray tables and cup holders. United’s new domestic first-class seats also provide more recline and additional privacy.
Best for: Passengers looking for a modernized, comfortable domestic flight.
10. Frontier Airlines Airbus A321 – Best Ultra-Low-Cost Option
While Frontier Airlines is known for bare-bones, budget-friendly flights, its Airbus A321 offers a smoother and more spacious cabin compared to older aircraft. The newest A321 models feature a quieter interior and extra overhead space.
Though the seats are basic with no seat-back entertainment, Frontier’s A321 remains a decent choice for short domestic flights where affordability is the priority.
Best for: Travelers who prioritize low fares over premium amenities.
