New Airline Rankings May Surprise You

April 15, 2025

A new WalletHub study ranking U.S. airlines for 2025 has revealed a few surprises.

With airfare prices climbing sharply—a 7.9 percent increase recorded in 2024 alone—the conversation around airline value has evolved dramatically in 2025. But are travelers across the U.S. only chasing the lowest ticket price? Maybe not.

WalletHub’s ranking draws on 14 operational and customer-focused metrics, including delays, cancellations, service quality, ticket affordability, onboard experience and animal safety. These insights reveal not only the most affordable airlines but also those delivering the best all-around flying experience in today’s complex travel landscape.

So, without further ado, the rankings:

Best Overall: Spirit Airlines

Once regarded purely as a budget alternative, Spirit Airlines has risen to claim the title of the best overall U.S. airline in 2025, according to WalletHub’s research. It’s a surprising but data-backed shift, made possible by the carrier’s improvements in areas beyond pricing—most notably, safety and operational reliability.

Key Strengths:

Highest total score across all measured airlines
Zero passenger fatalities recorded from 2019 to 2024
Modernized aircraft fleet focused on operational efficiency and safety

This leap signals that value-focused airlines can evolve beyond basic expectations, offering passengers both lower costs and peace of mind.

Best On-Time Performance: Delta

For travelers who prioritize dependability, Delta landed on top. The airline stands out for its strong performance in categories that affect day-of-travel experiences, helping passengers avoid common stressors.

Performance Indicators:

Industry-low rates of flight cancellations and significant delays
Effective baggage handling systems
Minimal instances of denied boarding

These metrics reinforce Delta’s reputation for consistency and operational discipline, making it a preferred choice for those unwilling to risk missed meetings or tight connections.

Most Comfortable: JetBlue and Hawaiian Airlines

In an era when comfort can feel like a luxury in economy class, JetBlue Airways and Hawaiian Airlines emerge as the most accommodating options for passengers seeking a more enjoyable flight.

Comfort Advantages:

Complimentary access to high-speed Wi-Fi onboard
Quality snacks and beverages at no additional cost
Above-average seat pitch, offering more legroom than most competitors

Other contenders earning strong marks for passenger comfort include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines—each delivering consistent amenities and slightly more personal space than the industry average.

Best Value: Spirit

While many know Spirit as the go-to for low-cost fares, this year’s analysis confirms that affordability now comes with a surprising degree of reliability and quality.

Affordability Snapshot:

Lowest average base ticket prices among all carriers reviewed
A la carte pricing model helps passengers pay only for what they need
Offers strong overall value when weighed against reliability and safety ratings

This combination places Spirit in a unique position: affordable, but no longer bare-bones.

Safest Airlines for Pet Travel Also Recognized

Airlines were also measured on how well they handle animal passengers—especially critical given that 10 pet fatalities were reported during flights in 2024. The study identified three airlines that maintained perfect safety records for animal travel.

Top Performers for Pet Safety:

SkyWest Airlines
United Airlines
Envoy Air

With zero recorded incidents involving animals, these carriers offer reassurance to pet parents that their furry companions will arrive safely.

WalletHub’s new data-driven report represents a shift away from simple customer reviews or cost-only evaluations, offering a much broader and more accurate portrayal of each airline’s strengths and weaknesses.