When flying in the U.S., choosing the right airline can make all the difference between a stressful experience and a smooth journey. With so many options available, knowing which ten US airlines are worth choosing can help travelers maximize comfort, convenience, and value. From top-tier customer service to reliable flight schedules, some airlines stand out for providing a better overall experience.
These airlines offer various benefits, including comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment, and quality food options, all while prioritizing customer satisfaction. Whether it's a short domestic flight or a long-haul journey, these airlines consistently earn praise for their efficiency and passenger care. Ready to make your next flight a better one? Here are 10 US airlines worth considering when you have options.
Delta Air Lines
Delta consistently ranks among the top U.S. airlines for a reason. Flights are often on time, aircraft cabins are clean and well-maintained, and crew members are typically courteous and professional. Passengers have access to seatback entertainment, complimentary snacks, and strong in-flight Wi-Fi. The SkyMiles program rewards frequent flyers with meaningful perks like free upgrades and early boarding. Delta lounges, available in major airports, offer quiet spaces to work or rest. With a wide network of domestic and international routes, it's a dependable choice whether you're flying cross-country or heading overseas. Service is polished without being impersonal or rigid.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines stands out with consistent service, friendly crews, and an excellent reputation for punctual departures. While it started as a regional West Coast carrier, its expanded network now includes cross-country and international flights. The airline has earned praise for transparent pricing and reliable flight tracking. Its Mileage Plan loyalty program is one of the few that still rewards based on distance flown, not just ticket price. Passengers often comment on the comfort of the seating and ease of check-in. Alaska’s merger with Virgin America brought in newer planes and upgraded tech, keeping it competitive without compromising its approachability.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue prioritizes passenger comfort in ways that set it apart from other budget-friendly airlines. Every seat comes with extra legroom compared to the industry standard, and travelers enjoy free high-speed Wi-Fi, live TV, and in-seat power outlets on most aircraft. Snacks are complimentary, and drink service feels unhurried. JetBlue’s TrueBlue loyalty program is straightforward and useful even for casual travelers. While it primarily operates on the East Coast, JetBlue also connects major cities across the U.S. and Latin America. For those who value a quieter, less stressful cabin experience, JetBlue consistently balances affordability with comfort and small practical upgrades.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest stands by its customer-first philosophy with policies that are easy to understand and rarely come with extra fees. Two checked bags fly free, and there are no penalties for changing or canceling most flights. Seating is first-come, first-served, which some passengers appreciate for its simplicity. Flights are frequent on popular domestic routes, and the airline maintains a solid track record for punctuality. The Rapid Rewards program is straightforward, and flight credits rarely expire. Staff tend to have a casual, approachable attitude that feels less scripted. Southwest suits travelers who value budget transparency and don’t need unnecessary upgrades.
Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines is the top choice for reaching the islands with fewer hassles. It consistently leads in punctuality among U.S. carriers and makes the flight itself part of the trip. Even in economy class, passengers get complimentary meals and drinks, and flights often feature Hawaiian music or staff uniforms with local design motifs. While the route network is focused on Hawaii connections, it covers the U.S. West Coast, Asia, and Oceania with direct flights. Seats are reasonably comfortable, and service is calm and courteous. Hawaiian Airlines brings consistency and care to long-haul trips without resorting to corporate flashiness.
United Airlines
United is a major player with one of the largest global networks among U.S. carriers. It connects hundreds of domestic cities and reaches across continents, making it a go-to for international travelers. The airline has made steady progress in improving customer service, boarding processes, and in-flight tech, including seatback screens and upgraded cabins on many long-haul routes. MileagePlus, its loyalty program, is competitive, especially for those who fly often or hold elite status. With access to Star Alliance partners and lounges, United is practical for travelers juggling layovers or business schedules that stretch across time zones.
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American Airlines
As one of the "big three" U.S. carriers, American Airlines brings extensive route coverage across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe. Its AAdvantage program remains popular with frequent flyers, especially those who pass through Oneworld alliance hubs. On newer planes and longer routes, the airline has made investments in seat comfort, in-flight entertainment, and Wi-Fi connectivity. While service can vary by crew and location, American gives travelers more flight time options than many smaller airlines. Upgrades are accessible through loyalty status, and the app is reliable for managing check-ins, seat changes, and flight updates in real time.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air is built for no-frills, low-cost travel, mostly serving smaller cities and vacation spots not always reached by bigger carriers. The airline keeps ticket prices low by offering a base fare with optional add-ons—passengers pay extra for things like seat selection, carry-ons, and snacks. Flights typically run a few times a week, not daily, so schedules require planning. Despite its simplicity, Allegiant fills a gap in direct regional travel and can be a smart choice for short trips when minimizing cost matters more than extras. Its aircraft are basic but functional, and airport check-ins are usually quick.
Avelo Airlines
Avelo is one of the newer names in the airline industry, focusing on overlooked airports and underserved routes. Its goal is to reduce travel time by skipping major hubs and flying point-to-point. The airline’s fleet is modest, and its in-flight amenities are minimal, but base fares are often among the lowest available. Avelo’s strength lies in its simplicity—straightforward booking, basic service, and direct flights that bypass layovers. For travelers who don’t need extras and just want to get from one place to another efficiently, Avelo creates fewer obstacles than more complex carriers. It's built for convenience over luxury.
Sun Country Airlines
Sun Country, based in Minneapolis, operates a seasonal and leisure-focused schedule with routes to warm-weather destinations, coastal cities, and major vacation hubs. It has transitioned from a full-service model to an ultra-low-cost format, where most extras are a la carte. However, the airline still emphasizes customer service and maintains a reputation for friendly crews and clean cabins. Sun Country’s pricing can be highly competitive for travelers with flexible dates. Seats on newer aircraft have decent space compared to similar low-cost carriers. It's a strong option for those planning trips around school breaks, holidays, or regional getaways.
Fly Better with These Top Airlines
Choosing the right airline can significantly impact the overall travel experience, and these ten US airlines stand out for their exceptional service, reliability, and comfort. Whether it’s a business trip, family vacation, or weekend getaway, flying with one of these airlines ensures a smoother journey from check-in to landing. From spacious seating and attentive staff to dependable flight schedules, these carriers go above and beyond to provide a quality flying experience
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