Top 9 U.S. Airlines Ranked: Discover the Best Airlines for Your Next Trip

Air travel can be an exhilarating part of the journey or a stressful experience you just want to get through. Over the years, I’ve flown with some of the world’s best airlines, and while some stood out for their incredible service, others didn’t quite meet expectations. In this blog, I’ll rank the top 10 U.S. airlines based on personal experiences, as well as insights from customer reviews and performance metrics—covering everything from in-flight entertainment to customer satisfaction. Whether you’re heading to New York, Europe, or just across the U.S., this guide will help you choose the best airline for your next trip.

So, let’s dive into my rankings, starting from 10th place and counting down to the very best.

9. Spirit Airlines

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Known for its no-frills approach, Spirit Airlines offers some of the cheapest flights in America. However, like Frontier, Spirit charges for carry-ons, seat assignments, and even drinks. With minimal legroom and economy class comfort, it’s not the best choice for long-haul flights, but it gets the job done if you’re traveling on a tight budget.

Pros:

• Some of the lowest fares in the U.S.
• Simple, no-fuss booking process

Cons:

• Numerous add-on fees
• Basic seats with limited comfort

I’ve flown Spirit a few times, including a quick trip to Florida. While I appreciated the low fare, I found the extra fees made the overall cost less appealing. Still, if price is your top priority, Spirit can get you where you need to go.

Looking for the lowest fares? Book your Spirit Airlines flight on Booking.com.

8. Allegiant Air

Find low-cost Allegiant Air flights on Booking.com here

If you’re looking for affordable domestic flights, Allegiant Air is a decent option. The airline primarily focuses on serving smaller, regional airports and keeps costs low by offering non-stop routes. However, the airline is notorious for charging fees for everything, and customer reviews often mention subpar service.

Pros:

• Low fares and non-stop routes
• Great for flying to smaller cities

Cons:

• Fees for baggage, seat selection, and more
• Limited in-flight service and amenities

I flew Allegiant to Las Vegas on a weekend getaway. While the price was great, I found myself paying for baggage and seat selection, which took away some of the cost savings. Still, if you’re looking for a cheap direct flight to smaller cities, Allegiant is worth considering.

Looking for a budget-friendly flight? Book your Allegiant Air flight on Booking.com.

7. American Airlines

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American Airlines is a major U.S. airline with a vast domestic and international route network. While American Airlines has improved its in-flight offerings, especially in business class, their customer service and on-time performance remain inconsistent, which can be frustrating. However, their AAdvantage frequent flier program is a great perk for regular travelers.

Pros:

• Extensive route network across the U.S. and internationally
• Strong frequent flier program

Cons:

• Inconsistent customer service
• Often more expensive than budget airlines

On a flight from Dallas to Los Angeles, my check-in process was delayed, but once I boarded, the flight was smooth, and the in-flight entertainment options were a nice touch. While American Airlines isn’t always my first choice, their large route network makes them a convenient option for many destinations.

Planning your next adventure? Book your American Airlines flight on Booking.com.

6. United Airlines

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United Airlines is one of the largest U.S. airlines, offering extensive domestic and international routes, including flights to Europe and Asia. While their customer satisfaction ratings have improved, United still has room for improvement, especially in economy class. However, the airline’s business class experience, especially on Boeing Dreamliners, has received positive reviews, making it a strong option for long-haul travel.

Pros:

• Wide range of international destinations
• Improved in-flight experience, especially in business class

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on customer service
• Fees for checked baggage

I flew United Airlines to London recently and was impressed with the upgraded in-flight entertainment and their Economy Plus seating. While the customer service could use some improvement, their wide route network makes United a solid choice for international travel.

Looking to fly internationally? Book your United Airlines flight on Booking.com here.

5. Hawaiian Airlines

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Flying with Hawaiian Airlines is like starting your vacation the moment you board. The airline is known for excellent customer satisfaction, comfortable seating, and good in-flight meals. Whether you’re flying to Hawaii or beyond, Hawaiian Airlines offers a premium travel experience compared to other domestic airlines, especially for flights over the Pacific.

Pros:

• Great in-flight service with Hawaiian hospitality
• Comfortable seating for long flights
• Good in-flight meals

Cons:

• Limited routes outside the Pacific
• Higher ticket prices compared to budget airlines

On a recent trip to Maui, the flight attendants embodied the aloha spirit, and the overall service exceeded my expectations. The comfortable seating and delicious in-flight meal made the flight a breeze, setting the tone for a relaxing vacation.

Ready to embrace the aloha spirit? Book your Hawaiian Airlines flight on Booking.com.

4. JetBlue Airways

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JetBlue consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys, and after flying with them multiple times, it’s easy to see why. They offer more legroom than most U.S. airlines, along with excellent in-flight entertainment and complimentary snacks. Their Wi-Fi is fast, and even their basic economy class seats are more comfortable than most.

Pros:

• Spacious seating with extra legroom
• Free Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment
• Friendly cabin crew

Cons:

• Limited international routes
• Sometimes struggles with on-time performance

On a flight from New York to Boston, I was impressed by how comfortable the seats were, especially compared to other domestic airlines. The free Wi-Fi and movie selection helped pass the time, and the extra legroom made the trip more enjoyable.

Looking for a more comfortable in-flight experience? Book your JetBlue flight on Booking.com here.

3. Alaska Airlines

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Alaska Airlines has long been a customer favorite due to its excellent service and on-time performance. While they don’t have the international reach of other airlines, Alaska excels in domestic routes and offers a great frequent flyer program. Their service is consistently friendly, and they score high marks for customer satisfaction.

Pros:

• Top-rated service and on-time performance
• Great frequent flier program

Cons:

• Smaller route network, primarily serving the U.S. West Coast
• Limited in-flight entertainment options

I flew Alaska Airlines to Seattle recently, and their service was excellent. The flight was on time, the staff was accommodating, and the overall experience was smooth from start to finish.

Looking for reliable, friendly service? Book your Alaska Airlines flight on Booking.com.

2. Southwest Airlines

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Southwest Airlines is easily one of the best budget-friendly options in the U.S. Their no-hidden-fees policy and two free checked bags are great for travelers who want to avoid additional costs. While they don’t offer assigned seating, their open seating policy works well for those who check in early. The laid-back vibe and friendly service make every trip enjoyable.

Pros:

• No change fees and two free checked bags
• Friendly service and laid-back atmosphere

Cons:

• No assigned seating
• Limited in-flight entertainment

On a trip to Denver, I traveled with a lot of gear for skiing, and Southwest’s two free checked bags policy was a lifesaver. The flight was smooth, and the crew was incredibly friendly, as always. Southwest consistently delivers excellent value without sacrificing service.

Looking for affordable, fee-free flying? Book your next Southwest flight on Booking.com.

1. Delta Airlines

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Delta Airlines earns the top spot for its consistent reliability, excellent customer service, and high-quality in-flight experience. I’ve flown with Delta more times than I can count, and they always deliver. From the on-time performance to the comfortable cabins and impressive in-flight entertainment, Delta is my top choice for both domestic and international flights.

Pros:

• Best-in-class in-flight entertainment
• Friendly and professional staff
• Consistently on-time

Cons:

• Slightly higher fares compared to budget airlines
• Competitive frequent flier upgrades

On a last-minute business trip to New York, Delta quickly rebooked me after a weather delay, and the entire process was seamless. This kind of reliability is why I always check Delta first when booking a flight.

Ready to experience Delta’s award-winning service? Book your Delta flight on Booking.com today.

Wrapping It Up: Choose Your Airline Wisely

No two airlines are exactly alike, and each has its strengths and weaknesses depending on your needs. Whether you’re looking for top-tier service with Delta, the no-fuss affordability of Southwest, or just the lowest possible fare with Spirit, there’s an airline here that’s perfect for your next trip.

Ready to book your next adventure? Explore these airlines on Booking.com and find the flight that’s right for you! Safe travels!