These are the best airlines in 2026, according to The Points Guy Delta Air Lines has been ranked the top U.S. airline for the eighth consecutive year by The Points Guy’s 2026 survey, which weighted reliability, loyalty programs, customer experience, and cost. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines followed in the second and third positions, respectively. The survey also highlighted Frontier Airlines as the most affordable option and recommended using AI tools to find cheaper fares.

• Delta Air Lines ranked as the top U.S. airline in The Points Guy’s 2026 annual survey.
• United Airlines and Southwest Airlines secured the second and third spots.
• Cost was given extra weight (25%) due to rising jet fuel prices and the Iran war.
• Reliability (30%) was the most heavily weighted factor in the rankings.
• Delta’s consistent success is attributed to strong employee satisfaction stemming from profit sharing.
• United’s loyalty program was a strong point, but baggage handling issues impacted its ranking.
• Southwest maintained a high ranking despite ending its free checked bag policy.
• Frontier Airlines offered the most affordable ticket prices.
• AI tools and flexible booking on platforms like Google Flights are recommended for finding cheaper fares.