These are the best airlines in 2026, according to The Points Guy

Delta Air Lines has once again been named the top U.S. airline in The Points Guy’s latest annual survey. The survey evaluated airlines based on factors such as reliability, customer experience, loyalty programs, and cost. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines also secured top spots in the 2026 report.

This year, The Points Guy placed extra emphasis on the cost category due to the ongoing Iran war, which has put pressure on airlines to increase prices. Cost accounted for 25% of an airline’s score, up from 20% in the previous year. Rising jet fuel prices have led to hikes in ticket prices and baggage fees across the industry.

Reliability was given the most weight at 30% of the score, followed by loyalty programs at 25%, and travel experience at 20%. Delta Air Lines, for the eighth consecutive year, clinched the top spot in the rankings. The airline’s success has been attributed to its strong employee satisfaction, which translates into a better passenger experience. Delta’s commitment to providing $1.3 billion in profit sharing to its employees further solidifies its reputation as a top airline.

United Airlines stood out for its loyalty program benefits but was held back by a high rate of mishandled bags. Southwest Airlines, despite eliminating its free checked bag policy, secured the third spot with its affordable fares and efficient operations.

In terms of affordability, Frontier Airlines ranked first, followed closely by Spirit Airlines. Delta and United were found to have the highest ticket prices among the airlines surveyed. The Points Guy recommended using AI tools like Autopilot, Junova, PAiback, and JetBack to find cheaper fares. Google Flights was also highlighted as a useful tool for securing deals on European travel, as long as travelers are flexible with their dates.

For travelers looking for the best deals, these rankings offer valuable insights into the top-performing airlines in the U.S. and tips for finding affordable fares. The Points Guy’s annual survey serves as a useful resource for passengers looking to make informed decisions when booking their next flight.