Between the 3 major American airlines (United, Delta, American), which one is your favorite and which one your least favorite?
Posted by BustANutInThisThread@reddit | AskAnAmerican | View on Reddit | 589 comments
Also, what are the reasons for your answers? I see a lot of controversies regarding those airlines. Every now and then there’s something going on either about their customer service or quality of aircrafts. How would you rank those then?
Ultimate_Driving@reddit
I hate all of them. It doesn't matter which airline you're attempting to fly on when the nearest airport is that hellscape known as Denver International Airport.
WesternCowgirl27@reddit
I honestly wonder when they’ll actually be done with renovations to the main terminal and concourses. I also wonder if they’ll update the A-Hole (A ‘gates’ that are down the stairs on the concourse).
Ultimate_Driving@reddit
They never will be. They have projects planned through the 2040's, and when those are finished, they'll have new ones to start working on because the capacity will be insufficient again.
The crazy thing is that the original 1988 master plan, with all three existing concourses expanded to their full width, two additional concourses, and twice as many runways, was expected to have an ultimate maximum capacity for 50 million passengers annually. In 2024, DIA served over 80 million passengers, with only the three existing dumpy concourses, and broken trains to get people to the concourses. They're doing something right, I guess. It's still a dumpy hellscape though.
WesternCowgirl27@reddit
Lol it’ll be like I-70, never stop working on yourself.
The trains have turned into a living nightmare. My husband is so glad that he flies out of Concourse A (pilot), and can just take the bridge over (construction pending of course).
Ultimate_Driving@reddit
I've read that there are plans to add bridges to Concourses B and C. I'd much rather walk the two miles across three bridges to Concourse C, if it meant I didn't have to ride on those god-forsaken trains.
WesternCowgirl27@reddit
There definitely should be bridges added between the two. I’m surprised they didn’t add those when the airport was originally constructed.
Someoneinnowherenow@reddit
It mostly depends on where you live. I live near San Francisco so I fly mostly United because they have most of the flights and have typical prices usually as good or better than the other majors
If you live near Dallas you would probably use American and if near Atlanta it's all Delta.
Eventually I flew over 1m miles on United airlines I gave lifetime gold status which can save a lot on checked bags.
Over the years, I've seen surveys showing all the majors in top or on the bottom. Seasonal I guess...
Crankenberry@reddit
They all suck. Back in the day when we had Continental, Northwest, and TWA in addition to the three we have now, United was the leader in fuckery: they were always the first to screw the customers and the travel agents. They were the first to cut commissions and they were always the first to raise fares and introduce new kooky rules. They were a monopoly in Denver when the new airport opened in the 90s and they weren't shy about showing it in their fares.
To this day they continue to operate under a shit business model that screws customers and fucks their employees despite unions.
Source: I was a travel agent from 1996 to 2001.
ucjj2011@reddit
American is BY FAR my least favorite. Almost every bad flying experience I or my wife has had has been on American.
she was flying home by herself from California, and there were storms in Texas. They ended up diverting her from Dallas to another airport. Their customer service was terrible at getting anything done to reroute her. She was supposed to get to the airport 25 minutes from our house around 8:00 p.m., And I ended up having to book her a flight that placed her at an airport 100 mi from our house and pick her up at 1:00 a.m. I know the original problem was weather related, which is out of their control, but they wouldn't have this problem if they weren't flying in and out of Dallas, and their response to it was horrible. This was many years before the pandemic.
We had a flight out of Miami leaving from a cruise. We got to the airport around 10:00 a.m. Saturday for a 3:30 p.m. flight because we had nothing else to do. They canceled our flight about 2 hours before it was supposed to take off, and offered to reschedule us for 3:30 p.m. On Monday, 2 Days later. Instead I booked us tickets on a United flight that was leaving from Fort Lauderdale, which is 30 minutes from the Miami airport. (This was coming out of the pandemic, when American had laid off tons of workers and then didn't bring many of them back so they were constantly understaffed.)
Another time I was in Vegas and she was flying out to meet me. Her flight got delayed by about 4 hours.
American is also one of the worst perpetrators of advertising a low rate on a flight, and then when you go to book it, they tell you you have to spend $50+ extra if you want an aisle or window seat.
I've easily had more bad experiences flying on American than any other airlines combined.
Redneck-ginger@reddit
Saying "they wouldnt have had this problem if they werent flying into Dallas" is wild to me. Is nobody supposed to fly in and out of dallas ever?
ucjj2011@reddit
Dallas is one of American's main hubs. If she had been going through Chicago, SLC, Miami, Atlanta, Washington, etc etc, no issue.
Alert-Potato@reddit
You don't have to choose to book a layover in Dallas. There are lots of other layovers to choose from to get across the country.
Redneck-ginger@reddit
Then why did you book the flight through Dallas and not one of the other airports?
You how can be aggravated about flight delays for weather when you A) chose that flight and B) know the airline has no control over the weather.
Alert-Potato@reddit
I always book a window, I only fly American, and I've never paid or even seen a seat be $50. They're always $15-35, at least on the flights I end up on.
rachelcrustacean@reddit
Flying out of Miami they overbooked our flight by SEVENTEEN people. I don’t even understand how that’s legal
LukasJackson67@reddit
Ever delay or fucked up incident I have ever had has been on American
GuttaBrain@reddit
Same for me. And they never kept us updated. I had ONE delay on Delta and they kept us posted the entire time.
Big__If_True@reddit
I’m curious, where did they divert her to instead of Dallas?
ucjj2011@reddit
I believe it was Lubbock. It was around 10 years ago.
Alert-Potato@reddit
I'm going to be an outlier I guess. I only fly American. I can choose my seat when I book my flight, regardless of what class I book. That is very important to me, as I have a neurological disorder and need to sit in a left window seat to eliminate the risk of having someone constantly bumping against my left side for several hours. I've never had any problems.
Any delays I have experienced have been unavoidable due to weather. The first time I ever flew, they held a connecting flight for me. About 10% of the time I'm upgraded to first class at no cost. Another 10% of the time, I upgrade to first class myself at check-in because it's stupid cheap. Last time I flew, it was under $50 to upgrade to first class, which was less than it would have cost to check my second bag which I could check for free with first class.
They've also never given my grief about my disability and need to be in the cripples boarding group, as it takes me about three times as long as other people to walk the plank due to the uneven, sloped surface.
Once my first flight was delayed enough that I got to the next gate after the doors had closed. I went to customer service, they were friendly even though they were dealing with a lot of delay issues. They treated me respectfully, even though they probably thought I was a moron. I had been in line so long, that I hadn't known they deboarded the plane I was supposed to be on due to weather delays. Bonus, I ran into a friend that I'd never met in person before that was getting on the same flight, and we got to sit on the floor and have a snack together.
I've always been happy with American. It's never occurred to me to try another airline, so I can't have opinions on them as I've not tried them. And I'm unlikely to unless something drastically changes with American.
tmanarl@reddit
Flew Delta a lot as a kid; American most as a young adult. Now it’s mostly Southwest. Don’t think I’ve ever flown United. I still have no real preference over any; just so long as they get me there alive.
Ceorl_Lounge@reddit
Delta because I live near a great hub (DTW) and non-stop flights are REALLY nice.
BustANutInThisThread@reddit (OP)
I went to college in Michigan and I always flew Delta straight from my city in South America to Detroit. Unfortunately there aren’t direct flights anymore so I had to fly to O’Hare and then take an Amtrak to Kzoo. Good times, but even better when I flew Delta.
valuesandnorms@reddit
So you went to Western?
BustANutInThisThread@reddit (OP)
Yes I did! Go Broncos!
GroupNo2345@reddit
That Amtrak stop in Kalamazoo was always wild!
BustANutInThisThread@reddit (OP)
In what way? Lol
GroupNo2345@reddit
Random stabbings; the sketchy drug dealers. The McDonalds across the street was fun too.
IDigRollinRockBeer@reddit
Dallas Torte Worth?
ExtremePotatoFanatic@reddit
Yep! I almost always fly Delta because the DTW hub is so convenient.
Ceorl_Lounge@reddit
And it's a nice airport. Security is (relatively) speedy, traffic is OK, the size is manageable. After spending time at IAD, LAX, and ORD in the last couple years I REALLY appreciate that.
Throwawaydontgoaway8@reddit
Huh that’s why we go to Flint. Cheaper flights usually too
Ceorl_Lounge@reddit
I've considered that with Toledo too. I'm just at a point where I'll take convenience and reduced travel time over a lot of other considerations. Transiting through other major airports puts it in perspective too.
Throwawaydontgoaway8@reddit
From where I am Bishops 10-15 min less drive
Lothar_Ecklord@reddit
Same! New York is a rare triple-hub with Delta using LGA, JFK, and EWR as hubs. I can get flights basically anywhere at practically any time.
Spare_Hornet@reddit
Love DTW!
killeverydog@reddit
Delta best
corn_ragingfeminist@reddit
Delta and United are the same company. Delta is the nicer version. I like both. I absolutely despise American.
Turdle_Vic@reddit
Delta for sure. I refuse to fly American still after their incident (thought their service is still quite nice, much to my chagrin), and American is very hit or miss. Sometimes I get nice service and sometimes it’s ass from start to finish. Overall tho, whichever one is cheaper. I don’t find a HUGE difference between their services. They get me from point A to point B and point B to point C just fine. Flying economy is basically the same anywhere you go, in my experience
MainelyKahnt@reddit
Delta is my favorite because it's only them and American that services my local airport. If I drive to the nearest big airport (4 hrs) I'd still say delta edges out united based on nicer cabins but they're the same in terms of reliability. I've never had a good experience with American. But that's because everything that services my airport goes through Newark which is the single worst airport I've ever had the displeasure of using. Always delayed in deplaning. Once I had what was supposed to be a 2hr layover in Newark turn into a mad dash from one end of the airport to the other to catch my connection because we were sat on the tarmac waiting for a gate to open up for 2hours.
Nuttonbutton@reddit
Imagine being able to fly often enough to have a favorite airline. I'm going on my first plane ride ever in July hopefully. I'll be 32
Sea_Squirrel1987@reddit
It's all about priorities really. I fly 8-10 times per year but I don't have cool toys or fancy things. My wife and I prefer to spend money on experiences not stuff. Every situation is different though. I hope you enjoy your first flight and all those that follow!
Nuttonbutton@reddit
I really want you to understand that your comment is really really tone deaf. For most of my teen years, my family of 4 lived in about 1,100 a month and food stamps and I didn't really get out of poverty until maybe 4 years ago. "Priorities" like surviving 🙄
DependentSun2683@reddit
I dont think they were being rude at all. Some people buy 200 dollar tennis shoes and other people take 200 dollar flights. To each their own.
Nuttonbutton@reddit
The thing is neither of those things are an option for a lot of people. A LOT of people. And you're lucky if you get one pair of brand new shoes a year. You're just as tone deaf if you're comparing buying expensive shoes to just being able to live with a roof over your head. tO eAcH tHeIr OwN
LeResist@reddit
Flights are not nearly as expensive as you think. You can get flights for less than $100
moonwalkinginlowes@reddit
Depends on where you live…I’ve never been able to get a flight that cheap anywhere
LeResist@reddit
Obviously that's how flight ticket prices work lol. It always depends on where you are going to and from
Nuttonbutton@reddit
That's great but there's other costs attached such as having time off, what I'm going to do when I fly to wherever I go. Hotel? I've never been in a position to have money and time before.
someolive2@reddit
this seems to be common for the people of wisconsin.
BowtiedGypsy@reddit
That’s awesome, please pay a little extra for a window seat. You won’t regret it.
Cheezer7406@reddit
Except you are crammed in. But other than that window is cool.. for about 10 minutes anyway. Sorry.. Debbie downer here i guess tonight lol
DrunkPanda77@reddit
In human history we are among the lucky few who have the privilege of looking out at the world from 30,000 feet. For your 10th flight or even your 2nd yes go for max comfort. For your first, enjoy the view
acertaingestault@reddit
I find comfort in not being jostled by anyone else in my row, getting to control the light coming from the window, and getting to lean against the wall to sleep. Window seat 4eva
moonwalkinginlowes@reddit
Yes the wall sleep is essential
Nuttonbutton@reddit
I'm flying from either Milwaukee or Chicago to England. I'm not sure what to pick tbh
WulfTheSaxon@reddit
If it was over land I’d say window, no question.
You might want to check out the seat maps at SeatGuru.
Dragonflies3@reddit
It is cold and loud by the window at crossing the Atlantic altitude. Bring noise canceling headphones and something warm.
BowtiedGypsy@reddit
Go with the window. Book an exit row seat for some extra leg room if your worried about that. If you choose the window you might walk away saying your booking aisle next time, but you won’t regret it after watching take off and landing and seeing the sky up there.
Cheezer7406@reddit
Aisle. You can stretch your legs and use the restroom without saying "excuse me" every time
FireIre@reddit
First flight ever though?? It has to be a window
BowtiedGypsy@reddit
My guess is you fly often. I also do, and prefer an aisle seat since I’m a bit tall too.
I took my girl on her first plane ride when we were younger and I think she stared out the plane window literally the entire 4 hour flight.
Cheezer7406@reddit
Often enough to know lol. The larger planes aren't as bad. Unless it's an overseas flight. Then aisle all the way. Thank goodness for the flight attendants making sure the blinds are down lol
KFelts910@reddit
The worst overseas flight I had was British Airways by the window. It was so hot and so crammed, despite a Xanax and a half (which I don’t normally take) and being a red eye, I couldn’t sleep. My husband can normally sleep literally anywhere. I kid you not, the man could just go to sleep on concrete or blacktop. And he couldn’t sleep. I was so exhausted by the time we got on our connecting flight. That was Aer Lingus, and it was far more comfortable. I fell right to sleep.
Caribbean Air was janky.
BowtiedGypsy@reddit
I do agree, I always go for the extra leg room + aisle personally.
jurassicbond@reddit
It's primarily because of work for me. I fly probably 6-10 times a year for business trips, but like once every 2-3 years for myself.
einsteinGO@reddit
Hey! I think that’s pretty exciting 🙌🏽
I agree, window seat.
Bring a sandwich and fruit to the airport to save money!
How long is your flight gonna be?
Nuttonbutton@reddit
I don't know yet. I'm waiting for my passport because it's going to be international. I'm not booking anything until I have that passport in my hand.
AZymph@reddit
Adding to this: highly recommend an EMPTY water bottle. Get through the TSA with it empty and fill it up inside security (most airports have a bottle refill station water fountain, or usually coffee places inside are happy to fill it for a small tip) Airplanes are very dry, and keeping hydrated helps with jet lag.
I also recommend some chewing gum to help with the pressure shift at takeoff/landing, you'll feel it in your ears and moving your jaw helps.
I also really appreciate the TSA's "Can I Bring This" section online, great tool for figuring out what goes in your carry on bag vs what goes in checked luggage.
crazycatladybitt@reddit
I don’t know if they still do it, but when I flew delta international they provided like two meals and three snacks and unlimited beer and wine included in the ticket. Definitely check that when you book
Js987@reddit
Note about bringing food on the plane…if your flight is international, make sure you don’t accidentally bring said food through customs. Eat it before you land. Fruit and meat are two easy ways to get in trouble if you forget to declare them, and they’ll often just get seized if declared.
hellojuly@reddit
Why haven’t you flown? Traveling for work, a favorite airline is a must. Fly with them consistently to collect mileage points and gain status for free upgrades.
Nuttonbutton@reddit
Growing up in poverty. Being fairly poor in both time and money until somewhat recently. This first plane ride is also my first vacation.
hellojuly@reddit
Best of luck to you! I hope many more enjoyable vacations!
burnsbabe@reddit
Not everyone has a fancy white collar job.
hellojuly@reddit
I was sharing a perspective I thought was interesting when I first heard it. Not to be a snob. Don’t need to be fancy white collar to travel for work.
mochalatte828@reddit
To be fair, prices haven’t always been this bad.
IHaveALittleNeck@reddit
No, they used to be higher.
ElysianRepublic@reddit
Delta- generally the best, smoothest experience, highest service standards.
United- almost as good as Delta service wise (maybe better on domestic flights), but annoying with fees and a very restrictive basic economy product.
American- A full service carrier but doesn’t always feel like it. Limited menu on medium haul flights, few planes with in flight entertainment, generally the lowest standard of service of the 3.
LoriReneeFye@reddit
None. They all suck, and I'd go out of my way to fly on just about any other airline's planes.
I did that for a lot of years, but they all got more greedy than ever and changed the seats to something that feels like you're sitting on concrete for hours. Some of those concrete seats don't even recline.
Now?
I won't fly a U.S.-based airline ever again. I'd like to go to Europe one more time, but I swear I'll take a Greyhound bus from Ohio to NYC and then board KLM, Lufthansa, Aer Lingus, or similar, but I'm not flying USA anything again.
rjbonita79@reddit
I have found that whoever has the biggest hub at a particular airport has the best service. Makes sense they can be the most flexible, makes them the most money so the get the best managers and personnel.
elqueco14@reddit
United seems to have the best deals for the routes I normally take, so that one
bayern_16@reddit
United because I live in Chicago. Then American as my second as my firm has a corporate account
cluelessinlove753@reddit
Delta is a slightly better experience. UA has better partners for me (LH/SAS, AC, ANA).
AA has a fortress hub where I live so that’s what I take most. Alaska and BA redemption options make that worthwhile.
Where are you based? Where do you travel? Cost and especially schedule usually outweigh experience for most of us.
JiminPA67@reddit
Southwest is the only airline that I have flown in the last 7 years.
YoungKeys@reddit
Delta > United > American is how I would rank them. Alaska and Southwest are better though imo
NaiveChoiceMaker@reddit
Southwest is about to be indistinguishable from the Big 3.
pinniped90@reddit
Southwest is disintegrating. I wonder if it'll exist as its own thing in two years. Hostile Investors are going to pick it apart.
Tacoshortage@reddit
I'm lamenting the changes, but I don't know why they are doing them. Did something happen that caused the system-wide alterations? Why are investors picking it apart?
tonyrocks922@reddit
It has been making less profits than other airlines.
https://www.marketwatch.com/story/southwest-agrees-activist-investor-elliott-can-own-up-to-19-9-stake-until-2026-df9400e7
Tacoshortage@reddit
This is painful and I seriously doubt the ability of a hedge fund to make operations decisions about an airline. While they may know $$ and numbers, they do not know customer satisfaction.
tonyrocks922@reddit
They are the largest shareholder now. In their view SW is leaving money on the table by not charging for luggage or seat assignments. They are probably also hoping that some of the lost loyal fans will be made up with an increase in business travelers, who typically avoid SW because of the lack of seat assignments.
Tacoshortage@reddit
I hate to see them go, but those were the only reason I ever flew with them. I'm surprised their paltry 14% voting bloc was enough to overcome the other 86% of shareholders who are clearly happy with the status quo or they would have sold by now.
rokynrobs@reddit
They forced new board members in. It's no longer just shares they hold.
Tacoshortage@reddit
I read that. Again, I'm shocked 14% allowed them to do that.
rokynrobs@reddit
Unfortunately, I have had a crash course in activist investment companies. They fight dirty. They tried to force Bob Jordan out and he dug his heels in. Who knows what went on behind closed doors for BJ to stick around and Elliott to gain board seats.
Uffda01@reddit
Its the investors that are forcing them to now charge for bags; and are dicking with their ticketing process to make them more like the other airlines.
pinniped90@reddit
I'm not sure what their end game is. I know with airlines, sometimes the equipment and landing slots are worth more than the value based on the stock price. Maybe they want to sell it all to JetBlue or something?
They seem dead set on pushing away the passengers as fast as possible.
IDigRollinRockBeer@reddit
The United States won’t exist as its own thing in two years
Nawnp@reddit
It won't be because it doesn't fly half as many places. If anything these budget cuts means the airline is going to shrink to a regional airline again.
steelmelt33@reddit
It just wont have first class.
MarkNutt25@reddit
Give it a few months.
iMakeUrGrannyCheat69@reddit
I flew a week ago on southwest and they didn't have first class. You bought the order of boarding onto the plane. No reserved setting, first come first serve. They did give a snack and drink though unlike my trip with delta. I did have a 2 hour delay due to a mechanical issue with southwest but that can happen anywhere
BusterBluth13@reddit
They've announced a lot of upcoming changes that will basically make it like all the other airlines.
Wetald@reddit
Yeah like no more two bags fly free.
iMakeUrGrannyCheat69@reddit
Fucking capitalism ☹️😭
annaoze94@reddit
Which sucks because it was nice to have something that was in between the big three that wasn't a discount airline. Southwest is so successful because of the way they were not the way they are becoming
Temporary-Detail-400@reddit
I thought SW started as a discount airline, but I agree it’s mid tier now. Another reason I love southwest is that their boarding process is actually quicker. I’ve almost missed connections bc the delta boarding process took so damn long with all tiers and levels, like just get on the damn plane! So I at least hope they keep open seating….
tigrilaur@reddit
Isn’t Alaskan part of American?
dumpitdog@reddit
Walking > American
SeeYouOn16@reddit
I'm not saying you're wrong, but this is literally my complete opposite list. I avoid Delta, and I can't stand Southwest. I try to fly American as much as possible as it's the only airline I've flown that hasn't ruined my day in one way or another at some point.
dell828@reddit
Delta, because they did a great job during Covid, with trying to separate people on board.
I would fly any of them though.
PaleDreamer_1969@reddit
I fly United and their app is amazing. I live near their hub in Denver and have non-stop flights to nearly anywhere around the world. I’ve been enjoying them a lot now, and stopped flying them for 10 years when they were so bad in the 2010s. Their United Club is great and about $200 less than Delta’s with the same service. The United Clubs are virtually everywhere, while Delta’s in only a few select markets. I flew Delta for 10 years, and was treated like trash most of the time, EXCEPT when I made Platinum status, and that was only once. They would acknowledge me, and that was it. It took a lot of flying with them to get that level. I rarely had any upgrades with them. And the scrum to make it onto the plane! And don’t get me talking about the SLC walk. I would land at B25, and my connecting flight would be at A38 and I would have 30 mins or less to make it. There is no train between the concourses and it’s a hike with 80lbs of backpack and other luggage. I do find the SLC to be beautiful, yes. It’s an amazing airport to fly into and out of, especially if you fly Delta. The food is pretty decent too. Though mobile service is not great
CorrectBad2427@reddit
Delta, 1. Salt Lake City is a delta hub 2. American always has delays or isssues 3. United is decent ig
WhompTrucker@reddit
Southwest
FoxyLady52@reddit
My favorite airline is going to where I need to go at the time I want to leave and charges a reasonable price, gives me an assigned window seat at no extra cost, and does not charge for checked luggage. I don’t think a favorite is possible anymore.
DependentSun2683@reddit
Delta...american airlines delayed on 3 out of 4 flights ive taken with them, Delta maybe 1 in 20....im kind of biased though as O live near atlanta
Forward_Ad4727@reddit
Just remember guys (https://youtu.be/5YGc4zOqozo?si=f85h25_zCbK3TEsA) I don’t have a race in this fight because I always fly Spirit.
Meilingcrusader@reddit
Of those three, delta is probably the best and united the worst. Though, jetblue and southwest are probably the best to fly on in terms of quality in domestic travel. Overseas, the best is totally Emirates, and the worst is Air Asia X in my experience
MPLS_Poppy@reddit
Delta is the shit and if you say anything else you’re wrong. Then united, and American. American shouldn’t be a national airline
GroupNo2345@reddit
United all day. Was a continental loyalist before that. The others seem more of a crap shoot to me..
marcopoloman@reddit
Never got the preference for airlines. They are all the same. I pick the cheapest, fastest and most convenient times. That's it.
sociablezealot@reddit
I will take 35+ flights this year. The ability to have preferred seating and upgrades, etc… is nice when sticking to a single airline. If you don’t fly much the only benefit would be accumulation of miles, but if you’re paying more for it in the end it makes no sense, agree.
marcopoloman@reddit
I fly around the world about 5 times a year. Makes no difference to me. Easy to sign up for all the major carriers programs and take the pittance they offer.
MarkNutt25@reddit
Unless you're flying at least like 5-6 times per year. Then it probably makes sense to stick with one airline, and work on building up status with them, as well as getting a credit card that gives perks for that airline.
judgingA-holes@reddit
Came her to say something similar. I've never actually flown any of these because they are never the cheapest option lol.
AZJHawk@reddit
I hear you. I always go for a combination of price and travel time. That’s why I end up flying Southwest more than any other carrier even though I hate it.
I have clear preferences, but those don’t trump cost or efficiency. I’m not going to choose Delta if it means I’m paying significantly more and/or have to spend three extra hours connecting through Atlanta.
FallsOffCliffs12@reddit
United sucks. I broke my foot in Italy, went to the airport in a cast up to my knee, asked them to have a wheelchair ready for the connection. The plane was late. When we landed the flight attendants called ahead, said i was on the way. The airport porter ran my wheelchair through 8customs, through the airport, on the train to the domestic terminal, through security, and to the gate with 15 mins to spare and the only flight in the history of United that ever closed it's doors early was my connecting flight. Despite the fact they knew I was in a wheelchair, they been advised I was coming, they still closed the doors in my face, and the gate agent threatened to call security on my husband when he protested.
The next flight was in eight hours and in true United form, was late.
Did I mention the airport was renovating the United terminal and there was no A\C (in July) they'd taken seats out so people were jammed up, sitting on the floor everywhere?
I'm still salty about that and make it a point to not flight United if there is any other choice.
RockStar5132@reddit
I will absolutely never fly American Airlines ever again if I can help it. The airline crews were fine but the front desk and gate agents I’ve had to work with when I flew with them were the absolute worst, most rude people I’ve ever had the displeasure to work with
PacificCastaway@reddit
United or Delta. I have a beef with American.
This_Sheepherder_332@reddit
Delta first. Then United. Then Alaska. I’m a west coaster, so I rarely have the need to fly on American Airlines.
Imaginary_Roof_5286@reddit
We like Delta. I personally rate United the lowest.
basicallythisisnew@reddit
Delta - most comfortable, free wifi, nicest flight attendants
United is my least favorite. They are such sticklers about the bag thing, I get it, but I almost got tackled walking onto the jet bridge with a fanny pack on.
minicpst@reddit
Delta is my favorite.
United has left me and my kids out on the street, dicked us over, refused to even entertain helping, and that’s just with what I’ve experienced.
American has come way down. I used to fly them a lot 25 years ago, but they’re a cheap shell of what they were. Still, they don’t actively try to make my life hell like United, so I’d fly them over United.
When I’m searching for flights, I turn off the ability to search United. I stopped flying them in 2014 other than when someone bought me a ticket I had no say in. And they dicked me over on that flight.
Delta is generally quite lovely.
JerryCat11@reddit
Surprised anyone said delta after all the problems they’ve been having
Ok_Orchid1004@reddit
I am a frequent flyer and they all suck equally but in different ways. Generally americans become “frequent fliers” of the airline who’s hub is closest to them because that airline gets them more places with less hassle. For example I lived in Dallas TX at one point so I only flew American. No matter where I was going, it was always on American. I achieved Executive Platinum and was frequently upgraded to F/C. So why would I ever fly Delta or United out of DFW?
Beezer_MB@reddit
My favorite is whichever one is the cheapest and has the best connecting flight times for that trip.
the_hell_you_say_2@reddit
Delta, followed closely by United, with American in a distant 3rd
Matchboxx@reddit
Favorite: Delta. They are usually on-time and have relatively decent customer service.
Least favorite: American. They are usually late and have trash customer service, it’s systemic all the way down to the front line employees. Through M&As the original American lost its airline but the name was repurposed for America West and later US Airways, both of whom were the Spirits of their day, so the American today is coasting on reputation while actually being a crappy budget airline in secret.
Lets_G0_Pens@reddit
One time in American gate agent was yelling in the middle of a crowded airport, trying to get another customer to walk a fully legally blind customer to his changed gate at PHL after a day full of delays because of bad weather. So the airport was absolutely wild. I volunteered. I’m a nurse and my dad is disabled so I felt comfortable helping him navigating through the very busy airport. Once we get to the gate she tells us to go to- in a completely different terminal across the airport- the gate agent at that airline tells us that American does this all the time and they meant to send you to the customer service desk right next to their gate. This customer service line is long as fuck, and what I learned is that the flight the man was rescheduled on was not cancelled and had just been reassigned from literally the gate right across from where we were standing with the yelling lady. I knew it had already been reassigned when she initially asked me to take him because it was the same flight I was trying to get on which is why I was in that area in the first place. The line we were waiting on was to reschedule canceled flights. The weather has been terrible that day so a ton of flights were getting canceled.
I was so pissed. Not only for me, but mostly for this man who I now did not have time to walk back to the correct gate. I had to go catch my own flight and fight my own customer service battles. And not five minutes before at the original interaction while I was waiting in line to try and get on the American flight, a different gate agent had walked this mom and her 17-year-old son to a different gate. Nothing was wrong with either of these people, and the mom had cut all of us in line freaking out, saying that her issue was the priority because she was about to miss her flight. All flights at the entire airport were grounded because of the weather. It was like 6 PM and a flight had not taken off since 1 PM. Nobody was missing their flight. Because no flights were taking off. They totally cater to this woman and then left this blind man (also a man of color) to completely fend for himself. I never had seen such terrible customer service I was very offended as an American frequent flyer and status holder. I wrote to their customer service and they gave me airline miles but I was so pissed because I genuinely think the woman should’ve gotten fired for the way she handled it. It was such blatant disrespect towards someone with a disability.
Superb-Team-7984@reddit
I totally believe this. The PHL employees are another level of awful.
JRussell_dog@reddit
Yeah PHL is terrible, and most of our flights are American - double whammy. Worst customer service possible. Our airport is an embarrassment.
Local_Hope_6233@reddit
Truth
Fartosaurus_Rex@reddit
The only times I've had bags go missing, it was American. And the last time it was three bags, luggage for 4 people!
They eventually found them after a week, and they decided to inform me by calling at midnight. Woke to my phone ringing, groggily answered "hello?" and after a moment of silence it went something like this:
AA: (low voice) Is this fartosaurus_rex? Me: Who is asking? AA: (low voice) Is this fartosaurus_rex? Me: What is this about? AA: (louder and clearly annoyed now) I'm asking if this is fartosaurus_Rex? Me: ...Yes... AA: Hi I'm with American Airlines and we have your bags.
A brief discussion later, and I was told (not given any choice) to expect my bags to be dropped off between 2:30 and 3:30... that same night.
So after being awakened at midnight I had to then wake up for the guy dropping the bags. An oh, you bet your ass he was endlessly bitching about having to drive all the way out to my house in the middle of the night, like it was my fault or something.
cluttered-thoughts3@reddit
I’ve also only had bags lost through American and I never received them. I was informed that it might have been stolen because I had my offices travel projector and suit in there
SeriousCow1999@reddit
The driver who finally brought my luggage was actually very pleasant. But the agents at American--the level of rudeness and callousness to EVERYONE was something I'd never seen before.
Miserable_Smoke@reddit
The answer to the guy complaining about dropping off the bags, is "fuck you", and slamming the door. Im usually very nice to service people, but if you want to bitch, you do it to.your boss, not the person your company already fucked over.
LA_Nail_Clippers@reddit
I had a similar experience with Hawaiian airlines. Guy was bitching about having to drive ~2 hours on Maui to bring us our lost bags (we were visiting a friend in Hana the day they found the bags and it's a long and windy drive).
"Yeah bro, that's almost as inconvenient as not having your bags for 2 days."
barbelsandpugs@reddit
Sorry but that’s hilariously terrible. OMG! 🤣🤣😮 WTAF.
JustAGuyOnTheJohn@reddit
Delta from my experience has the best in flight entertainment too. Love having that screen on the seat and normally have pretty good film selection
Rbkelley1@reddit
This is the answer
maximus_the_turtle@reddit
This guy flies.
Matchboxx@reddit
Every week, unfortunately.
DargyBear@reddit
The last time I flew American was from SFO to Cancun and back. On the return flight I just kept kicking myself that I hadn’t hit up one of the pharmacias that were said to have everything. Doping myself up and sleeping the whole way would’ve been miles better than hovering over my seat for seven hours because I was too tall to actually fit.
Matchboxx@reddit
I feel like the hard products between airlines are comparable. American’s problems to me are service and operational.
Eric848448@reddit
Of those, probably Delta. But Alaska is better than any of those three.
OfficeChair70@reddit
I came here to say literally exactly that. Idk why I’d fly either of the other two big three because I can’t really get anywhere on them. Alaska is better for PHX-SEA/PDX/FAI/JNUetc. And if I’m going anywhere else I’d just take SW.
nmacInCT@reddit
When i lived in PDX, i really liked Alaska too but flew Delta more often to get to the east Coast since i could get non stop.
eldritch-charms@reddit
Alaska is always late coming into Seattle, though. You know how many times I've had to run to the next gate while also changing terminals? Way too many. I do like their food the best though lol.
concrete_isnt_cement@reddit
That’s not really Alaska’s fault. It’s more that SeaTac is an absolute shitshow of an airport
ch4nt@reddit
SEA has the best hub options, Delta or Alaska are both pretty solid
SciGuy013@reddit
SEA is a terrible airport overall though
Andrewofredstone@reddit
Favourite or least? I assume you mean fav but the post title and this response left me a bit confused.
didntcondawnthat@reddit
Love Alaska! Never had a head experience with them!
ColossusOfChoads@reddit
They saved my ass when I missed a flight to Seattle. I shook the guy's hand over the counter.
Eric848448@reddit
I can’t wait to fly them to Europe. This Hawaiian merger might turn out to be the best thing to ever happen to SeaTac.
charcuteriebroad@reddit
Alaska is overrated. Delta is infinitely superior. I do not understand the Alaska hype.
HegemonNYC@reddit
I love living in the PNW when it comes time to fly. PDX is a great airport and Alaska Airlines is the best US airline. Too bad both airport and airline are limited in destinations. It’s too often that I end up on one of the crappy airlines or connecting in a terrible airport like LAX due to limited routes. But if you can make it work, Alaska is by far the best.
nonstopflux@reddit
The new PDX is beautiful
YoungKeys@reddit
Alaska is great, but I really miss Virgin. Best American airline I've ever flown, but Alaska bought them out.
Dejavroomvroom@reddit
Yes. Alaska is IT.
1radgirl@reddit
This is the answer. Alaska is it.
FixergirlAK@reddit
Alaska is always the answer.
If I have to fly another airline it's usually KLM.
Entropy907@reddit
We are so lucky to have Alaska as our primary airline.
FixergirlAK@reddit
Living in Alaska would be hellish without it.
Entropy907@reddit
True story. I mean … RAVN Air lol.
Js987@reddit
They sure do have great service, but I still have trouble 100% trusting they’ve changed their maintenance ways after Alaska Airlines Flight 261, even 25 years on.
Eric848448@reddit
Ever see the movie based on that accident? It’s pretty amusing.
BobsleddingToMyGrave@reddit
I choose United because 65% of the time, the staff is pleasant.
American staff surly.
Delta staff is jaded and defeated.
The last time I flew American, the plane was 50% empty. People were moving around so you could lay down or spread out in the extra seats. We had some turbulence, and a few people didn't want to buckle up. ( even though you could buckle up and still lay down.) The attendants made everyone go back to assigned seats because of a few assholes.
BustANutInThisThread@reddit (OP)
How do you lay down and buckle up?
BobsleddingToMyGrave@reddit
Ask for a seatbelt extender, sit in the center seat it easily fit around with enough room to lay down.
. I carry my own extender. Even at 180 lbs, those seatbelts are snug, and I have sciatic nerve issues. You can buy them on Amazon for under $20.
Calm-Phrase-382@reddit
Delta is just the best but pricey. You wifi in the flight now too which is crazy.
surfinforthrills@reddit
I have always had a pleasant flight with Delta. That's my pick.
IDigRollinRockBeer@reddit
I’ve flown five times in my life. Couldn’t tell you what airline I used ever
IDigRollinRockBeer@reddit
I didn’t even know we had a big 3 of airlines
SameStatistician5423@reddit
Alaska & southwest are the only airlines I use generally.
g_d15@reddit
American is my least favorite and I only like the Bischof cookies. I prefer United & have the most miles with them. Unfortunately I live in an American hub.
AngeluvDeath@reddit
Which ever one is going where I want to be with the few stops for the least amount of money. Overall they are pretty much the same product, and the differences either don’t stand out enough to me or aren’t worth the extra money for the name on the side of the plane. I have no loyalty to any of them.
SideEmbarrassed1611@reddit
I have flown American. Eh. Pass.
United sucks.
Delta is far superior and is my only airline. I have flown it my entire life and the drastic difference between it and the others makes me feel uncomfortable when I fly other than Delta. Delta is just supreme.
Nawnp@reddit
They're all basically the same, and no advantages of disadvantages outright.
In general, you end up being stuck with one as their either the closest hub, or closest hub to your destination.
risky_bisket@reddit
American and United are both terrible. Shitty outdated planes, mediocre service, and high prices. It goes: Delta, Jet Blue, Southwest
brokentr0jan@reddit
High prices? Delta is way, way more expensive than American and United.
risky_bisket@reddit
True but the quality is better
DenverZeppo@reddit
United, because hubs. I think most people gravitate towards the airlines that fly the best out of their airport. As someone who has lived in Denver for a large part of my life, and currently in the Chicago area, United gets me everywhere in the world easily.
That's what I want from an airline.
Nonnie0224@reddit
Have had so many Delta flights cancelled or delayed. A friend told me that DELTA stands for Doesn’t Ever Leave The Airport! It is actually no worse than the others. Flying has turned into a shit show over the years!
HeadCatMomCat@reddit
If you live at a hub, your choice is pretty much made. I'm 20 min from Newark. Newark is a United hub. So United, formerly Continental, it is.
United has gotten a lot better in the past few years. My flights are on time and I arrive along with my baggage. I haven't flown the other two often enough to have a relevant opinion. But I do occasionally travel to JFK to pick up specific flights (direct flights to Argentina on AA, Italy on ITA).
Stunning-Track8454@reddit
Delta is the best. It's shit, but it's the best we have.
But also, Delta uses mostly Airbus which uses all Airbus now, and I would never fly Boeing because American technology is garbage.
parker9832@reddit
I hate them all. I miss US Air. I guess I hate Delta the least.
Apprehensive_Yard_14@reddit
if I had to pick one for the 3, I would pick Delta to fly first. I only fly American if I have no other choice. Never had a smooth flight with them. Always an issue.
coolkirk1701@reddit
Well I work for one of them. So the nonrev benefits kinda make it my favorite. I don’t really have a least favorite of the big three. They’re all excellent carriers and now that they all basically have the same aircraft mix there’s nothing for my avgeek brain to prefer one over the other
Oscar-mondaca@reddit
Delta 100%. I'm from the Twin Cities and MSP is a hub for DA and I can fly anywhere with DA. Service is always great and never had any issues with them. Sun Country is the other airliner that has a hub at MSP. It's ok, nothing special but they are a leisure airliner and have limited destinations that most are seasonal, so its not really the most practical airliner. Alaska is the only other US airliner I like. Southwest is a bit chaotic but is a decent option as a budget airliner. Both United and American are garbage airliners. I swear the backseats of my 2 door coupe has better legroom than American and they took out IFE while charging you more. For the love of god, spend a couple more bucks flying Southwest than choosing Frontier and Spirit. I rather fly JPAT than to fly on Spirit, Frontier, American and United.
qu33nof5pad35@reddit
Delta is my fave and United is my least fave. I haven’t flown with them in decades.
wahitii@reddit
United>American>Delta. It mostly depends on where I live, based on proximity to a major hub for the airline. The experience on the plane among those three is not different enough to matter to me. Quality of plane varies a little, but seems more related to which route you fly, not the airline. I assume they put their best planes on the busiest, most popular routes.
kaka8miranda@reddit
Delta easily for domestic flights
American Airlines for international flights
fenrirwolf1@reddit
Delta is my fave, American my avoid at all costs
Due_Signature_5497@reddit
Agree. Delta is pretty predictable and on time. Maybe it’s just bad luck but of the dozen times I’ve chosen American, 11 have had issues (late, stuck on tarmac for an hour or more, cancelled flights, etc.)
cluttered-thoughts3@reddit
All my American flights that connect or involve PHL in any way, always have some issue
AffectionateJury3723@reddit
I have had that exact same experience with Delta. Last trip my business partners and I ended up renting a car and driving 6 hours to get home. Our Canadian counterparts drove with us and caught a flight with another airline to get home. Cancelled flights, delays for up to a day. Little to no compensation for delays.
Niles_Urdu@reddit
Aw man, I have a flight on American coming up next week. Goddamned office did that for me. Fingers crossed.
docthrobulator@reddit
American and Delta are alright. United will always have a special place due to having had family work for them.
brokentr0jan@reddit
Favorite: American
Least: United
Airline I am to poor for: Delta
Strict-Permission-93@reddit
Delta is best. American sucks.
Competitive-Fee2661@reddit
Delta is my favorite. I live near a Delta hub, which makes things significantly easier for me, and I also have good frequent flyer status, which means they treat me well when I need to be accommodated.
Rvtrance@reddit
Any American based airliner kinda sucks. It’s kinda a race to the bottom. Just give me southwest. It’s cheap but stops its self from becoming Spirt. It just depends on if I buy first class or not at the big three. If you had to make me answer it’s AA because DFW is a major hub so I’ve flown first class on there the most. But really I’d rather be on an airbus than a Boeing of the same size. Doesn’t matter what the liner is. Type of plane is a big deal.
ChilindriPizza@reddit
Delta wins for favorite!
Not too familiar with United. American Airlines is okay- but I prefer Delta.
Remarkable_Long_2955@reddit
Strongly prefer American, avoid United if possible
Prof_Acorn@reddit
They all suck. Delta is the worst. Alaskan is the best.
Mossy_Rock315@reddit
Delta lost my luggage once and then brought me someone else’s luggage. I had to bring the wrong bag back to the airport and find my own suitcase. I guess it’s good that they didn’t give my suitcase away. I’m neutral on American United is my number one. I fly them enough to have a FF# They have a good points program and the benefits are nice. My flights are generally comfortable and safe.
EpiZirco@reddit
Which of the three witches from Macbeth is your favorite?
Weird-Somewhere-8198@reddit
United cause of the snacks
Affectionate-Act1574@reddit
I fly American because I have their credit card that gives me airline miles. Free flights are the best flights!
dannybravo14@reddit
Delta every time. And the primary reason is when shit goes south for any reason, they are 10x more likely to help you get where you need to and go out of their way to do it. UA might if you get someone in a good mood. American will tell you to bend over without the courtesy of a reach around.
ggcpres@reddit
Southwest beats all three.
You don't get nickel and dimed and my 6'3 self can kinda fit in the seats.
Charlesinrichmond@reddit
Delta United then lots of empty space then American
Tiny-Act3086@reddit
I know a few people who are involved in the aircraft building and parts world; they like Alaske and American Air...so that's what I like lol
mahgretfromqueens@reddit
I've flown with all three and personally haven't had a bad experience with any, though my delta flight circled around the tarmac for a good 30 minutes before taking off, but I think that was more of an airport issue (flying out of Chicago on a puddle jumper to Richmond).
bladel@reddit
Even tho I moved away from O’Hare as a hub, I’m still loyal to United. Delta is just as good, but I don’t have status.
Alaskan/Hawaiian are really great options for personal travel.
American and Southwest have really deteriorated since COVID.
vt2022cam@reddit
Delta is my favorite and American is my least. I’ve had more cancellations with American and the desk staff is the least helpful.
RightToTheThighs@reddit
Usually JetBlue takes me where I need to go, but of the 3, delta is my choice. Delta has yet to upset me
AnybodySeeMyKeys@reddit
Delta is my favorite. American sucks monkey balls.
On_my_last_spoon@reddit
Oof I have had the opposite experience. Delta had been some of my worst flying experiences ever. American, somehow I’ve lucked out multiple times and got upgraded to first class for very few dollars extra!
AffectionateJury3723@reddit
Same. I travel for work frequently and Delta has been the worst experience. Delayed, cancelled flights, terrible track record.
chickenfightyourmom@reddit
Same. I've flown internationally and domestically on all 3, and by far, American has been the best experience.
SeeYouOn16@reddit
The last time I flew Delta was ATL to PHX and they had the seats in the plane so close together I spent almost the entire flight in the galley as I physically didn't fit in my seat. I'm not freakishly tall or anything, 6'3", but my knees were jammed into the seat in front of me and I have nowhere to go, one of the worst experiences I've ever had on any flight and I fly often. That was pre covid and I haven't flown them since. I fly American probably 7 or 8 times a year and have never had that issue, or any issue with them. I'm actually flying Delta for the first time since then next week back to Atlanta and I'm genuinely nervous about it.
sweetEVILone@reddit
I would have said the same, but my last international flight, which was over dinner time, they didn’t serve us dinner. The flight attendant said they don’t do hot food anymore. We had a fruit and cheese plate “option” or something else but I don’t know what the other option was because they didn’t have any left. I was super disappointed
theoverniter@reddit
What route was this, out of curiosity? I know flying to Colombia we had only the cold food. It’s always a hot meal service to Europe
Cheech74@reddit
Yeah I think they're confused. I JUST flew from Munich to Detroit, and they stuffed us with hot food. It was almost too much!
Plum_pipe_ballroom@reddit
Wonder if this was when the Delta hot food caterer had poisoned an entire international flight, so until they switched caterers there were no hot meals available
judgingA-holes@reddit
I've never flown any of them because they aren't the cheapest option.
And I just want to throw in an RIP to the Southwest free luggage :(
chateaulove@reddit
Delta is my favorite. Usually pretty classy and clean.
United is the worst. Back in 2019, I remember being squeezed in those seats in Economy. It was horrible, and I’m a small person. P
Jorost@reddit
I haven't noticed any difference between these three, although it has been a long time since I flew any of them. Alaska for domestic flights, Lufthansa for international.
sp4nky86@reddit
United for the app and the generally cheap flights, Delta international if I can get a codeshare on an AirFrance or KLM plane, American for international in general.
Trilliam_West@reddit
Delta easily for the favorite. American for least, though I haven't flown United much, so if I used them as much as I've used Delta and American, my opinion might change.
Sabertooth767@reddit
I favor Delta. They have statistically fewer delays, virtually never involuntarily deny boarding, and mishandle less baggage.
marg1486@reddit
What do you mean by "deny boarding?"
shakeyshake1@reddit
I’m assuming they mean telling people they can’t fly because the plane is overbooked. They’ll just keep offering more money and perks until enough people are incentivized to voluntarily agree to wait for another flight.
NCC1701-Enterprise@reddit
Out of those 3 I prefer Delta, best routes. I do find myself flying Breeze a lot more lately though, for quick trips the price is great, they offer first class seating, and they have a lot of routes, I know they are considered a "discount" airline, but in my opinion the planes are far more comfortable than what the big 3 offer.
psychocentric@reddit
I don't fly much, but I like Delta the best so far. I've only had one delayed flight, and they were ready to go within a half an hour. Their customer service is also pretty helpful, although you do have to escalate it to a higher person sometimes. I had an issue with a voucher because I tried to schedule a vacation in 2020 (before the shutdown), but the second rep was super helpful in getting a new flight figured out for me before my credit expired.
I've flown United a few times and each flight was delayed significantly. My friend who was traveling from another airport, had to argue with customer service to get a hotel room for a cancelled connecting flight. It was something ridiculous like a 24 hours before she could get on another flight to our destination.
SonoranRoadRunner@reddit
I prefer American and really like Alaska because the seats are comfortable and Flight Attendants are nice. I quit flying United years ago because the seats force your head forward & down.
Planescape_DM2e@reddit
Plane is plane. Gets me to where I need to go.
LetsGoGators23@reddit
Delta for a variety of reasons, a big one being I prefer Atlanta to Miami as a local hub (I’m in Tampa) and fly internationally more than domestically and like their partnerships (primarily Air France). I also get lounge access with my AmexPlat
LadyLothlorien@reddit
Delta used to be my favorite but we moved to Chicago and there isn’t a hub here. We switched to United and I honestly prefer it between the two now.
Loud_Inspector_9782@reddit
Since I fly out of DFW my favorite is American. We can fly everywhere in the U.S. from here. Have nothing against Delta or United though. Just don't have the choices. As for delays, weather is a big factor everywhere. Hate flying in the spring because of the number of days with thunderstorms and ground halts. That cannot be any airline's fault. I also try to fly early to give myself options if my flight has an issue. I have time through the day to do something else.
wheel_wheel_blue@reddit
Delta I would say when I used to live in Utah. Now I travel often to Germany and American has been good. United at last.
kelticladi@reddit
I'm too poor to have an opinion about this. Like many other Americans can't afford a single unexpected expense and you out here asking which airline we like better?? Dude, I have never been able to afford a single flight. How am I going to have a favorite?
Practical_Argument50@reddit
I really don't have a choice. United. I live near EWR.
Snorkle25@reddit
None, and yes.
The only reason you choose any of them is necessity and price.
blaspheminCapn@reddit
The one that has the hub closer to your house.
MortimerDongle@reddit
Whichever one has the most direct flights from your airport... I've flown them all a bunch and have no preference beyond that. My nearest airport is PHL, so AA is the only real option. United from Newark is doable but about twice as far.
Particular_Bet_5466@reddit
Agreed. United has a lot of flights out of Denver so I mostly fly that, which is fine. I’ve flown all the major airlines and they are generally the same to me. Except frontier, that’s also a hub in Denver and they are clearly not quite as nice.
chattykatdy54@reddit
You can’t just leave out Jet Blue!
Tapingdrywallsucks@reddit
I've never lived near a Delta hub, but I've arranged travel for many business people who would rather hitchhike than take a different airline.
My experiences with United have been overall positive - but I ask very little. Seeing a gate agent boot someone out of line who was trying to sneak into an early group made my day. I think he saw me do a little fist-bump/YES when he booted the guy because he gave me an extra wide smile and a wink while checking my boarding pass. That made me love United, honestly.
It's been ages since flying American, but nearly half the flights I took out of San Diego has some THING that made me regret having a job that involved a lot of travel. The worst was an overpacked flight I was taking with a coworker. The woman in our aisle seat had packed all of her shit in our foot space and the flight attendant said there was nothing she could do about it. And by packed, I mean there was no room for my feet, so I put 'em on top of her stuff and dared her to say a damn thing about it. Most airlines would have booted her entitled ass.
Merc_Drew@reddit
Whichever one has the cheaper flight for the time frame I want is my favorite
KevinDean4599@reddit
All the flights I take on Delta are pretty good. They are all pretty bare bones at this point.
Derwin0@reddit
Delta is my favorite as I live in the Atlanta area and it’s their main hub, so I can get a direct flight to almost anywhere.
As for least favorite, probably United.
Tacoshortage@reddit
Southwest. Better boarding system (they just trashed it). Better seat-assignment system (this changed too). Better luggage system (also just trashed it) and the employees are fantastic (better hiring/training system). Honestly, Southwest has just trashed everything I love about them. They must be run by an accountant now like at Boeing.
But sadly I fly American mostly. The location of DFW, their hub, combined with my status due to years of using them make this one my favorite.
SecretaryBubbly9411@reddit
I’ve only been on Delta and American Airlines, I liked American better than Delta.
SeaDry1531@reddit
Hate American. Last time, I took an AA from London to Chicago. The seat was so worn out that I was sore for 3 days, which was 7 years ago. I have and will pay more to avoid the pain and not contribute to the CEO bonuses. Delta is ALWAYS late with international flights, I have been delayed between 4-26 hours because of the delays. Of the 3, I dislike United the least, have had the fewest problems for international flights. I avoid US carriers as much as possible.
Humbler-Mumbler@reddit
Fav Delta. Least American.
Impressive-Crew-5745@reddit
Alaska is the best, but of those listed I’d go with American. Never had a bad experience with them, and I used to fly a lot. Delta was the worst of those listed because I’ve never had a Delta flight that wasn’t delayed or overbooked. Still by far not the worst airline out there.
MantisToboganPilotMD@reddit
not a ton of experience, but Delta is my favorite. I don't know which is my least favorite.
marigoldpossum@reddit
So I live near DTW and in general fly Delta as great direct flight options. I wonder if you'll get different answers based on where people live, and if their nearby airport is a hub for a certain airliner, and hubs are generally better customer service than non-hubs.
jurassicbond@reddit
I live in Atlanta, so Delta is about 95% of my flights and they've always been fine.
I haven't really flown the other two enough to comment, but I do remember American cancelled the second leg of my trip without telling me and if I hadn't checked ahead of time I would have been stranded in Charlotte.
cmh_ender@reddit
Delta - the sky clubs are nice, the planes tend to be fewer, decent connections and coverage.
American - feels like their planes are about ready for the trash heap
United is meh.
1Angel17@reddit
Delta is my favorite
Careless-Ability-748@reddit
I buy whatever flight is cheapest (including Jet Blue, which you didn't mention) and most convenient. I've never had any observable difference in service.
johnny_evil@reddit
I feel that answers this question are mostly gonna be informed by a person's location. I live closer to airports where Delta has a superior presence, and Delta is my favorite, United my least.
ophaus@reddit
I don't fly enough to have an opinion, just go on the cheapest that goes where I'm going.
marksman81991@reddit
I fly Southwest but if I had to choose, Delta was my favorite and I hate the other two. American is the worst.
No-Ganache4851@reddit
American because of the location of their hub. I live in OKC and often fly to Boston, NY, or Europe. Most flights on other airlines go through ATL or IAH, which adds stupid time to the flights.
Cincoro@reddit
Continental was my favorite by far.
They were bought by United, and while United isn't as good a company, it's close enough.
Not a fan of Delta and only use AA when I have to get to a place that only they fly to.
Schnelt0r@reddit
Delta is my favorite domestic airline.
I'd rather be hurled by a series of trebuchets than ever fly United again.
LoyalKopite@reddit
Delta they give me good seats on US Army business.
NotTheATF1993@reddit
I've never had issues flying with either of them so whichever one is cheaper for where I'm going is my favorite lol.
Silent_Designer04@reddit
Least favorite: American. It always seems whenever I take a flight. One of my planes needs to be fixed or things are delayed, the flight is overbooked.
I think Delta is my favorite and United is in the middle.
ri89rc20@reddit
Fly Delta almost exclusively. Besides all the things mentioned, I always have to fly through a hub, MSP, ATL, and DTW are great to use, way better than the ORD, DFW, JFK, hubs that are the other options
MazdaValiant@reddit
I like United because their crews were always nice when they stayed in my hotel, and because they were on time, even a little early when I flew with them.
Lower_Kick268@reddit
Ive never flown on any of those luxury airlines, Spirit is more in my budget.
Difficult-Spirit8588@reddit
Only Delta. On 911 - American Airlines Flight 11, American Airlines Flight 77, United Airlines Flight 93, and United Airlines Flight 175 – is integral to the history of the day.
MidnightPandaX@reddit
Ok but like its not their fault 9/11 happened? I get a lot of reasons people dont like united and american airlines but i never got this exact reason
Difficult-Spirit8588@reddit
At the time, the word was American, and United Airlines had security breaches. They knew it, but to make their schedules and be efficient, things got slack. Is this true? I can't testify. However, I worked at One Chase a block away from the Trade Center and experienced the day first hand with my Wall Street neighbors. Maybe the airline question triggered old nightmares. Knee-jerk. Thus, my answer and my flight company preference.
MidnightPandaX@reddit
Thats definitely fair if you were there and have trauma from it. I hope youre doing well and havent been harmed by the dust cloud
Difficult-Spirit8588@reddit
Thank you.
BubbhaJebus@reddit
United, because it gets me from TPE to SFO relatively cheaply with no transfers.
Difficult-Spirit8588@reddit
At the time, the word was American, and United Airlines had security breaches. They knew it, but to make their schedules and be efficient, things got slack. Is this true? I can't testify. However, I worked at One Chase a block away from the Trade Center and experienced the day first hand with my Wall Street neighbors. Maybe the airline question triggered old nightmares. Thus, my answer and my flight company preference.
EmergencyRace7158@reddit
Delta is the only one I’d consider decent by global standards. UA and AA are straight garbage. I do 10-12 long haul international business class trips a year for work out of Houston and despite IAH being a UA hub the only time I fly them is Sao Paulo where they have a monopoly to. I hate the tiny polaris seats, carb heavy food, old planes and poor service. I fly ANA, Qatar, Emirates, BA and Singapore fairly regularly and they’re all far, far superior to UA.
unclesmokedog@reddit
Least Favorite: United by a mile. Had a nightmare trip from Baltimore to Seattle that took an extra 12 hours thanks to their bullshit. they tried to send me back to the east coast from chicago to change planes. Nothing quite like a 10 hour layover in their ohare terminal while a Mashup of rhapsody in blue and chariots of fire is on a loop
DriftingPyscho@reddit
I'll never fly S&M Airlines again!
needmoak6040@reddit
Delta is the only one of the three that has, on average, solid service and amenities. Their employees are usually nice, their planes are usually clean and spacious (as spacious as basic economy can be), and they usually get you to your destination on time.
American and United are both significantly worse. In my experience they both tend to have worse leg room and space in economy than Delta, and their staff are slightly ruder on average. I’ve never experienced crazy delays with American, but I have on two occasions with United. As far as space is concerned, I’ve never had any problems with Delta but the last few times I’ve flown American and United I’ve felt like I’m stuffed into a sardine can. I recently flew an American flight from Miami to Raleigh and paid for Premium Economy, only for my marginally improved legroom to be offset by a seat so narrow that it makes Ryanair or Easyjet look luxurious in comparison.
medhat20005@reddit
I did expect that my ranking would mirror that of others, and am correct. Delta, United, American. Delta is easily better, easily more expensive, which is why I seldom can fly for work (need least cost fare). So that typically leaves American. I will say that it appears they're trying, and more often than not it's at least acceptable. Their boarding process is typically lacking, but I attribute that as much to the clientele (lowest cost flyers) as to the process itself. United is legitimately in the middle here, and I've flown that more frequently for personal travel as my SO now has status. But as much as I like Delta, the in-flight entertainment of the two others is better.
Exogalactic_Timeslut@reddit
Delta. It’s just superior in every way.
ThisDerpForSale@reddit
I've had good and bad experiences on all three. Probably my fewest bad experiences have been on United, but really, they've all been pretty similar. Others obviously have different perspectives.
Generally people like Alaska. Southwest is pretty polarizing - some love it, some hate it.
But I think one thing we can all agree on is that Spirit is absolute garbage.
StuckInWarshington@reddit
Had the fewest bad experiences with Delta, but they’re almost always the most expensive on the routes I fly most often. American sucks, but I still use them to get to specific places. I’ve actively avoided United for over a decade. They might be better, now but I wouldn’t know. Alaska and Hawaiian are usually better options than any of those 3, if they stop in the city you need to get to.
GeekyPassion@reddit
Delta is the best no question. United randomly throws people off their planes. I really kno nothing about American.
Exciting-Silver5520@reddit
Delta, then United then American. Delta was actually really nice to us when Frontier abandoned our family on the concourse at La Guardia overnight. Even though we weren't flying through them they took pity on us and brought us pillows, waters and cookies. You didn't ask about Frontier, but as you can probably guess they're my least favorite airline.
kstravlr12@reddit
American is my go-to. Direct flights are nice. United and Delta don’t have direct flights to anywhere I want to go so I never use them. I have a co-branded credit card with American, so most of my flights are $11 (tax only). And I have status, so occasionally get upgraded to business class.
Hefty-Cicada6771@reddit
I could have typed the same answer as my own. I own a business with very high overhead. I pay as many expenses as possible with five co-branded cards. I pay $11 for domestic flights, a bit more for international, am EXP, and regularly upgraded. Their rewards program has been good to me. I'm fine with the service. I enjoy Emerald status for lounge access. Now my Delta Sky Pesos are another story. Useless.
MashTheGash2018@reddit
I fly 60-80 times a year. If I had it my way it would be Delta but my hub requires American or Southwest. American has been pretty reliable for me the last 13 years. I’m pretty much off Southwest now because of there soon to be changes and point devaluation
User_1115@reddit
never flown united.
i prefer american. haven't had any problems. I've bad luck with delta, last three times ive flown with them there's been delays, don't know how preventable they were but ive just had worse experiences. And it helps that CLT is a huge american hub.
Ethanhuntknows@reddit
Delta is good to very good for the most part. Good mileage. Lounges are getting overcrowded and too hard to access…. AA is the worst in every way. I refuse to fly them.
annaoze94@reddit
United but I'm biased because my dad had a 800 billion miles on there so I always flew United. I'm from Chicago which is THE United hub and now I live in LA which is also a big United hub. Went to one of their lounges once (first time at an airport lounge) at O'Hare and it was top-notch, free liquor even couldn't believe that.
But I think it's just what I'm familiar with because my cousins are the same exact way with Delta and they load in Atlanta which is the equivalent of United and Chicago.
I don't fly often but I've never had any issue with United honestly I've missed flights I've had delays and they were always top-notch with service. I know they're not always the friendly skies but I've only ever experienced flying the friendly skies.
Recently I flew home for Christmas on Southwest with a layover each way and they were wonderful and lovely and it was pretty much no different than United Because my dad was mileage plus so I never had to pay for bags but now my dad is out of miles and Southwest charges for bags now.
I was so ready to go all in on Southwest back in December.
I've flown Delta but it was
MajorRagerOMG@reddit
I truly never understood how American is still in business. Literally everyone hates them, it’s the one thing this country is not polarized about.
Predictor92@reddit
Has hubs in larger cities and corporate contracts( Deltas hubs tend to be secondary cities with the exception of New York and Atlanta )
Spiritual_Lunch996@reddit
They're all just different flavors of mediocrity. I've flown all 3 extensively, but currently have top status with American - not because I particularly like the airline (or hate it), but because OneWorld is the best alliance for my international-heavy travel needs.
hsj713@reddit
Of the big 3 I've flown with United the most. I've never flown with American and I absolutely refuse to fly with Delta!
Back in 1984 my wife was 7 months pregnant with our fi red st child. We had gone to San Diego from LA for a weekend stay. We went on a dinner cruise which was heavily booked and crowded with mostly Delta employees. I guess it was some company party. Well my wife was tired and sat down on a chair on the deck. Then this old hag around her 60s or 70s started barking at my wife to get up from that chair because it was occupied by a friend. I explained to her that my wife was pregnant and tired and needed to rest a bit and that she would get up when their friend showed up. The hag didn't want to hear it and had a hissy fit yelling at us. I got so angry and got a crew member and told him what was happening. Well, the hag was told that seats could not be reserved and my wife had a right to it.
When we got back home I wrote a scathing letter to Delta about how rude and inconsiderate one of their employees had treated my wife. Of course they sent me a standard letter of apology and that they always expect their employees to be professional on and off work. They sent us a voucher to use on any domestic flight but we never used it. Yeah, I still have a grudge against them. That experience with that hag soured my interest in ever using Delta.
cryptoengineer@reddit
Jet Blue
Sleepygirl57@reddit
Southwestern
terryaugiesaws@reddit
It's like asking my favorite STD to get.
Anyways, Delta.
ToXiC_Games@reddit
United has nice benefits for service members and one of its spokes is near me so I fly them nearly exclusively.
jrhawk42@reddit
Of those 3 Delta but I avoid all 3 of them. Typically I fly Alaska and Southwest.
bigtiddyhimbo@reddit
American is downright horrendous. Flown with them exactly once and I never hope to have to ever again.
I don’t fly much, don’t have the need to really, but I’d for sure stick with Delta or United over American any day.
SubBirbian@reddit
I miss when we had a lot more choices. Continental Airlines was my dad’s preferred for business trips.
PJASchultz@reddit
Continental was THE BEST. They were the Delta of their time — consistently best rated for customer service, most satisfied passengers, best flight stats. And Newark Terminal C in Continental days was the epitome of luxury. Man, I miss it so much.
Dark_Tora9009@reddit
I remember liking Continental a lot on international flights… don’t remember why exactly, I just remember having overall pleasant experiences
Dizzy_Lengthiness_92@reddit
I’ve always had a good experience with united. I’ve flow delta once and it was a great experience and would fly again. I’ve only flown American once when I was on my way to basic training. They were also great and gave my parents a pass so they could go to the gate with me and we could spend a little bit more time together so 5⭐️ for customer service.
fishinfool561@reddit
I don’t fly any of them
typewrytten@reddit
Delta and I have personal beef. I pick whatever is the cheapest and has the best luggage options for my planned trip.
False-Librarian-2240@reddit
Southwest isn't a major airline? They're all I fly on.
WesternCowgirl27@reddit
I think the poster should’ve phrased the question as 3 major legacy airlines to avoid confusion. Southwest is a major airline, but they’re not a legacy airline (if that makes sense).
GuttaBrain@reddit
Delta > United > > > > > > > American
GuttaBrain@reddit
Delta (Always a good, solid experience) United (Used to just be okay, is getting much better) V V V V American (Is hellbent on becoming the worst of the 3 legacy carriers)
nemc222@reddit
United favorite. American least. I am not sure I have ever flown Delta. I have had the best of luck with United. I have never flown American where there weren’t delays when other flights were running smoothly.
Traditional_Trust_93@reddit
I've never flown with any of them. My family has always used Sun Country.
Icy-Bother8018@reddit
I used to work there: lol
CerebralAccountant@reddit
Currently, I would rank them:
Delta. Usually the "best" US major. Strong operational performance, generally excellent gate agents & flight attendants who are empowered to do what's right. Older planes, but maintained well enough to keep running. From my experience, they're also the most generous at compensating passengers for extreme delays or cancellations.
United. They're going through a golden age right now. In a lot of ways, they're more innovative than Delta: they were the first after COVID to waive all change & cancellation fees, first to offer free same-day standby through their smartphone app (which is outstanding), and lately they've been on a tear with new route announcements like Tokyo to Ulaanbaatar and Newark to Nuuk. Their hubs are in way more populous cities, so there's a much better chance they'll fly where I need to go.
American. I fly American because I have to, not because I want to. They have a strong domestic route network, especially in the middle third of the US, but their airfares are lower because the quality of product is often lower. Their hubs are often out of the way, requiring longer routes (especially Phoenix to West Coast, DFW to the northern half of the US, and Miami to anywhere in the US); Charlotte is simply a crappy hub for connections; they tend to struggle more with thunderstorms and bad weather; and every single nasty flight attendant or gate agent I've ever seen worked for American or US Airways. Every. Single. One.
Icy-Bother8018@reddit
Living in Chicago makes United like my best friend. I can get on a plane home from a work trip usually within an hour of leaving the office even if I had it booked for the following day. Love that standby and free changes
LunarVolcano@reddit
i’ve flown southwest more than any other airline, usually have had good experiences but i’m not liking their new announcements getting rid of the features that made them stand out (free checked bags, no assigned seats). i fly united the second most and it still throws me off to have to pay for checked bags and have assigned seats.
i’ve only flown delta on one trip and it was international. felt pretty similar to united. i’ve never flown american.
spark99l@reddit
Delta favorite, United least favorite
Real-Psychology-4261@reddit
Easily Delta. They do everything right. It’s just expensive.
Icy-Whale-2253@reddit
I actively avoid American Airlines
No-Statistician7002@reddit
Southwest is best because they have the best customer service and better seating overall. After that, I would go Delta, American, and United.
Remarkable-Night6690@reddit
Favorite: United because they own the most Boeings (read: the least infrastructure from abroad) of all airlines worldwide.
Least favorite: Never flown American and the food on Delta Premium Economy to London was really good so I'll have to say American.
twowrist@reddit
After Covid, when we both retired and started flying, we picked Delta because it had the reputation of being the most in time. We haven’t had any problems, plus they have their own terminal at Logan instead of the two part terminal B.
Their lounge in Honolulu was ok, not great, but we were spoiled by the United Lounge at SFO which we got into because we were flying Air New Zealand.
We’ve also flown Alaska a couple of times and Hawaiian. I find the background music on Hawaiian to be really relaxing, and would like keep using them for interesting-island hops.
IWasBorn2DoGoBe@reddit
Least favorite- American. Every time I’ve ever had a flight cancelled, it’s been American. If they don’t sell a flight out they cancel the damn thing… always a headache. Everytime I’ve ever lost a bag- American. The inflight amenities NEVER work.
United and Delta it’s a mixed bag/ stuff happens and I get that, and it’s not consistently. I fly twice a month on average and have sporadic issues with them
PsychologicalBat1425@reddit
Favorite: Delta Least Favorite: American
JayeK47@reddit
There's probably not a significant difference between them. Although most the United flights I've been on featured aging Boeing 737s so not the most pleasant experiences, I think that was probably an anomaly of flying on United out of DFW to IAH for every trip which is a short flight. I fly American mostly because of plethora of direct flights out of DFW. I've only flown Delta a couple of times, it was . . . okay.
The best airline I've ever flown on is Pan-Am, hands down. Today's big three are all pretty distant from that level of service.
barbelsandpugs@reddit
Delta. Haven’t had a bad experience yet. I like them enough that I have their American Express card.
fsukub@reddit
Favorite is Delta, least favorite is AA. Unfortunately it’s pretty dictated by which airport you live by - if it’s a hub, you’ll likely be flying that airline most of the time.
DontKnowWhyImHereee@reddit
Well I work for United so I'll go with that. American is the only one I have avoided for most of my life tho
rosemaryscrazy@reddit
None Jet Blue
FloridianMichigander@reddit
I wish Delta had a bigger presence at MCO (Orlando), because they're my favorite. Haven't flown United much at all recently. Had generally ok experiences with American, but their seats feel a little more cramped. Southwest was generally decent, probably won't be anymore. I've had surprisingly good experiences with Breeze, too.
Substantial-Drop-836@reddit
American has the best flights and prices for the airports I fly in and out of most often. Delta used to have decent flights out of my home airport, but their prices have skyrocketed to almost double the American prices. I have only flew united a few times because they don’t have many flights from my home airport to my normal destinations.
AshDenver@reddit
United, then Delta, (then Southwest), then American.
ReindeerFl0tilla@reddit
I’ve pretty much flown only American for the last 35 years. Mostly because I got to use the corporate discount, which made it the cheapest option.
That discount went away after 10 years or so, but I kept with American because I had some miles, I live in one of their hubs, and most importantly…
… they have never fucked me over. I’ve had flights delayed and one cancelled, but nothing truly negative enough to avoid them.
Least favorite? Delta, because those fuckers lost my luggage when I flew to Atlanta for my roommate’s wedding.
jaebassist@reddit
Favorite: Southwest
Least favorite: Spirit
No, I didn't read the question. I'm from Alabama.
pinniped90@reddit
They're all bad, but right now Delta seems slightly less bad.
American and Southwest in particular seem to be falling apart.
United is in a somewhat stagnant level of suck, but it's in the best alliance which helps.
scarletwitchmoon@reddit
Not American Airlines.
I like Delta but it's most expensive. I haven't flied United enough but it's a fine "cheaper" airline.
Wartz@reddit
Delta. I have some hope for humanity, sometimes.
United. bleh, but okay.
American. FML
Empty-Cycle2731@reddit
American is the only one of those three I've flown, and it was okay. Nothing to complain about but nothing to rave about either. I typically fly with Alaska or Southwest, both of which have great service imo.
Tommy_Wisseau_burner@reddit
United only because I get points… otherwise delta
Substantial-Ad-8575@reddit
American. Has more flights that are non-stop from my home. Along with have more miles to use.
United is worse for me. Primarily due to limited number of flights.
As for service/on-time/lost luggage. About same for all 3. Average 80 flights a year on American, 8-12 on Delta, 6-8 on United. Last lost luggage was 2021 on Delta. Stuck in Atlanta for a day, lol. Last late flight, non/weather delay was Delta in 2022. I tend to fly early flights or late flights.
Add in I book other airlines via America, a lot of international flights. So partial to American. 6 million airmiles since 2000 in all with American. Once flew weekly from DFW to Australia for 7 months on American. Yeah, I can accumulate a lot of miles in a hurry.
ehartgator@reddit
DELTA = Doesn't Ever Leave the Airport. All kidding aside, I don't have a favorite as long as I can fly direct out of Orlando. I avoid Atlanta like the plague.
Maxpowr9@reddit
I thought it was: Don't Expect Luggage To Arrive?
Afa1234@reddit
I like Alaska better but I’m a bit biased
Zealousideal_Main654@reddit
Delta has very decent customer service and friendly staff for the most part. American is the worst. United is right in between.
No airline surpasses JetBlue if you ask me though.
IWasBorn2DoGoBe@reddit
Least favorite- American. Every time I’ve ever had a flight cancelled, it’s been American. If they don’t sell a flight out they cancel the damn thing… always a headache. Everytime I’ve ever lost a bag- American. The inflight amenities NEVER work.
United and Delta it’s a mixed bag/ stuff happens and I get that, and it’s not consistently. I fly twice a month on average and have sporadic issues with them
Welcometotheuniverse@reddit
As someone who is at my gate at 11pm with my delayed flight about to get canceled because the flight attendant forgot to call out sick…AA is now my least favorite.
biddily@reddit
Delta is my favorite. American sucks ass.
I appreciate Deltas willingness to land and take off during snow storms. The board will be like, cancelled, cancelled, cancelled - but damn if delta isn't the last one out and last one in.
I live in Boston, so snow happens. And I don't limit my travel to just non snow months. I was living in Europe for a bit and damn did I get frustrated at their airports shutting down for a dusting. Getting rerouted 100 miles away for AN INCH!
And then id be flying into Boston during a blizzard and the delta pilot would be like 'there'll be a bit of turbulence but we're fine. Coming in for landing.'
Ugh I love how they don't give a fuck.
Worst-Eh-Sure@reddit
Grew up in American because my mom was a flight attendant.
Paying for flights, I prefer Delta.
imhereforthemeta@reddit
United. Delta always feels significantly more expensive than the other ones and the benefits just don’t feel worth it to me. If it was expensive, but everybody got treated like they were in business class I would be way more into it.
Valuable-Life3297@reddit
Delta is my favorite. American is least favorite
jshifrin@reddit
I have been loyal to all 3 but these days we are Delta customers. American and United have both downgraded First/American to the extent that they are almost equivalent to Coach economy. If try you are willing to spend the money for the upgrade you should feel the difference. That’s long ago.
redbullsgivemewings@reddit
Southwest is not a major American airline?
Beneficial-Horse8503@reddit
I’ve flown all three internationally. Delta>United>American.
picklepuss13@reddit
Delta, if I fly something else it's usually Southwest, not American or United.
Professional_Mood823@reddit
If I want to have the crap beaten out of me I fly United.
mgir_18@reddit
I've only ever flown Delta. I haven't had any issues. Every flight I've been on is usually quite early to the final destination and the customer service is great. A little pricey, but aren't all airlines nowadays?
International-Mix326@reddit
Delta but a close second is southwest. Never flown alaska but heard good things
extremefuzz777@reddit
Well I can answer the least favorite easily enough: AA. Big thing is customer service, but their on-time performance isn’t too great either.
For the favorite I’m gonna lean slightly towards DL. The thing is United got a lot better since COVID with maintaining their aircraft and they have a fairly modern cabin with good features. I always refer to it as a their hard product, and it’s really good. DL however has a lot of airplanes in need of renovation and their technology is lacking for their customers. However they are in the process of updating their fleet, and their customers service is imo much better. So they have the better “soft product”.
It’s gonna be a lot easier for an airline to improve a hard product by updating their aircraft and customer apps than it is for one to change its own culture to provide better service. On top of that, UA is awful when it comes to overbooking flights. Worst in the industry.
bwurtz94@reddit
Delta favorite. American least. Only two times I’ve been stranded have been on American.
Weird_Squirrel_8382@reddit
United is my favorite, they always seem to look out for me as a disabled customer. Delta I have no opinion on. American makes me feel like I'm annoying them by getting on their airplane.
Kman17@reddit
I honestly don’t think there’s appreciable difference in quality between those three airlines, and so preference should be largely a function of which is the closest hub.
I’m in San Francisco Bay, which is a United hub, so that one gives me the most flight options.
NaiveChoiceMaker@reddit
Southwest is speed running to the big 3’s mediocrity.
sekayak@reddit
I’ve recently noticed that Southwest is always later by a day or two to allow changes to reservations without a fee when there are storms and weather delays.
okamzikprosim@reddit
I think their new change policy they are rolling out might actually be worse than the big 3. Something like six month ticket expiration windows if I remember reading correctly when the others offer a year.
trumpet575@reddit
They're all the same, so whichever is cheapest.
gaytee@reddit
Delta has the best domestic FC, but overall all the carriers are about the same depending on where your home base is.
ImaRiskit@reddit
Fave: Delta Worst: United
Only time I fly American is if I have business trips in Texas or have to travel to Ft Bliss in Oklahoma
exceptionalnugget@reddit
Ft Bliss? That’s is in El Paso, TX… like a 9 hr drive to Oklahoma?
LukasJackson67@reddit
I have ever flown United once and it was fine.
What makes it bad? Genuinely curious
latelyimawake@reddit
Their seating layouts have the least legroom of any airline I’ve seen
LukasJackson67@reddit
Thanks
memyselfandi78@reddit
I don't really have a preference here because they're all just crap these days. I fly Alaska when I can. I used to collect United points to save up for international flights and try to book using the Star alliance Network for Lufthansa flights but the last couple of times that I've done that they subbed in a United co-share and it was not even close to the same quality or service. I had one fight from Frankfurt back to San Francisco where they didn't even have a TV on the seat back in front of me.
Burden-of-Society@reddit
In ranking its; Delta, United, then way down the list is American. Delta rates high in FA and GA service, they are professional. The seating is comfortable, even in cattle class. United acts professional and seating is okay. American is a step above manic/depressive. They’re most redeemable qualities are their planes don’t crash.
Subject_Stand_7901@reddit
Delta.
Then 50 feet of crap.
Then everyone else.
castle_waffles@reddit
I live by a United hub…so United
WatchStoredInAss@reddit
I only fly private.
HegemonNYC@reddit
Domestically, the only truly horrible, inexcusable experience I’ve had was with American. The other two are mediocre but have never wronged me.
For international I’ll pick almost any other major country’s national airline over the US carriers - other than mainland Chinese. JAL, Cathay, Singapore, Eremites, Turkish, British, Korean etc all seem much nicer, newer planes, nicer attendants etc.
FamousAd1919@reddit
I've usually taken American but mainly out of habit and they happen to have better fares for where I usually go from/to. But recently used Delta for some reason and aside from their website and app being clunkier and harder to navigate than the others, thought it was comparatively very nice.
Signal_Membership268@reddit
United. I was 1K for quite awhile before retiring. I felt like I was well treated and when problems occurred they did their best to help. They’re still my first choice.
Midwxy@reddit
Delta favorite. United least favorite.
KR1735@reddit
I loved Northwest Airlines back when they were in operation (major carrier serving the Midwest). Then they merged with Delta and I've come to love them, too. About the best customer service you can get from an American airliner. I take them and KLM every year to Sweden and I couldn't be happier with the service.
aks0324@reddit
Delta is the best by far. Comfy seats, tend to be on time, great customer service.
United is fine. Nothing special, nothing bad. Only negative in my opinion is that the legroom can get really tight on some flights and it just feels claustrophobic.
American is trash. Horrible service, everyone is rude. The in flight streaming never works, the food on international flights is barely edible. Bags go missing frequently. WiFi never works when you need it (I travel for business a lot)
Okay for the others:
Southwest: a nightmare during delays, but fine when it works. Hard to book since they don’t fly to all airports and their technology is too old to allow compatibility with booking systems. Also they’re getting rid of their top-perks (free bags, sit anywhere), but honestly Southwest was getting very expensive for what the product truly is. Friendly service, simple but functional planes.
JetBlue: Not a huge route map, and really only makes sense if you’re using NYC or Ft Lauderdale as a base. But planes are comfy, service is solid. Can’t complain at all.
Alaska: Up there with Delta. Great service, good airplanes, great crew. Just not a great route map.
Yeah_Mr_Jesus@reddit
Delta is my favorite because the first plane I ever flew on was delta. And I like their logo. And their old livery is what I consider to be 'classic'
I 'hate' American because they absorbed TWA and that one was my favorite. It was my favorite because I liked the logo (I was like 9 or 10 at the time) and also because one time when I was little we had like a 10 hour layover in St Louis and I love airports and it was the biggest adventure of my young life. Also another reason why I 'hate' American is because one time when I flew on them we were on an older plane and had some pretty gnarly turbulence and it scared me shitless. Their old livery was really cool though and it made me sad when they changed it. Maybe I would start to like them if I flew on American and I lucked into being on the one plane with the TWA heritage livery 🤷🏻♂️
I 'hate' united because I liked continental and when they merged, united starting using it even though their old liveries and logos were cool.
Any time I've ever flown, I've only ever flown economy. I find that the experience in economy is more or less standardized across American, delta, and united. Although, one time I was able to upgrade to domestic first class on American once and that was pretty nice.
My reasons for liking and disliking them are completely arbitrary, and I don't actually dislike any of them. I just enjoy airports and flying and the only one I do actually dislike is spirit because it can kinda be a tad bit ghetto lol, but even then, it's still an airplane and I still get to hang out at an airport! If American, delta or united did a 180 and decided to acquire an Airbus A380 or bring back the Boeing 747, then that one would instantly become my hands down favorite and I would instantly find a way to buy a ticket to whatever destination it flew to because I LOVE the king and queen of the sky
Nofanta@reddit
Favorite is American. Have not had a problem in years. All other airlines, multiple problems.
starcityguy@reddit
We only fly Delta now. An occasional issue pops up, but vast majority of trips are smooth and positive. No opinion on United. American is garbage. Had a bad experience early every single time we flew them. So we stopped.
ProfessionalFlow8030@reddit
American sucks ass. For a cool $34M their CIO Ganesh Jayaram fired all their IT, set up his own outsourcing company, and sent all the jobs to Hyderabad iot to profit from the move.
Adding insult to injury, he didn’t just displace American workers — he even axed existing Indian H-1B employees, forcing them to reapply for their own jobs in Hyderabad under his control.
Artistic_Cheetah_724@reddit
Favorite-delta Worst - Americans
JFB-23@reddit
Delta is the favorite. I have only heard stories of the others not being great, but will not fly anything but Delta myself. Fantastic customer service, always on time, free in flight WiFi, same day change on any flight, three times now I’ve walked up to the gate early and walked on an earlier flight with the gate agents being more than willing to assist each time. It’s a top notch experience every time.
Maynard078@reddit
My favorite airline these days is Amtrak. By far.
2nd_Pitch@reddit
I only use Delta or JetBlue
hippoluvr24@reddit
Delta of these three, but I prefer JetBlue over any of them.
keithrc@reddit
I feel like it's a complete crapshoot. I would say American is my favorite, and Delta is the worst, but all the top-rated comments are saying the opposite, so... shrug?
isthis_thing_on@reddit
My least favorite is whichever I've flown most recently because flying always sucks.
proscriptus@reddit
Delta is least disappointing, although it has the worst first class.
gummi-demilo@reddit
Delta. Their terminal at LGA is great.
JustPlaneNew@reddit
Favorite: United Second: American Least favorite U.S airline: Delta
Kestrel_Iolani@reddit
None. Alaska, ride it die.
TravelKats@reddit
Internationally, I fly Delta because it’s usually the only direct flight. Domestically, I flyAlaska. Delta has really devolved since the pandemic.
Parking_Champion_740@reddit
American just seems meh. I fly UAL a lot more due to convenience. I haven’t flown delta much
Phaedrus317@reddit
Delta > United >>>>> American.
Southwest was the way, but the new direction they’re taking is going to kill their whole market advantage.
zRustyShackleford@reddit
Delta
American
MaleficentCoconut594@reddit
I like delta but they got way too expensive (what gives?!). I’ve been flying American a lot the past few years, no issues. Rarely fly United, no complaints either
Dachshundpapa@reddit
United, American, spirit and then Delta, never had any issues with the first three. Delta had delayed a flight for over 6hr in Detroit and all they could offer was a few small bottles of water and some chips. Don’t even get me started on the expensive flights, I travel for work and can fly with anyone and I would only fly delta if that’s the only option and at the point I might just drive my own personal vehicle since I get paid $.71/mi.
gatorhinder@reddit
Delta by far my favorite. Of the other 2 I have almost no time on united and American has been okay
HajdukNYM_NYI@reddit
Slight bias as I live near a United hub and they are in an alliance with Lufthansa for my flights to Croatia. However delays are an issue. Delta traditionally has been ranked highly by most travelers and had decent experiences with them. Never flown American. Honestly these days if I’m flying somewhere 1-2 hours away I use one of the LCCs. You get what you pay for but outside of Frontier one time trying to nickel and dime me it’s been ok
Future_Pin_403@reddit
American got us stuck in the charlotte airport for 6 hours and changed our leaving terminal across the airport 3 times last year so they’re definitely my least favorite
freebiscuit2002@reddit
United. Delta and American are both shit.
YourFriendLoke@reddit
I use Southwest and Delta for domestic flights and United for international flights. I've heard people saying Southwest is declining apparently, but I've only had good experiences with them.
okamzikprosim@reddit
Favorite: Delta Least favorite: American
Whitestealth74@reddit
Delta has been my #1 since I was a kid in the 1980s. I also think you should chose your go-to airline based on where you live and what hubs are around you. I live in Alabama, which makes ATL my "hub" and I can get home via Delta 99.9% of the time if a meltdown happens.
knat4@reddit
Delta is the fav. American sucks.
Grouchy_System6535@reddit
Delta, although flipping that one in Toronto wasn’t encouraging.
ParoxysmAttack@reddit
Delta’s marketing team has done an absolutely incredible job at making an amazingly average experience seem 10x better than what it is because the logo is a triangle and there’s some purple on the seat.
New-Lingonberry1877@reddit
1 Delta
The others are the same.
Sholeh84@reddit
Delta is by far the best Airline in the United States unless you're flying your own private jet.
It's not even close.
But if given the opportunity, almost any international airline (except ryan, fuck them) is preferable to a US flight inside the CONUS.
Pensacouple@reddit
They’re interchangeable. Choice depends on where you are and where you’re going and who has the most convenient flight at the best price. Those things outweigh any minor differences.
Which-Effective1611@reddit
Favorite Delta, Least Favorite United
Automatic-Arm-532@reddit
They're all the same really
lauruhhpalooza@reddit
Delta > American > United. But JetBlue ahead of them all.
kipnus@reddit
Fave: Delta
Least fave: United. I hope to never fly with them again. Super uncomfortable seats, bad food, no in-seat entertainment for a ridiculously long international flight...
Measurex2@reddit
Too much depends on your local airports and where you fly the most. For me it's United so they tend to have more flights, are cheaper and I'm more likely to fly them.
After them, I like Delta as a backup and, before they changed boarding, loved Southwest when traveling with our small children
cafelaserlemons@reddit
This is so true. I've never flown Delta because they only have like five or so routes from my airport, and they're never where I want to go.
canisdirusarctos@reddit
Delta is the best of this list. American is the worst. United is in the middle.
T_Peg@reddit
I've literally never had a good experience with American Airlines. Constant gate switching, rude staff, and delays on top of delays.
dmbgreen@reddit
Last trip United FL-CO round trip. No issues.
Relevant_Airline7076@reddit
The main routes I fly are between United hubs, so they’re the only one I use with any regularity, plus I have a credit card with them so I get perks. I can’t remember ever having any issues with them.
It’s been years since I’ve flown American or Delta but I remember not liking either of them for whatever reason
ImCrossingYouInStyle@reddit
Delta. United. American. In that order.
Delta rarely disappoints. United is okay. AA has cancelled too many of my flights at the last minute and still seems understaffed both on the ground and in the air
I also like Southwest, KLM, and Alaska.
Dragonflies3@reddit
I pay with points. Delta’s points are known as Sky Pesos. United is easiest to pay with points.
sleep_zebras@reddit
United is always cheaper flying from my city, and there are lots of non-stop flights every day. So, that one. Second choice is Southwest.
gidgetstitch@reddit
Favorite United- flow for years and no problems
Least favorite: Delta they are really difficult to deal with after a cancellation
American: I don't really like this one but it does have some routes that I cant get on United
OJimmy@reddit
Southwest. I deny your premise
rabidseacucumber@reddit
My least favorite is the one I flew mostly recently, whichever that is. Gun to my head..United.
themcp@reddit
Once - only once - I flew American from Boston to Georgia and back, to visit my family.
The seats were so thin that if I turned slightly I'd feel the seat back flex. The rows were so close that I could feel the knees of the guy behind me pressed into my back the whole way, while seated bolt upright. The guy in front of me (on all legs) kept trying to recline, and WHAMming his seat into my knees, causing me to scream in pain. Rather than asking the guy in front of me to not recline because he was hurting me, the flight attendants all told me to shut up.
On the return trip from Atlanta to Boston they made me do a stopover... in Detroit. (Why I'd go to Detroit on my way to Boston, I don't understand.) Worst airport ever. No seating, and while I was starving the food court actually smelled like rotting food, so I refused to eat there. Then the stopover took twice as long as it was supposed to.
I was in Vegas with United, and my cousin joined me there, to spend time with me alone for the first time ever. I didn't get to see much of him, so this was special for me. We ended up on the same United flight out (he'd be getting off in Atlanta, and I'd be stopping over). First, they refused to seat us together, even though we hadn't been assigned seats in advance. (Me because they had switched aircraft, him because he transferred onto that plane.) So we had to say goodbye in the terminal even though he was seated 50 feet away from me for the next 6 hours. Then they demanded to gate check his bag, and somewhere in the 20 feet between the terminal and the plane, they lost his bag. Then when we got to Atlanta and everyone deplaned but me, the flight attendant demanded that I change seats (from a window to a middle) "so a family can sit together." I wasn't given a choice, they ordered me to move. (You may note this is exactly what they refused to do for me, and they didn't help me moving any of my stuff, I had to move it all myself.) After that experience, I stopped flying United.
1/2
themcp@reddit
2/2
Some years ago I flew Delta a lot. One day I had paid extra for an "extra legroom" seat, and when I got there I found there was a bulkhead in front of my seat and I had less legroom than any other row on the plane. (At the time I was 6'3" and legroom mattered so I wouldn't be in pain for hours.) I asked a flight attendant and she said "you paid extra for that?", laughed at me and walked away. I was starving but hadn't had time to get food in the airport. When we were supposed to depart, the captain announced that an engine had broken and they were looking into it. Half an hour later he announced that they were going to fix the engine, and that we could get off and come back if we wanted, but if the engine got fixed while we were off the plane they'd be leaving promptly and we'd be stranded and out of luck. So nobody got off, and I starved as my legs were in pain from the seat. I asked a flight attendant for any food, even a bag of pretzels, and she told me she couldn't give me anything until we were in the air. It took 3 f-ing hours to fix the plane, all the while I was in pain and very hungry. Finally we took off and got food (pretzels) and flew back to Boston... where we arrived so late, the terminal had been closed, and they had to find someone to let us deplane. We got into a dark terminal, where we were basically marched to the door, where we were dumped on the street. (For those who haven't been here, the airport in Boston is unwalkably far out of the city.) There was no bus to the subway, and the subway had already closed anyway. It was so late that the airport had closed, and cabs didn't want to come get us because they assumed it was a prank call, nobody would want a cab at the airport after it was closed. I finally talked the cab company from my town, 2 towns away, into sending me a cab because they knew I was a regular customer. After they got me and saw I was for real, they sent a crowd of cabs for everyone else, put probably everyone else had to wait a long time in the middle of the night for a cab.
I wouldn't fly Delta again for about 10 years. Years later, they ended up being basically my only choice to visit my family in GA for Christmas. They lost my CPAP, and I was without it for Christmas, so I felt like c**p for Christmas day and my father had to experience me being tired and crabby. I got it the next day, but stores (including the place with CPAPs) basically aren't open on Christmas in Georgia.
Again, I didn't fly Delta again for about 10 years. In December 2013 a friend took me to Los Angeles for a week, and he uses Delta. He and I are both, now, disabled, so he called well in advance to arrange that we'd have wheelchair transportation in the airport. He called again 3 hours before our flight to verify. When we arrived, there was no wheelchair transportation, and we had to find the wheelchair desk on our own. When we did, they told us that they'd have a chair for us in 3 hours - our flight took off in 2. So we had to slog all the way across LAX on our own, two exhausted cripples with luggage and canes. By the time we arrived at our gate, I thought I was going to collapse and we just barely made the flight. (If we had known there would be no wheelchairs, we could have shown up earlier so we'd have time to go calmly across the airport without exhausting ourselves.)
So all those airlines are on the naughty list. I fly Jetblue when I have to. They're far less great than they used to be, but still far better than any of "the big 3."
BrownDogEmoji@reddit
I prefer Delta. When I lived on the west coast, Alaska and Southwest were great to use for quick trips up and down the coast and into AZ and NV. For everything else, Delta.
Hubbna56@reddit
I fly Alaska. We've never had any of the issues you see people complaining about. We have a Alaska cc. It gives you a BOGO for $100
BusyBeinBorn@reddit
Delta is definitely the better experience, but I live in a small city with only a regional airport. Delta offers four flights a day now, but only to Atlanta. I can get anywhere I need to with a shorter layover, but often it’s cost prohibitive over American, which has two flights a day to ORD, CLT, and DFW.
Important-Ad-1499@reddit
Fave is United. United has so many routes, they’re almost always on time, their app and bag tracker is great. I haven’t had a bad experience with United and I fly them regularly.
My airport doesn’t have a lot of Delta flights or routes I prefer so I rarely fly them. I don’t have an opinion on Delta. My friends in bigger cities w/ hub love Delta though.
American is the worst. Almost every flight I’ve been on was delayed or had some mechanical thing.
Southwest isn’t mentioned but it’s a fave airline but prob not for much longer with the upcoming changes.
stolenfires@reddit
Delta is my personal favorite.
I was on an itinerary that had me fly from a small airport to a big one, and then fly from the big one home.
The airplane at the small airport was incredibly late, but even though I was seated near the back of the plane, they let me deboard first to try and make my connecting flight. Well, big airport is big and I still missed my flight. I trudged back to the customer service desk to try and rebook. But by the time I got there, Delta had already automatically rebooked me on the next flight out to my destination. Got to spend an hour having a drink in the lounge with a friend on the same plane.
Ill_Illustrator_6097@reddit
Worst - Delta cut us off from Alcohol after about 3 drinks on a flight from South Korea back to the states. We were leaving Korea for good and after spending a year up near the DMZ we wanted to celebrate. Good thing one of us had a fifth of Jim Beam in the carry on luggage. 1990
Scandanavian AIrline was the best. Beautiful stewardess and plenty of booze. In fact we flew from Alaska to Korea on SAL and the stewardess just parked the drink cart by me and my two Army pals. Drunk singing Hotel California on our way to do a year in South Korea. 1989
TehWildMan_@reddit
Delta's regional coverage in the southeast US is pretty hard to beat with their Atlanta hub, which is pretty nice when you need to fly to some small city and don't have a car in the plan.
Total-Improvement535@reddit
I have only flown American once and it was exactly what I expected. It was slow, expensive, and very self-assured.
I much prefer Southwest. It’s more laid back, nicer seats imo, I got there ahead of time almost every time, and free (non-alcoholic) drinks.
AnymooseProphet@reddit
Unfortunately my favorites from the 1980s, PanAm and TWA, no longer exist...
Last time I flew a lot was in the 1990s and I liked Southwest Airlines the best. Affordable yet the staff was always very kind and courteous.
These days I simply no longer fly, it's become too expensive and too complicated for commoners like me.
CaptainWampum@reddit
You spelled Alaska wrong
Shaking-a-tlfthr@reddit
Delta best by far. American awful.
coysbville@reddit
Delta is the best. I think United and American both suck equally. I'd honestly book with Southwest before them because I'd essentially be getting the same experience for a fraction of the price.
therlwl@reddit
None, don't remember the last time I've used any of those.
latelyimawake@reddit
Delta is the best by far. Great customer service.
I refuse to fly American.
LlewellynSinclair@reddit
I can only attest to my experience with Delta and American, don’t recall ever flying United. My last trip I flew them both first class, and based on that, Delta was my favorite. I actually felt like it was a first class experience, and it was on relatively short flights (Orlando to Birmingham, AL via Atlanta). American was OK (Birmingham to Orlando via Charlotte) but I had more amenities and a better overall experience on Delta.
MoonieNine@reddit
I avoid United at all costs. They screwed me over with a rebooking and the phone rep outright lied to me.
Gold_Telephone_7192@reddit
United has the most flights and usually the cheapest flights from where I live, and that’s all I care about, so I’ll go United.
Js987@reddit
United is my choice, because of the number of international destinations they directly service. I avoid American, as their service makes surly United look friendly.
AssassinWench@reddit
Fuck American. They denied me boarding for a flight to China because they didn’t understand the fucking TWOV policy and I will never fly them again. United got me there luckily but I missed a day of my vacation and I’m still trying to get money back and they want to give me basically $100 for an $1000 ticket.
professorfunkenpunk@reddit
Frankly, all the domestic American carriers suck. One time, I was on a trip that had Cathay Pacific to LA and delta to Minneapolis, and getting on delta was the biggest downgrade I’ve ever experienced
TehLoneWanderer101@reddit
My home airport is LAX so I'm near a hub. I like Delta for the free WiFi but I've taken United before and it wasn't bad. Never taken American tho.
Salsalover34@reddit
Delta > American > United
teslaactual@reddit
A while ago maybe southwest but they've TANKED HARD in quality, last couple flights I've done were with delta and I really can't complain with them
koreawut@reddit
I don't have enjoyable experiences on any of them. When I travel, I will travel with the airline of the country to which I am traveling.
Madeitup75@reddit
Delta and Delta. I live in a Delta hub, so all my best and worst experiences are on Delta.
sambolino44@reddit
I have never chosen a flight that wasn’t the cheapest way to get where I was going on time.
CuriosThinker@reddit
Well, I always pick American because I live near a hub. I got their credit card, so I get free bags and earlier boarding. I don’t have a ton of experience with the other two, but I’ve had good Delta flights. They seem to have nice planes. I don’t have a good reason to think United is bad. I just do.
Dear-Ad1618@reddit
I kinda hate them all. American is terrible and United is iffy. I do well on Alaska.
SnooChipmunks2079@reddit
I haven’t flown Delta in decades. Did some work for Delta in ~1991 and every pilot I met was… not very clever.
I do t see a lot of difference between United and American. I’ve flown them both in the last few years. Might slightly prefer United.
Saganhawking@reddit
United by far is my favorite. I try to only fly United.
IainwithanI@reddit
Everyone I know who has flown lately has had a problem with every flight. This has been for about three years. Sometimes it’s minor, but often it’s fairly serious. This is all airlines. That said, with Delta you’re more likely to just have a small delay and with American you may have much more serious problems.
mothertuna@reddit
Never flew on american. Only flew united once as a connecting flight. So id choose delta.
onelittleworld@reddit
They're all pretty much on par, I think. I fly United because I'm Chicago-based and have 1K status with them.
NitinTheAviator@reddit
So to split it up.
For International Flights: United. Flown them and had good experience. Good entertainment selection, good food, and many connections with Star Alliance.
For Domestic Flights: American, I live really close to its hub in Philadelphia (former US Airways hub). Quick and Easy I guess. No bad experiences with them yet. Flew them a lot domestically throughout my life
Significant_Topic822@reddit
Delta. But it is also the most expensive
cheapandjudgy@reddit
Delta is the best of those. American Airlines is my least favorite, but my most traveled because I live in Charlotte.
ycey@reddit
I usually fly Alaska but I think I’ve flown American more than the other 2 and united the next, I don’t think I’ve ever flown delta
CaptainlockheedME262@reddit
On an American flight as I type this. American is the worst by a mile. Though they are getting better. Delta is the best. I rarely fly United but I put them in the middle.
Queen_Aurelia@reddit
I would rather hitchhike than fly American.
CoolDrink7843@reddit
Of the three I would pick Delta. But living in the Pacific NW the only correct answer for the best airline is Alaska.
javiergoddam@reddit
I've never not had Delta miles so I just use Delta.
Otherwise-OhWell@reddit
United is my go to, but I live nearest to O'Hare and Terminal 3 (American) is a hassle to get to/from. Terminal 5 (Delta + all international flights) is worse.
Midway Airport (Delta, maybe American?) is an option for me but it takes longer to get there.
But all are fine when my employer pays for it.
Lets_G0_Pens@reddit
A lot of it depends on where you’re flying honestly! Delta has free Wi-Fi and a lot of their flights which makes them my favorite. With American and United I think it just depends on who has the best flight options and most direct flights to where you wanna go. If you were in a hub city, you’re gonna like whoever calls at their hub.
stellacoachella@reddit
Favorite: Delta they give you snacks and the service was just amazing, almost missed a flight and they accommodated me, gave me a blanket and had movies to watch
Not the best: United although I’ll b flying United from Fresno to Canberra so let’s see… missed a flight once and it was a headache to get on another flight, they are based in Newark and no one was helpful, I called the customer service line and they gave me the worst information ever, it wasn’t until I talk to an actual person face to face they helped me, also their baggage policy is weird… it said NO CARRYONS so I payed for 3 checked bags only to be told I didn’t even need to pay (I got reimbursed)
Worst: American, although I never flew them, my mother had and every time she has they are delayed (always in DFW) and never on time, i see videos of people saying their flight got cancelled and the airline was no help
To add, the best airline in my opinion is Alaska Air, I have never had any trouble with them, I love the staff and they are always on time and keep you updated if anything happens, always have smooth flights with them
To also add, Frontier and Spirit would be a big no no since these airlines charge for EVERYTHING
Allegiant is another budget airline but this one is decent, it flies directly from Fresno to Vegas on 40 minutes and i mean you get what you pay for, $40 one way like what do I expect, always delayed tho
Ananvil@reddit
I've never had a positive experience flying, regardless of airline
Rapptap@reddit
AA goes direct everywhere I need to be. Typical FA staff is friendly.
United out of ORD? FAs hate their life.
Delta is great... If your company is paying.
PeteyVonPants@reddit
I came here just to make sure everyone said American is the worst and was not disappointed. Fuck that airline.
LeResist@reddit
I only fly American but everyone is suggesting Delta but I never fly them because they are so much more expensive than American.
Rhubarb_and_bouys@reddit
American. It's fine until something goes wrong and then they do. not. give. a. shit.
rcuadro@reddit
My favorite is the one with the cheapest fare for my trip. My least favorite the other two :)
ParkMan73@reddit
American used to be my favorite, but that was a long time ago. Now it feels like riding a bus in the sky.
Delta is probably my favorite, but between those three it's not saying a lot. Airplane travel is something you have to do, not want to do.
shthappens03250322@reddit
Delta is the best of those three. American sucks, but United is probably the worst of the bunch.
Southwest is my favorite though.
LeResist@reddit
I only fly American.
JudgmentalRavenclaw@reddit
Fav: delta. The one airline I’ve had zero issues with.
Least: American. Almost ALWAYS end up getting to my destination hours later bc of changes, delays, etc.
Ok_Subject3678@reddit
Delta. Typically short layovers. And decent on time record
Crazyboutdogs@reddit
I fly United mainly. No real reason. They have a hub near me, so I get good flights.
DifferentWindow1436@reddit
Favorite - when United codeshares me onto an ANA flight.
Schlawiner24@reddit
The economy class flight experience is similar with all three airlines. I really like the Delta and United Apps. They are pretty solid, allowing to book change flights easily. American's App is garbage. You still have to call customer service when changing a flight.
Folksma@reddit
YNABDisciple@reddit
Delta the best easy. United my least I guess...I hate both of the others.
SeethingHeathen@reddit
I typically fly United, unless it's a work thing. The like to book us in Southwest.
It's not on your list, but I despise Frontier and will avoid them unless it's an absolute necessity to get somewhere and they're my only option (which has never happened). I'd almost rather drive.
AZJHawk@reddit
Delta is my favorite. I’m in Phoenix, so I don’t fly it very often, but if I can I do. American has a hub here so I fly it more, and it’s fine, I guess. United has been my least favorite. It just feels shabby every time I fly them and the cabin crew always seems surly.
I’d pick any of them over Southwest, but that’s what I fly the most because of flight options. I hate almost every part of the Southwest experience, although their cabin crew is usually decent.
I probably fly 4-5 times a year with Southwest. 2-3 times with American and once each with Delta and United, so not a huge sample size, but enough over the years that I feel pretty confident in my rankings.
Bright_Ices@reddit
Delta is the least bad if you need to transport and/or use medical equipment onboard. That’s my whole answer.
menstrunchbull@reddit
All of them suck. The one that sucks the least is Delta.
LukasJackson67@reddit
Delta favorite
American a far distant third
whyvalue@reddit
Never had issues with American, that's usually what I fly for family trips.
I've only flown United once and had a horror story of an experience. I flew into Newark from out of the country and there was a storm so a bunch of flights got cancelled or delayed. We ended up switching gates 3 times and had to wait hours for a new crew to show up. When we finally left, they took us to the wrong airport (Rockford instead of O'Hare) because the new crew didn't have enough hours to get to ORD. When we got there, there was no one in the airport and we had to wait an hour to inboard the plane. They made us wait another hour in the lobby before telling us "We can't get a bus for another 3 hours so you can call a taxi or wait for the shuttle to ORD." Thankfully I was able to get a ride but there's only so many Ubers available at 4am in Rockford. I understand that delays happen and storms can throw a wrench in things, but I've never heard of a flight going to the wrong airport because of a lack of planning. I know that's not the typical experience, but I'm never giving them my business again, it was fucking ridiculous.
Never flown Delta.
Cpowell1982@reddit
I prefer Delta and how is southwest no considered a major airline?
GotWheaten@reddit
Delta is my fav. Better seating with entertainment screens. Seems roomier in coach. Seldom fly them as they only go a few places directly from Phoenix like LA, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis & Atlanta.
Don’t care for American or Southwest but usually have to fly those out of Phoenix. American has shittier seating and frequent delays.
Southwest sucks because of their seating.
Between Southwest & American, you can go direct to most US cities from Phoenix as well as Mexico and the Caribbean.
Connect-Brick-3171@reddit
my favorite is always the one that transports me where I want to go at the most favorable price. Loyalty is limited.
American comes to me via merger of Agony Airlines into Useless Air. United is best known for beating up a physician passenger. For me, Delta has avoided adverse personal experiences and outrageous publicity so that's the default. But I can take my chances of getting assaulted by employees, stranded in unexpected connections, lost luggage, and other misadventures if it saves me $100.
G00dSh0tJans0n@reddit
Delta but I’ve had fine experiences on all of them. I usually fly southwest but with them starting to charge for bags I might switch
AnchoviePopcorn@reddit
United. I like Star Alliance partner airlines. Polaris is solid.
Dark_Tora9009@reddit
They’re not bad. I do used them a lot but I think I like SkyTeam better but I don’t get as many chances to use them. AirFrance and KLM are fantastic. Maybe I should try Delta, I’ve never actually flown with them!
redditprofile99@reddit
American is the worst by far. Never on time and always cancelling flights.
Suckerforcats@reddit
I can only afford American now but they are the worst. For the last 12 years, my flights end up cancelled or seriously delayed due to "maintenance." Even my father coming to visit two years in a row and both times, he never flew out the day he was supposed to because they had maintenance issues. Used to be one of the best decades ago. I've had a couple work trips on Delta that were good but for personal use, it's a little more expensive.
ericbythebay@reddit
The one with the direct flight. Other than that, they are about the same level of shitty for domestic travel.
mkestrada@reddit
United is probably my favorite only because it's the one that my coworkers recommended for work travel and I get to hold onto the reward miles and status from work trips. Don't have much experience with Delta, but they are typically considered the nicest to my knowledge, and American is usually considered the least nice.
For domestic travel and major international routes, there's not a ton differentiating them, prices are usually pretty similar for similar itinerary and fare class. sometimes within a few dollars for cheaper domestic flights. Honestly, airline allegiance doesn't start to pay off until you've started to spend a lot of money. If you plan on traveling a lot, you can start thinking about the partner network and building status. United + star alliance has really good coverage of East and Southeast Asia, which is why my coworkers recommended it for the locations we tend to travel to. American + One World has good coverage of Europe, etc.
poser765@reddit
The one that signs my paycheck. With that said they are all pretty close to the same with some variation on areas they excel or suck.
ColumbiaWahoo@reddit
Delta > United > American but the margins in between them are small. I’ve found Delta crews to be the most professional and having music while boarding is nice too. United seems to be ok and I never had any good or bad flights with them. American was meh and they were a bit pushy about trying to get people to sign up for their credit card during deplaning.
jayhawk03@reddit
Delta - I believe I had mostly good experiences with them.
American- Not really that many flights with them.
3- United- The most of of the 3 I've flown on. Some positive experiences but some bad ones as well. Lost luggage...almost missing an international flight ( I did lose premium economy) due to Mechanical issues on connecting flight. I had to run through Dulles to make my flight. Then on the way back There was a miscommunication so I had ticket issues and had to run through 2 terminals at O'hare to make my flight.
I prefer to fly Southwest domestically.
Dark_Tora9009@reddit
I don’t think I’ve ever actually flown Delta… I used to hear really positive things about them but lately not as much.
American and United are both mostly ok. I think I’ve historically had better experiences with United but lately they have t been as good. I’m also confusing them with Continental which merged into them and sort of had the same logo.
westgate141pdx@reddit
Delta
Konigwork@reddit
It’s interesting seeing Delta as basically the favorite here! Granted they’d be my choice as well, but as somebody close to Atlanta it makes sense, they’re extremely convenient (albeit pricey) out of here.
I will never willingly fly American Airlines again, however. Their baggage handlers union fucked up getting my luggage to its location twice in the two times I’ve flown with them
TemperMe@reddit
They are carbon copies of each other. Flown all of em and there’s not a single noticeable difference. I’ve been on American the most for points reasons but honestly never had a problem with a single airline in my life
Funnygumby@reddit
My job pays for my fare so I honestly don’t care. I’m in my headphones from the moment I leave my house until I get into my rental or hotel room on the other end. I’m really that invested in the whole experience
PokeCaptain@reddit
Favorite: Delta. Have had the most pleasant experiences with them.
Worst: United. Their computer system almost stranded me in Newark overnight.
Foxfyre25@reddit
The bar is so incredibly low, which is why it's saying something that American is my least favorite.
It's the only company with which I've reviewed status, and the service got WORSE.
I was stranded in dc on my birthday on a perfectly clear day. Mid afternoon flight. No weather, the plane just did not exist. It was here after I got a pity drink from the bartender that I switched to Delta.
They booked me on a flight that hadn't existed for three weeks during the merger with US Air. I had to retrieve my bags and switch to southwest to get home.
Head_World_9764@reddit
None of those : Southwest is the only way to fly
Playful-Park4095@reddit
American. The onboard staff is most likely to be surly, but it's by far the best option out of my airport for direct flights and it's relatively easy to maintain status. Flying as Plat Pro on American gives me a lot of freebies like choosing better seats for free, fairly frequent upgrades, priority boarding, etc.
American is also One World alliance, so my status carries over to Iberia, who I use reasonably often as well.
Delta is my backup.
gia_sesshoumaru@reddit
I always fly Delta. I have never had a bad experience with them. The planes are always clean, the staff is nice, and they have a decent rewards program. I've always enjoyed flying with them. I used to fly American all the time as a teenager but I haven't flown them since. I've heard some bad things about them recently, and I don't enjoy their rewards program at all. I flew United once, and it was fine, but I've heard a lot of bad things since.
SanPadrigo@reddit
Southwest. Even getting rid of their free bag policy I still use them exclusively.
I won’t fly Delta because you’re almost guaranteed a layover in ATL and that airport is stressful af. I’ve never flown United or American because of the association with 9/11.
AnotherPint@reddit
First: Delta. Most consistent, most reliable, best front-line people. Second: United. Best route network, best app, most improved airline in the past 5-7 years. Third: Southwest (although OP didn’t ask, they’re the highest-volume passenger carrier in the country. Less reliable and economical than it used to be Fourth: American, with a weak international route map, stingy and minimal inflight comforts, and low employee morale, goes to enormous effort to evade its responsibilities to customers.
NatAttack50932@reddit
For a very long time Delta was my favorite but United has really stepped up its service out of Newark. I don't mind flying on either of them at the moment and I think I prefer United.
American is bad.
Mountain-Status569@reddit
Delta let me reschedule my flight for free and even credited me the difference when the new flight was cheaper. Even though my original flight was like the super barebones economy fare.
So yeah Delta wins in my book.
Techialo@reddit
All three are equally shitty. Flying is the worst way to travel.
SemanticPedantic007@reddit
Southwest is actually a little larger than United now. The big four are all between 16 and 18 percent of the market.
reflectorvest@reddit
I will pay extra for a delta flight, but I’ll pay even more for it not to be American. United falls somewhere in between.
winteriscoming9099@reddit
Delta’s definitely my favorite. On time, solid customer service, good meals traveling internationally, good range of flights. I do wish my local airport when I’m at school (Chicago) was a delta hub. Really I’d say the difference is small enough where I would determine it by your nearest airport and the amount of flights offered. But I have Delta a step above American and United, both of which are fairly indistinguishable imo
guywithshades85@reddit
My favorite is Delta. I've flown them the most, they usually have direct flights to where I'm going and I've never had issues with them.
Least favorite is American. They've lost my luggage both times I've flown with them. Well, technically they've only lost my luggage once, they found the suitcase a week after the flight in Orlando (I was flying to Denver).
AngryOldGenXer@reddit
Always use American. Mostly because I have family members who worked there.
JadeBeach@reddit
Delta. Have been flying Delta for years, starting with business travel. Now live near a hub. Over several decades, they've only lost luggage twice (in Rome, where everything gets lost). Literally cannot remember the last time a plane was delayed or late.
anneofgraygardens@reddit
I feel like they're all basically the same? The only carrier I've had a bad enough experience with that I'd really avoid going forward is Air Canada. Terrible.
TomsOnlyFriend428@reddit
Delta
cormack16@reddit
Favorite is united. Least is American.
MyHouseisOrange@reddit
Delta because they are at my local airport, have a great customer service and usually their planes are in good condition
sjedinjenoStanje@reddit
Delta's the best. Seemingly largest, most comfortable seats (I'm tall), with outlets at each seat.
I take United a lot because it must fly the routes I typically take. Haven't taken American a lot recently so can't compare. United's decent.
HorseFeathersFur@reddit
Southwest. I hate the other choices
Top-Comfortable-4789@reddit
Delta I’ve had some bad experiences with United.
TheBimpo@reddit
Delta because I live nearest one of their hubs, so it’s almost always the best flight option.
JoeBourgeois@reddit
I don't have a favorite, but American sucks. Never will fly them again.
NFLDolphinsGuy@reddit
Delta’s the best of that bunch.
United is a good alternative.
Old school American Airlines was the best with their extra legroom for everyone but that was decades ago now.
Dark horse, Allegiant too. Probably the best of the ULCCs for me but we have a hublet operation at our airport.
nomadicstateofmind@reddit
Of these three - Delta
Overall - Alaska
mochalatte828@reddit
I don’t know that I have a favorite but I fly American most bc I’m near the hub. I don’t really check bags anymore so I can’t really comment on their bag losses and how they handle it. They’ve been fine I guess
mattenthehat@reddit
United is average, Delta is nice, I don't remember the last time I flew American, if I ever even have.
schonleben@reddit
I fly american the most because they’re currently the only airline serving my hometown, but Delta is probably my favorite. United would be last.
ConstantinopleFett@reddit
I find them pretty interchangeable. United has the best connections from my airport so I try to do all of my flying with them. Just have to pick one and stick with it so you can get points and, if you fly a lot, elite status.
tlonreddit@reddit
I'm a Georgia boy so I naturally lean to Delta, but they have impeccable service, brand new planes, and when I go internationally: the best meal service.
Now, compare that with United, their meal service is awful. Truly, truly terrible.
So, my rankings:
Delta
American
United
CollenOHallahan@reddit
Delta is my home airline, and they are pretty solid. But I use United often while using my credit card points. And United is far better for points redemptions than Delta. Just sucks I gotta stop in Chicago to go anywhere with United.
Cranberry-Electrical@reddit
I prefer Southwest or Alaska
DoublePostedBroski@reddit
Southwest was just bought by a private equity firm so it’s about to get really shitty.
fowmart@reddit
United and Southwest unfortunately enjoy monopolies on my business because Houston.
PenHouston@reddit
Of course as a Houstonian it is United because we have a HUB airport. I find the longer the flight the better the plane and crew regardless of which airline I use. Southwest was my favorite. No frills and no hidden fees, you get on , you get off. Too many complainers ruined the concept so they are becoming like the rest.
c3534l@reddit
I find them all essentially identical.
moonbunnychan@reddit
There's honestly very little difference between them. I fly United the most just because they've got a major hub at my airport and if I wanna go nonstop somewhere, United is often my only choice.
min_mus@reddit
Delta.
toolenduso@reddit
I have no opinion on any of these because I almost always fly southwest and vastly prefer it to anyone else. I will say that my honeymoon flight to Europe happened on American and it was fine.
flying_wrenches@reddit
I work in aviation, everyone is trying to get into delta it seems. Pay, culture, company benefits.
Delta leads in alot of the things people care about..
Flat-Leg-6833@reddit
United only because they and Jet Blue offer the most flights out of my local airport. Find service comparable to Delta or American.
No-Profession422@reddit
Delta if I have to use a domestic carrier.
MarkReditto@reddit
They’re all the same.
questioningtwunk@reddit
I know no one asked me, feel free to downvote, but Americans complaining/being picky on airlines will always be the epitome of privilege and the contrast between the US / third world countries.
You always hear them complaining about seat space, service, etc. it’s beyond me. To me all planes are the same.
Drew707@reddit
Wait until you hear about the UAE. This isn't unique to Americans.
Nozomi_Shinkansen@reddit
I fly domestically several times a month and internationally several times a year on business.
United followed closely by American. Delta is only a last resort, and I have gone out of my way to avoid them.
cluttered-thoughts3@reddit
I despise American. Delta if I’m feeling luxurious and United for my typical travel (near a hub)
ConsiderationCrazy22@reddit
I fly it the least bc it’s so pricey (my airport isn’t a hub), but Delta is the best. I like United a lot too. American sucks.