Air travel in the United States is a major part of daily life, with millions of people boarding flights every year. Many travelers often wonder, what is the most used airline in the USA, and which carriers dominate the skies. The answer depends on factors such as passenger volume, number of routes, customer service, and overall accessibility.

The U.S. airline industry has grown into one of the largest in the world, offering countless options for domestic and international travel.

Airlines compete based on price, comfort, and customer experience, but a few stand out as the most frequently used. Knowing which airlines dominate helps travelers make informed choices when booking tickets.

This article will explore the 10 best and most used airlines in the USA, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and overall popularity. Each section highlights essential details, followed by pros and cons to help you better understand what each carrier offers.

What Is The Most Used Airline In The USA?

1. American Airlines – Most Used Airline in the USA

American Airlines consistently ranks as the most used airline in the United States, serving millions of passengers annually. Its extensive domestic and international routes make it a favorite for both business and leisure travelers. With hubs in major cities like Dallas, Miami, and Charlotte, American Airlines offers unmatched connectivity.

The airline is also known for its AAdvantage loyalty program, which provides benefits such as upgrades and mileage redemption. Business travelers especially value the airline for its frequent flight schedules and premium cabin offerings. The ability to reach smaller regional airports also boosts its popularity.

Despite its popularity, some travelers feel the airline could improve customer service consistency. However, its sheer size, fleet, and reach make it the most accessible airline for many Americans. Its dominance is especially visible during holiday travel seasons when demand is at its highest.

Pros:

• Extensive routes

• Strong loyalty program

• Many hubs

• Frequent flights

• Global reach

• Business class options

• Regional access

Cons:

• Inconsistent service

• Flight delays

• Price fluctuations

2. Delta Air Lines – Reliable National Leader

Delta Air Lines is another top contender, often praised for its reliability and customer satisfaction. It carries millions of passengers annually, with hubs in Atlanta, Detroit, and Minneapolis. Many travelers prefer Delta for its excellent on-time performance and strong safety record.

The airline has invested heavily in upgrading its fleet with modern aircraft. Its customer service and in-flight experience often rank above competitors, making it a favorite for frequent flyers. Delta’s SkyMiles loyalty program is highly valued and offers benefits like lounge access and global partnerships.

Delta is especially popular with corporate travelers who need dependable schedules and comfort. However, ticket prices can sometimes be higher compared to low-cost carriers. Despite this, its reputation as a reliable airline ensures strong passenger loyalty.

Pros:

• Reliable flights

• Strong service

• Modern fleet

• Great lounges

• SkyMiles benefits

• Global alliances

• Corporate friendly

Cons:

• Higher prices

• Limited budget options

• Hub congestion

3. Southwest Airlines – Budget-Friendly Choice

Southwest Airlines has built its reputation as the most budget-friendly and accessible airline in the United States. With its “Bags Fly Free” policy, it attracts millions of cost-conscious travelers every year. Its point-to-point route system is designed to reduce delays and maximize efficiency.

Known for its friendly staff and no hidden fees, Southwest has a loyal following. The airline also allows free flight changes, which makes it popular among flexible travelers. Its Rapid Rewards loyalty program ensures regular customers get rewarded.

Although Southwest does not have assigned seating, many passengers appreciate its simplified boarding process. However, the lack of premium services like business class may deter some high-end travelers. Still, its affordability ensures that it remains among the top airlines in passenger volume.

Pros:

• Free bags

• No hidden fees

• Friendly staff

• Low fares

• Flexible changes

• Wide domestic reach

• Efficient system

Cons:

• No first class

• Basic amenities

• No international luxury

4. United Airlines – Global Connectivity

United Airlines is one of the largest U.S. carriers, well known for its extensive international network. With major hubs in Chicago, Denver, and Newark, it connects passengers to destinations across the globe. For international travelers, United is often a top choice.

The airline has a strong loyalty program called MileagePlus, offering benefits for frequent flyers. United also participates in the Star Alliance, expanding its global connectivity. Business travelers especially value its Polaris business class for long-haul flights.

While United has faced criticism for customer service in the past, recent improvements have boosted its reputation. Travelers who value international options and a wide domestic network frequently use United. Its role in transatlantic and transpacific travel makes it indispensable.

Pros:

• Global routes

• Star Alliance

• Polaris class

• Major hubs

• Strong loyalty

• Frequent flights

• Business traveler appeal

Cons:

• Service issues

• Delays common

• Price variability

5. Alaska Airlines – West Coast Favorite

Alaska Airlines is the most used regional favorite on the West Coast but also serves nationwide. Known for excellent customer service, it often ranks among the top in passenger satisfaction surveys. It is especially popular in states like California, Oregon, and Washington.

Its Mileage Plan loyalty program is considered one of the most rewarding in the industry. Alaska Airlines also partners with major global carriers, allowing passengers to redeem miles across different networks. Its service quality has made it stand out despite being smaller than legacy carriers.

The airline has steadily expanded beyond the West Coast, reaching more destinations across the U.S. While it may not match the scale of American or Delta, its reliability and customer-first approach have secured loyal passengers. However, fewer international routes remain a limitation.

Pros:

• Great service

• Rewarding program

• West Coast hubs

• Partner airlines

• Comfortable seating

• On-time record

• Customer loyalty

Cons:

• Limited international

• Smaller fleet

• Fewer hubs

6. JetBlue Airways – Customer-Oriented Experience

JetBlue is widely recognized for its customer-oriented experience and comfort. Passengers frequently praise its roomy seating, free Wi-Fi, and quality in-flight entertainment. For those who value comfort at reasonable prices, JetBlue is a standout choice.

Its TrueBlue loyalty program is flexible and allows points pooling with family members. The airline also operates Mint class, a premium service offering lie-flat seats on select routes. JetBlue’s focus on customer experience makes it one of the fastest-growing airlines in the U.S.

Although JetBlue’s network is not as extensive as larger carriers, it continues expanding into international markets, especially in the Caribbean. Travelers who prioritize comfort often choose JetBlue over legacy airlines. Still, fewer destinations compared to American or Delta can be limiting.

Pros:

• Roomy seating

• Free Wi-Fi

• Great entertainment

• Mint class

• Flexible rewards

• Family-friendly

• Caribbean routes

Cons:

• Limited network

• Higher fares

• Fewer hubs

7. Spirit Airlines – Ultra-Low-Cost Option

Spirit Airlines is the most recognized ultra-low-cost carrier in the United States. It offers rock-bottom fares, attracting millions of passengers annually. Travelers pay for extras like bags and seat selection, but the base ticket price is highly competitive.

Its business model appeals to cost-conscious travelers who want basic transportation without frills. Spirit has also improved its customer service reputation in recent years. Its network covers major U.S. cities and popular vacation destinations.

While Spirit is not for everyone, its role in making flying affordable cannot be ignored. Families, students, and budget travelers make up the bulk of its passenger base. However, its lack of amenities often frustrates those looking for comfort.

Pros:

• Very cheap fares

• Many destinations

• Frequent deals

• Vacation routes

• Growing network

• Good accessibility

• Improved service

Cons:

• Many fees

• Limited comfort

• Basic amenities

8. Frontier Airlines – Expanding Budget Carrier

Frontier Airlines is another budget-friendly carrier that has rapidly expanded its reach. Known for its animal-themed aircraft tails, Frontier attracts millions with its ultra-low fares. Its frequent promotions appeal strongly to budget-conscious travelers.

The airline has hubs in Denver and Orlando, providing easy access to popular vacation spots. It has also embraced a point-to-point system, similar to Southwest, which improves efficiency. Families often use Frontier for affordable holiday trips.

However, like Spirit, Frontier charges extra for bags and seating. While it may not offer premium experiences, its affordability ensures its continued growth in passenger numbers. It appeals mainly to travelers who value price above all else.

Pros:

• Ultra-low fares

• Vacation hubs

• Efficient network

• Expanding routes

• Family deals

• Recognizable branding

• Easy booking

Cons:

• Extra fees

• Basic comfort

• Few amenities

9. Hawaiian Airlines – Island Connectivity

Hawaiian Airlines plays a unique role as the main airline for Hawaii travel. It connects the islands to the mainland U.S. and also serves routes to Asia and the Pacific. For anyone traveling to Hawaii, it is often the preferred choice.

The airline is praised for its hospitality, themed service, and comfortable cabins. It also provides complimentary meals on long-haul flights, which many passengers appreciate. Hawaiian’s loyalty program allows travelers to redeem points across its network.

Though its reach is more limited compared to larger airlines, it dominates the Hawaii market. Its combination of cultural touchpoints and service makes it stand out. However, reliance on vacation demand can sometimes affect consistency.

Pros:

• Hawaii focus

• Complimentary meals

• Friendly service

• Pacific routes

• Comfortable cabins

• Reward program

• Island connections

Cons:

• Limited reach

• Price variability

• Seasonal demand

10. Allegiant Air – Regional Affordability

Allegiant Air targets smaller cities with affordable regional connections. Its model focuses on underserved airports, making air travel accessible to more communities. This unique strategy ensures millions of passengers choose Allegiant each year.

The airline frequently offers vacation packages, combining flights with hotels and rental cars. This makes it a convenient option for family vacations and budget travelers. Allegiant’s loyalty program, Allways Rewards, provides extra value for frequent flyers.

While its flight frequency is lower than larger carriers, Allegiant fills a unique gap in the U.S. airline market. Passengers who live outside major hubs find it especially valuable. However, limited flight schedules can sometimes cause inconvenience.

Pros:

• Affordable fares

• Vacation packages

• Regional airports

• Convenient deals

• Easy booking

• Expanding network

• Family-friendly

Cons:

• Few flights

• Limited hubs

• No luxury

What Is The Most Used Airline In The USA FAQs

1. What is the most used airline in the USA?
The most used airline in the USA is American Airlines, based on passenger volume and network size.

2. Which airline is the most reliable in the USA?
Delta Air Lines is considered the most reliable, with excellent on-time performance.

3. What is the cheapest airline in the USA?
Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines offer the cheapest fares but come with many add-on fees.

4. Which U.S. airline has the best loyalty program?
Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan is widely regarded as the best loyalty program.

5. Which airline is best for international travel from the USA?
United Airlines offers the widest international network, especially across the Atlantic and Pacific.

6. What airline is best for families?
Southwest Airlines is family-friendly with free bags and flexible changes.

7. What airline is best for luxury travelers?
Delta and United, with their premium cabins, are excellent for luxury and business travelers.

Conclusion

The U.S. airline industry offers diverse choices, each catering to different travel needs. From budget carriers like Spirit and Frontier to full-service giants like American, Delta, and United, travelers can select based on price, comfort, or reliability. Each airline has unique strengths, making it the most used option for specific passenger groups.

For families, Southwest remains a top pick, while international travelers may prefer United. Comfort seekers often lean toward JetBlue, while Alaska appeals to loyal West Coast passengers.

In the end, American Airlines stands as the most used airline in the USA, but the right choice depends on your travel style. Whether affordability, reliability, or comfort is your priority, there is an airline suited to your journey.

Call to Action: Next time you book a trip, compare routes, fares, and benefits from these top airlines to find the one that best meets your travel needs. Choosing wisely ensures you get the most value and comfort from your flight experience