We’ve all heard of the airlines that are constantly ranked as the best in the United States, and we’ve all flown on at least one of them in our lives (especially if you’re under the age of 40). But which airline truly deserves the title of the best?
After weeks spent carefully analyzing dozens of factors, such as comfort, amenities, food quality, legroom, baggage handling, and more, we have finally settled on our 8 best airlines in USA. Check out this article to see which airlines rose to the top!
1. Southwest Airlines Co.
For the fourth year in a row, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) has been named the best airline in America by Condé Nast Traveler readers.
In addition to taking the top spot, Southwest was also awarded first place for best domestic airline and best low-cost airline. The only other airline that had more than one category win was Virgin America, which took home third place for the best international carrier.
2. United Continental Holdings Inc.
United Continental Holdings Inc. (UAL) is an American multinational airline holding company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. It was formed by the merger of United Airlines and Continental Airlines on May 3, 2010, and became the world’s largest airline.
The new company operates under the UAL Corporation. As of December 31, 2016, United Continental Holdings had 101,000 employees and operated 852 aircraft. The holding company owns two major airlines: United Airlines and Continental Airlines.
3. American Airlines Group Inc.
It was formed after the merger of US Airways and American Airlines on December 9, 2013. The newly merged airline began operating under the name of American Airlines. As of 2018, American Airlines Group is the world’s largest airline by fleet size and revenue, with nearly 6,700 aircraft and over $40 billion in annual revenue. The company operates more than 350 destinations in more than 50 countries.
4. Alaska Air Group, Inc.
1. Based in Seattle, Washington, Alaska Air Group is the holding company for Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air.
2. It has been in operation since 1932 and has a fleet of over 140 aircraft.
3. In 2016, it carried over 32 million passengers and had a revenue of $8.3 billion.
4. Alaska Airlines is known for its excellent customer service, as well as its modern fleet of planes and on-time performance.
5. Horizon Air is a regional airline that flies to over 40 cities within the United States.
6. It was founded in 1981 and was acquired by Alaska Air Group in 1986.
7. Horizon Air has a fleet of over 60 aircraft and carried over 8 million passengers in 2016.
5. Spirit Airlines, Inc.
In 2019, it was the ninth largest commercial airline in the United States by passenger count. Spirit has been named one of the world’s most punctual airlines and reached record customer satisfaction scores for three consecutive years. It offers low fares but does not offer advance seat assignments, boarding passes, or refunds.
Customers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item (like a purse) that fits under the seat. The main cabin seats are unreserved; passengers need to be at the gate 15 minutes before departure time. There are no frequent flyer miles, airport clubs, or lounges offered.
6. Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.
It is a publicly-traded company with 3,700 employees and over $2 billion in revenue. In 2016, Hawaiian was ranked one of the top best airlines in USA by Air Transport World magazine.
The company has a strong focus on customer service and was even named one of Forbes’ World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies in 2010.
7. Mesa Air Group, Inc.
Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Mesa Air Group, Inc. is an American regional airline. The airline operates as a contract carrier for American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Mesa also flies under the American Eagle brand name for American and as United Express for United.
In 2014, Mesa completed the largest fleet transition in regional airline history when it transitioned from turboprops to all-jet aircraft. The airline currently operates 133 aircraft with over 600 daily departures to 97 cities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica.
8. Allegiant Travel Company
You may not have heard of Allegiant Travel Company, but it’s worth checking out – especially if you’re looking for low-cost airfare.
Allegiant is an ultra-low-cost carrier, which means they offer some of the lowest fares around. They’re often cheaper than budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier.
But what sets Allegiant apart from other airlines is their focus on providing a great customer experience. They even go so far as to provide individualized attention with things like extra legroom, personal TVs at every seat, and complimentary beverages.
