Delta consistently ranks higher in on-time performance (83.5% vs 81.2%) and customer satisfaction, while United offers competitive pricing and a larger network with more international routes. Delta's operational efficiency comes at a premium price point, whereas United provides better value for budget-conscious travelers.
United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose Delta if you prioritize reliability, comfort, and superior customer service—you'll pay 11% more but experience fewer cancellations and better overall satisfaction ratings. Choose United if you value competitive pricing, extensive international connectivity, and network breadth, making it ideal for budget travelers and those needing global route flexibility.
Compare United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines
Major U.S. airline with extensive global network and competitive pricing
Premium U.S. airline leading in operational reliability and customer satisfaction
Customer Satisfaction Score (J.D. Power 2024)
United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines — Comparison Data
Structured comparison data for United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines with 158 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
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.
United Airlines is 11.5% cheaper, with average domestic tickets at $312 compared to Delta's $348. However, Delta's higher prices reflect better on-time performance (83.5% vs 81.2%) and superior customer satisfaction ratings, which some travelers view as justified value.
Delta leads with 83.5% on-time performance versus United's 81.2%. Delta also has a complaint ratio of 1.89 per 100,000 passengers compared to United's 2.41—meaning you're 27% less likely to file a complaint with Delta based on 2024 DOT data.
United Airlines serves 137 international destinations globally, compared to Delta's 120. This makes United ideal for travelers needing diverse routing options and connectivity to emerging markets, particularly in Asia and South America.
Yes, both airlines charge $35 for the first checked baggage on domestic flights. However, Delta offers better baggage handling (lower damage claims) and more frequent compensation approvals when baggage issues occur.
Delta's SkyMiles and United's MileagePlus are comparable, both with 5 elite tiers. Delta typically offers better premium cabin access and easier elite status earning, while United members report higher award redemption rates on off-peak travel. Choose based on your preferred domestic hubs (Delta: Atlanta, Minneapolis; United: Chicago, Houston).