The personal-finance website WalletHub has just announced its annual list of the best U.S. airlines. In addition to comparing the nine largest national airlines in the United States and two regional carriers, WalletHub also revealed the most reliable airline, the most comfortable airline, the most affordable airline, the best airline for pets and the safest airline.
WalletHub came up with the list by collecting and analyzing flight data from the U.S. Department of Transportation and using a strategic methodology that compared 14 key metrics ranging from cancellation and delay rates to baggage mishaps and in-flight comfort. The analysis also considered costs in relation to in-flight amenities.
“WalletHub’s analysis is a comprehensive one, based on a methodology and metrics selected by our analysts along with academic experts. Our goal was to go beyond price comparison tools and identify the best airlines in terms of overall service quality and functional performance,” says Wallethub analyst Jill Gonzalez. “While price is of course essential, finding the most affordable airline is extremely easy. WalletHub's report goes a step further and examines other aspects of flying that sometimes go overlooked, to help consumers make more informed decisions.”
Delta Air Lines topped Wallethub’s list for the second year in a row. “Some of the main factors that contributed to Delta being the winner include the lack of denied boardings in the past year, the lack of animal related incidents and the fact that it has no fatal injuries in aviation accidents,” says Gonzalez. “The availability of leg room, entertainment options and complimentary refreshments added to the airline topping the list.”
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