Delta operates a larger fleet (900+ aircraft vs 850+) and maintains higher on-time performance (83.5% vs 81.2%), while United carries more passengers annually (180M vs 175M) but struggles with customer satisfaction ratings. Both are major US carriers with distinct operational strengths and weaknesses.
Delta Air Lines vs United Airlines — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose Delta if you prioritize reliability, on-time arrivals (83.5% vs 81.2%), and higher customer satisfaction scores — Delta consistently outperforms in operational metrics and has fewer complaints per passenger. Choose United if you value passenger volume and network breadth, as they carry more annual passengers (180M) and operate a competitive global route network, though expect slightly longer delays and lower satisfaction ratings.
Compare Delta Air Lines vs United Airlines
Major U.S. carrier with 900+ aircraft and strongest on-time performance in the industry.
Major U.S. carrier with 800+ aircraft and most extensive international route network.
Average Complaint Rate per 100k passengers (2024)
Delta Air Lines vs United Airlines — Comparison Data
Structured comparison data for Delta Air Lines vs United Airlines with 162 attributes.
Customer Satisfaction Score (J.D. Power 2025)
Premium Cabin Seat Pitch (Business/Polaris)
Average Domestic Round-Trip Ticket Price
Customer Satisfaction Score (J.D. Power 2024)
DOT Complaints Per 100,000 Passengers (2024)
J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Score (2024)
Business Class Lie-Flat Seats (Long-Haul)
Delta Air Lines vs United Airlines — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Delta Air Lines vs United Airlines.
Which airline has better on-time performance?
Delta Air Lines leads with 83.5% on-time arrivals compared to United's 81.2% (2024 DOT data). This 2.3 percentage point gap means Delta flights are statistically more likely to arrive on schedule, a significant advantage for business travelers and time-sensitive connections.
Which airline has fewer customer complaints?
Delta receives 2.1 complaints per 100,000 passengers versus United's 2.8 per 100,000 (2024 DOT statistics). Delta's lower complaint rate reflects better operational execution, fewer overbooking incidents, and higher customer satisfaction scores (76 vs 73 ACSI).
United Airlines carries approximately 180 million passengers annually, exceeding Delta's 175 million. However, Delta's higher on-time performance and customer satisfaction suggest it delivers a better experience despite lower volume.
Are baggage fees the same between both airlines?
Yes, both carriers charge $38 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag. However, elite frequent flyer members (Diamond/Gold on Delta, 1K/Gold on United) receive complimentary checked bags, incentivizing loyalty program enrollment.
Which airline has a better frequent flyer program?
Delta's SkyMiles program has 118 million members with competitive award availability and transfer partners, while United's MileagePlus has 106 million members. Delta members report slightly better redemption rates, though both programs offer valuable benefits for elite tiers.