We’ve all been there, searching the internet for the best travel deals. Sometimes, you find a cheaper flight with an airline you’re unsure about, while other times, you might pay more for a more reliable airline. It’s a tough choice.
The Points Guy has made it easier with their latest study, revealing the most reliable and affordable U.S. airlines for 2024. They scored each airline on a scale from 1 to 100, using data from the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), and overall customer experience. This helps travelers book their next trip with confidence.
### Most Reliable U.S. Airlines
Choosing the right airline is crucial for a timely and safe journey. Budget airlines have their issues, but some are improving significantly. The top three most reliable airlines are:
1. Allegiant
2. Delta
3. Alaska
You might be surprised to see Allegiant on this list. Despite its smaller route network, all their flights are nonstop, making them very reliable. Delta, a long-time favorite, offers great amenities and service, and has been named the top airline for six years in a row, scoring 65.74. Alaska is popular on the West Coast, known for its unique flight subscription and efficient service, expanding to new destinations like Ixtapa and Guatemala City.
### Most Affordable U.S. Airlines
Many people think traveling has to be expensive, but that’s not always true. The Points Guy points out that ultra-low-cost carriers often offer the cheapest fares. However, these budget airlines can come with inconvenient layovers.
The top three most affordable airlines are:
1. Southwest
2. United
3. American
Spirit and Frontier have improved their business models, now offering no change or cancellation fees, which might challenge Southwest’s “Bags Fly Free” slogan.
### Best Travel Experiences
For those who prioritize the best flight experiences, budget airlines often don’t make the cut. No one wants to feel cramped for hours. Considering lounges, cabin features, family treatment, and customer satisfaction, the top three airlines for the best travel experiences are:
1. Alaska
2. Delta
3. American
Alaska stands out with its plush lounges and high customer satisfaction. JetBlue, despite its great cabin features and free wifi, came in fifth. Delta and American finished ahead due to more flight options and luxurious lounges.
### Top 10 Airlines Overall for 2024
Based on total scores, here are the top 10 airlines:
1. Delta – 65.74
2. Alaska – 64.38
3. United – 60.90
4. American – 60.84
5. Southwest – 58.54
6. JetBlue – 49.38
7. Hawaiian – 48.91
8. Allegiant – 43.36
9. Spirit – 34.55
10. Frontier – 22.35
This ranking helps travelers make informed decisions about which airlines to choose for their journeys in 2024.