WalletHub researchers compared nine of the nation’s largest airlines and two regional carriers across several key metrics. Here’s how they stacked up.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. β A new study ranked America’s biggest airlines and the top result might surprise you considering the competition.Β
WalletHub researchers compared nine of America’s biggest airlines and two regional carriers across 14 metrics to see who is giving their customers the most bang for their buck and to determine if you truly get what you pay for.Β
According to WalletHub, airline prices went up by 7.9% in 2024, outpacing inflation. And while we know cost isn’t everything, it’s a huge factor for travelers looking to score a deal on their vacation. Besides, choosing the wrong airline will sometimes make you wish you’d spent a little more if the experience is truly terrible. That’s why researchers tried to focus on factors that may fly below the radar when it comes to booking with an airline.Β
Researchers compared the airlines across 14 metrics in four major categories including baggage and departures, animal incidents, in-flight comfort and cost, as well as safety.Β
Spirit Airlines scores big
The budget airline known for its bright yellow jets was the overall winner in the contest with a composite score of 69.12. Unsurprisingly, Spirit was No. 1 for most affordable airline and was also the top safety pick. Spirit’s no-frills mindset did hurt it when it comes to in-flight comfort, but affordability was the company’s biggest strength, according to researchers.Β
RELATED: Spirit Airlines announces new flights from Charlotte starting in May
The best of the rest
SkyWest Airlines was the top regional carrier, coming in at No. 2 overall. From there, it was a who’s who of airlines with Delta, JetBlue and Southwest rounding out the top five overall.Β
American Airlines receives poor grades
Charlotte-based American Airlines came in at No. 10 overall with a score of 45.81. American was the second-best airline for cancellations, but was the worst for delayed flights and mishandled baggage reports.Β
American was the second-most expensive national carrier, coming behind Delta; however, Delta scored much higher in other key categories. American Airlines also scored poorly for its fleet age, with an average fleet age between 10 and 15 years.Β
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