2024 Top Airlines to Consider Flying With

How you arrive at your favorite airline may depend on several factors, including price, amenities, safety, or rewards bonuses. For domestic airlines, there are so many to choose from, and in many cases, making comparisons is difficult because of the vast options. Today, I highlight the best domestic airlines to start 2024. These are the best rated by WalletHub, which ranks airlines from budget-friendly to pet friendly.

WalletHub says Delta Airlines has been the most reliable airline for the last few years. It comes in as the "Best Overall" airline. This calculation is based on the airline having the least delays, mishandled luggage, and other issues that would negatively impact passengers. The airline has won the Platinum award for operational excellence for the third time in a row. The airline has established itself as a solid competitor, reflecting its popularity. Popularity aside, safety is an important category WalletHub reviews as well.

Envoy Air is a lesser-known airline, but it is one of the safest. Envoy is technically owned by American Airlines but is a regional carrier. It is an industry leader in airline pilot training and regularly passes safety audits (which assess flight operations, ground handling, security management, and maintenance). The long-standing airline is a commercial airline that has not had fatalities in the last five years (that are due to aircraft). Envoy has a strong safety record and is known for its fleet quality. Spirit Airlines is rated top for safety among budget airlines, and safety is not the only category in which Spirit earned high marks.

Spirit Airlines has consistently provided the most affordable prices to its passengers. Average domestic ticket prices for Spirit flights are around $98, and prices are most valuable around April. Standard tickets only guarantee passengers a randomized seat on the plane. Spirit is the budget airline for travelers who are okay with paying for beverages or drinks, a little less seat room, and no in-flight entertainment. Companionship would be necessary on a flight such as that, so what if you're traveling with a furry friend?

SkyWest Airlines and Envoy Air are the top options for flying with pets/animals. The Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that these domestic airlines have no reported animal incidents even after transporting 10,000 animals annually.

Airline travel is essential for business, vacation, migration, and many other aspects of society. Airlines have increased pressure to provide passengers with comfortable, safer, and convenient service. We must periodically review our preferred airline to ensure they have high marks in the categories that matter to us.