The top US airlines in 2025 have been ranked, and the results are in! According to AirHelp’s latest global report, American Airlines leads the pack among US carriers, followed by United and Delta. But with US airlines slipping in global rankings, what does this mean for travelers? The report, based on on-time performance, customer opinion, and claim-processing efficiency, reveals which airlines are delivering the best—and worst—experiences. Whether you prioritize punctuality, customer service, or hassle-free compensation, this ranking will help you choose your next flight wisely.
How the Rankings Were Determined
AirHelp’s report evaluated 117 airlines globally, scoring each on three criteria:
- On-Time Performance: How often flights depart and arrive as scheduled.
- Customer Opinion: Traveler satisfaction surveys from over 60 countries.
- Claim-Processing Efficiency: How well airlines handle compensation for delays and cancellations.
The Top 6 US Airlines in 2025
| Rank | Airline | Global Rank | AirHelp Score (10) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | American Airlines | 11 | 7.64 |
| 2 | United Airlines | 13 | 7.54 |
| 3 | Delta Air Lines | 15 | 7.46 |
| 4 | Frontier Airlines | 36 | 7.07 |
| 5 | Hawaiian Airlines | 50 | 6.73 |
| 6 | Southwest Airlines | 52 | 6.68 |
Why American Airlines Took the Top Spot
American Airlines ranked highest among US carriers due to its strong performance in claim processing, despite United’s better on-time record. AirHelp CEO Tomasz Pawliszyn noted that while United had a higher on-time score, American’s efficiency in handling compensation claims gave it the edge.
US Airlines Slip in Global Rankings
All top US airlines dropped in global rankings compared to 2024. American fell seven spots, while United and Delta also saw declines. This shift reflects broader industry challenges, including increased delays and customer dissatisfaction.
What This Means for Travelers
- On-Time Performance: United leads in punctuality, but all US airlines face challenges with delays.
- Customer Satisfaction: Delta and American are neck-and-neck, but Frontier and Southwest lag behind.
- Compensation Claims: American’s efficiency in processing claims sets it apart, offering travelers better recourse for disruptions.
How to Use This Ranking for Your Next Flight
- Prioritize Punctuality? United may be your best bet.
- Value Customer Service? Delta and American are strong choices.
- Need Reliable Compensation? American’s claim-processing efficiency makes it a standout.
CONCLUSION
The top US airlines in 2025 ranking reveals a shifting landscape, with American Airlines leading the pack but all carriers facing challenges. As travelers, understanding these rankings helps us make informed choices—whether we value on-time performance, customer service, or efficient compensation. With US airlines slipping globally, the pressure is on for carriers to improve. For now, American, United, and Delta remain the top picks, but the race for the best travel experience is far from over.
