We love to score a good deal on a flight, but ticket prices aren’t the only thing that matters when choosing who to book that ticket with. Comfort and safety are important, too, and some airlines definitely do a better job at giving passengers a pleasant flying experience. Thanks to a new report, we know which ones do it best.
- WalletHub just released their list of the Best Airlines of 2026.
- They compared the nine largest U.S. airlines, along with two regional carriers, on 16 key factors.
- These include cancellation and delay rates, baggage mishaps, leg room, Wi-Fi availability, cost in relation to amenities, and more.
- Spirit Airlines is the big winner this year, winning for Best Airline Overall, as well as Most Affordable Airline and Most Reliable Airline.
The 2026 Best Airline Winners
- Best Airline Overall - Spirit Airlines
- Most Affordable Airline - Spirit Airlines
- Most Reliable Airline - Spirit Airlines
- Most Comfortable Airlines - It’s a four-way tie between JetBlue Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. They lead the pack for in-flight experience, offering free amenities like Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and complimentary snacks and beverages.
- Safest Airline - Frontier Airlines
- Most Pet-Friendly - SkyWest Airlines and Envoy Air (tie)
The Best Airline Rankings for 2026
- Spirit Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- SkyWest Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Hawaiian Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- United Airlines
- Envoy airlines⠀
Source: WalletHub
photo: GETTY