Avid travelers from all over the world know their favorite airlines that they consistently book. It is no secret that some airlines are preferable over others, depending on the type of traveler. For domestic travelers, there are so many options to choose from. While no airline is the same (and in some cases, even comparable), some stand out from the rest. Price is commonly the leading factor for travelers that have a favorite airline, but factors like amenities, in-flight space, and safety contribute to what airlines are considered the best by travelers.
Check out our lineup of the best domestic airlines for the new year. Whether travelers are booking in the shoulder season or peak season, flying with a reputable airline is undoubtedly best. These top rated airlines are the best to fly in an array of categories, according to WalletHub (which rates airlines). From the best budget airline to the bougiest, these are the top options for 2024 travel.
Best Overall Airline
According to WalletHub, Delta Airlines has been the most reliable airline for the last few years. This calculation is based on the airline having the least amount of delays, mishandled luggage and other issues that would negatively impact their passengers. With the highest percentage of on-time arrivals (81.82% according to the aviation data provider Cirium), the airline gets bonus points for reliability. In fact, for the third time in a row the airline has won the platinum award for operational excellence. The airline has clearly established itself as a solid competitor, which reflects in its popularity.
Most Affordable Airline
The best budget airline is Spirit Airlines, by a landslide. The airline has consistently provided the most affordable prices to its passengers. Average domestic ticket prices for Spirit flights are around $98 (compared to hundreds of dollars with other airlines) and prices are cheapest around April. While standard tickets from Spirit only guarantee passengers a randomized seat on the plane, since charges apply for specific spots, many travelers still prefer their ultra low fares. If travelers do not mind having to pay for beverages or drinks, a little less seat room and no in-flight entertainment, then Spirit is the budget airline for them. Over the years Spirit has only really experienced price competition from Frontier Airlines, which travelers will notice has offered similar yet inconsistent pricing.
Most Comfortable Airline
JetBlue Airways is the top-rated airline for comfortability. The airline has a highly rated inflight experience that keeps flyers coming back. It excels in many categories. JetBlue offers a lot of free amenities, which travelers surely appreciate since many airlines charge for the same perks. Wifi, extra legroom (which is a huge deal for long flights) and even refreshments and snacks are included in a flight with JetBlue. JetBlue also offers seat-back screens at every seat with live television and free movies, so travelers do not have to worry about entertaining themselves while flying. The airline’s highly rated in-flight experience is followed by Delta which has a good amount of pleasantries too, but does not quite stack up against JetBlue.
Safest Airline
Airlines that have the least amount of incidents boast exceptional employee training, top-notch safety standards and fleets that are modern and young. Of course, travelers want to arrive at their destination safely and avoid any travel stress. These airlines have proven to be the most reliable in terms of passenger safety and security. Check out the safest airlines to fly in 2024, for both budget and elite flyers.
Overall Safest Airline
Envoy Air is a lesser known airline but it is actually one of the safest. Envoy is owned by American Airlines technically, but it is a regional carrier. The long standing airline is a commercial airline that has not had fatalities in the last five years (that are due to aircrafts) and less injuries overall that required medical assistance. Envoy has a strong safety record and is known for its fleet quality. It is an industry leader in airline pilot training and regularly passes safety audits (which assesses flight operations, ground handling, security management and maintenance).
Safest Budget Airline
The runner-up for safe flying is Spirit Airlines. Spirit is a top-budget airline that has a questionable reputation, but it is still a safe option compared to others. Over the last two years, Spirit has earned its place as one of the safest budget airlines by requiring rigorous training and experience from its crew. The affordable airline even ranks as one of the top 25 safest airlines globally, according to crash data and its young and energy-efficient fleet. What the airline lacks in frills it makes up for in safety.
Most Pet Friendly Airline
SkyWest Airlines and Envoy Air are the best, in terms of the top options to fly with furry (or other pet) friends. The Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that both domestic airlines have no reported animal incidents even after transporting 10,000 animals in a given year. According to DOT’s Consumer Report Archive, an incident includes improper care of cargo animals or pet carriers, death, injury or loss of a pet. Which, clearly, no pet parent wants to happen. Travelers wanting to fly with their beloved companions can trust both SkyWest and Envoy Air.