Choosing the best airline to fly can be a complex decision, especially in today’s dynamic travel landscape. Factors like reliability, safety, comfort, and price all play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. WalletHub’s 2024 airline rankings provide valuable insights to help travelers make informed choices.
WalletHub’s comprehensive analysis, utilizing 2023 flight data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, evaluated major U.S. airlines based on various metrics. These include cancellations, delays, baggage handling, in-flight comfort, and overall service quality. While ticket prices are a significant consideration, this report delves deeper, recognizing that a truly positive travel experience encompasses much more than just cost.
Graphic of Best Airlines in 2024
WalletHub’s 2024 Best Airline Rankings: Key Findings
Alaska Airlines takes the crown as the best airline in 2024, reclaiming the top spot after Delta Air Lines held it for two consecutive years. Alaska’s consistent performance across various metrics, including in-flight comfort, cost, and safety, propelled them to first place. However, recent incidents in 2024, such as a mid-flight door plug failure and a system-wide grounding due to a technical issue, could potentially affect future rankings.
Surprisingly, Spirit Airlines secured the third position, challenging the perception of budget airlines solely focusing on affordability. Spirit’s strong performance in safety metrics contributed significantly to its high ranking. Meanwhile, Southwest Airlines remained in last place for the third year running, struggling with mishandled baggage reports, denied boardings, and lower safety scores.
Best Airlines by Category: Reliability, Comfort, Safety, and Affordability
Beyond the overall rankings, WalletHub also identified top performers in specific categories:
Reliability:
Delta Air Lines retained its title as the most reliable airline for the second consecutive year, minimizing cancellations, delays, mishandled luggage, and denied boardings. Frontier Airlines ranked last in reliability due to high rates of denied boardings and flight delays.
Comfort:
Delta Air Lines and JetBlue Airways shared the top spot for comfort, offering complimentary amenities like Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and refreshments. Frontier Airlines lagged behind in comfort due to a lack of similar perks.
Safety:
Spirit Airlines emerged as the safest airline, with an impressive safety record, including zero fatalities and minimal injuries between 2018 and 2023. Alaska Airlines secured the second position in safety, demonstrating a commitment to passenger well-being.
Graphic of Safest Airlines in 2024
Affordability:
Spirit Airlines claimed the title of the most affordable airline, while American Airlines was ranked the most expensive.
Choosing the Best Airline for Your Needs
The “best” airline ultimately depends on individual priorities. While Alaska Airlines leads in overall performance, Delta excels in reliability and comfort, Spirit shines in safety and affordability.
Graphic of Safest Airlines in 2024
Consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision. If reliability is paramount, Delta might be your best bet. For budget-conscious travelers prioritizing safety, Spirit Airlines presents a compelling option. If comfort is key, Delta or JetBlue could be ideal. By carefully weighing these factors, you can choose the airline that best suits your travel requirements.
