Delta consistently ranks higher in customer satisfaction with a 4.2/5 rating versus United's 3.8/5, while United offers more frequent transatlantic routes and competitive pricing on premium economy seats. Delta maintains a newer fleet averaging 12.8 years old compared to United's 14.1 years, contributing to better reliability metrics.
United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose Delta Air Lines if you prioritize reliability, customer service, and a newer aircraft experience—its 81.5% on-time performance, higher satisfaction ratings, and fleet modernization justify slightly higher fares. Choose United Airlines if you need extensive international connectivity, prefer lower baggage fees ($35 vs $38), and value competitive pricing on transatlantic and premium routes.
Compare United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines
Major U.S. carrier with 800+ aircraft and most extensive international route network.
Major U.S. carrier with 900+ aircraft and strongest on-time performance in the industry.
DOT Complaint Rate (per 100,000 passengers)
United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines — Comparison Data
Structured comparison data for United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines with 162 attributes.
Business Class Lie-Flat Seats (Long-Haul)
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)
United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines.
Which airline is more reliable—United or Delta?
Delta is more reliable with an 81.5% on-time arrival rate versus United's 77.2% (2024 data). Delta also has a newer fleet averaging 12.8 years old compared to United's 14.1 years, and receives 42% fewer DOT complaints (1.67 vs 2.14 per 100,000 passengers). For time-sensitive travel, Delta's track record is superior.
United offers lower baggage fees ($35 vs $38 for first checked bag) and typically competitive pricing on basic economy and premium cabin fares. However, Delta sometimes offers better premium cabin fares due to fleet modernization reducing maintenance costs. Overall pricing is comparable, but United edges out on baggage and budget routes while Delta matches or beats on premium routes.
Which airline has better customer service ratings?
Delta ranks significantly higher with a 4.2/5 customer satisfaction rating versus United's 3.8/5 according to 2024 J.D. Power studies. Delta's higher rating correlates with better on-time performance, newer aircraft, and fewer service complaints. United has made service improvements but lags Delta across most customer satisfaction metrics.
Which airline flies to more international destinations?
United serves 342 international destinations compared to Delta's 325—giving United a 17-destination advantage. This makes United stronger for connecting to less-served markets, particularly in Europe and Asia. Delta maintains a quality-over-quantity approach with stronger service to major hubs.
Which airline's frequent flyer program is better?
Both MileagePlus (United) and SkyMiles (Delta) offer 1 mile per dollar base earning rates. Delta's program stands out with elite status benefits including 5% fuel surcharge waivers and systemwide upgrades. United's program offers competitive award availability (12-15% better on premium routes) but requires more strategic planning. Choice depends on whether you prefer elite perks (Delta) or award redemption flexibility (United).