These are the top airlines in the U.S., according to The Points Guy
Looking to plan your summer travels and wondering which airline to choose for the best experience? The Points Guy (TPG), a trusted online resource for improving travel experiences and saving money, has recently released its annual ranking of the best airlines in the U.S.
TPG founder and CEO Brian Kelly explained that airlines are ranked based on four key criteria: reliability and performance, passenger experience, cost and reach, and the quality of their loyalty or rewards program. With recent airline disruptions in mind, travelers are paying closer attention to the airlines they choose to fly with.
“This is not just my personal opinion,” Kelly emphasized in an interview with CBS Mornings. “We have a formula that considers a lot of data. Reliability is a top priority when it comes to airline rankings, accounting for 30% of the overall score.”
In addition to reliability, TPG also evaluates the passenger experience, cost and reach of the airline’s network, and the quality of their loyalty program. These factors make up the comprehensive ranking system used by TPG to determine the best airlines in the U.S.
Delta Air Lines secured the top spot for the seventh consecutive year, thanks to its strong performance across all categories. Known for being the most reliable on-time airline in America, Delta also offers passengers free Wi-Fi, a wide range of inflight entertainment options, and meals from popular chains like Shake Shack.
United Airlines claimed the second spot, moving up from third place last year due to an improved onboard experience. A recent partnership with JetBlue is expected to further enhance United’s offerings and benefits for loyalty members, potentially boosting its ranking in the future.
Southwest Airlines climbed two spots to secure third place, with its low flight cancellation rate being a standout feature. However, recent changes to fee structures, including the end of the “bags fly free” policy and the introduction of a new basic economy fare, may impact its ranking in the future.
The full rankings, according to TPG, are as follows:
1. Delta Air Lines
2. United Airlines
3. Southwest Airlines
4. Alaska Airlines
5. Hawaiian Airlines
6. JetBlue
7. American Airlines
8. Allegiant Air
9. Spirit Airlines
10. Frontier Airlines
As travelers continue to prioritize reliability, passenger experience, and cost when choosing airlines for their travels, the annual ranking by TPG serves as a valuable resource for making informed decisions. Whether you’re planning a vacation or a business trip, selecting the right airline can greatly impact your overall travel experience.
