The Best Domestic Airlines According to Readers

This year’s World’s Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2024, as destinations around the world. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

After a rocky 2020, airlines in the U.S. have come soaring back. Carriers across the country are safely flying millions of passengers every day, and the revamped in-flight experience is getting a bit more familiar. As of this writing, masks are still required on board flights in the U.S. However, things are starting to return to normal. Airlines have begun to resume services they had previously cut during the depths of the pandemic and are bringing back more crew members. Consequently, the best domestic airlines, according to iBestTravel readers, are those that have shown empathy and flexibility during these stressful times.

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—sharing their opinions on the top airlines among various categories including cabin comfort, in-flight service, food, customer service, and value.

As voters reflected on their trips over the past few years, many had fond memories of their flights. It might help that one of the top airlines in this year’s World’s Best Awards flies to and within a destination that many consider a vacation paradise. Hawaiian Airlines won accolades this year for its particularly warm service. “Their friendly flight attendants embody the airline’s reputation for ‘aloha,'” said one voter, adding that “flying on Hawaiian makes me feel like I am traveling with my family.” Others gave high marks to the business-class cabin, noting the airline’s long-haul service to destinations like Sydney and Tokyo is particularly comfortable.

1. JetBlue Airways

This now-21-year-old airline still offers the pizazz of a start-up, as readers praise its incredible customer service, extensive route network, expansive legroom (even in coach), and overall value. “I would definitely recommend them,” said one respondent. “Hands down, better than every other airline,” said another past passenger. “They go out of their way to please their passengers,” wrote a third fan, giving high marks for customer service. Notably, after a challenging year for businesses across the travel industry, JetBlue scored higher than any airline ranked in 2020. Even the snacks are part of the allure; “Blue chips, baby!” raved one voter.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 81.38
More information: jetblue.com

2. Hawaiian Airlines

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 81.25
More information: hawaiianairlines.com

3. Alaska Airlines

Score: 80.40
More information: alaskaair.com

4. Southwest Airlines

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 80.00
More information: southwest.com

5. Delta Air Lines

Score: 78.51
More information: delta.com