United operates a larger mainline fleet of 982 aircraft compared to Delta's 924 aircraft, but both maintain similar average fleet ages of 15 years. United is investing heavily in modernization with A321neo and A321XLR deliveries, while Delta has already integrated A321neo aircraft into its fleet.
United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines 2026 — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B
Choose United if you prioritize a larger network with the newest widebody aircraft on the horizon (A321XLR) and cutting-edge premium cabin features. Choose Delta if you prefer an airline with a more modernized narrowbody fleet already in service and proven operational efficiency with newer aircraft already integrated into daily operations.
Compare United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines
Major U.S. airline with extensive global network and competitive pricing
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United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines 2026 — Comparison Data
Structured comparison data for United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines 2026 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
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 2026 — Attribute Category Vocabulary
Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines 2026.
Which airline has a bigger fleet in 2026?
United Airlines operates the larger fleet with 982 mainline aircraft, compared to Delta's 924 aircraft—a difference of 58 additional aircraft. This larger fleet allows United to serve more routes and offer higher frequency in its networks.
Are United and Delta replacing their old aircraft in 2026?
Both airlines are modernizing but at different paces. Delta has already integrated the Airbus A321neo into its fleet, while United is just beginning A321neo deliveries (its first new Airbus in over 20 years) and has A321XLRs on order. Both maintain a 15-year average fleet age.
What is the Airbus A321XLR and why does it matter?
The A321XLR is an ultra-long-range variant of the A321 that can fly transatlantic routes on a single aisle aircraft. United has ordered these aircraft, while Delta has not announced any orders, giving United potential competitive advantage in opening new long-haul markets with lower operating costs.
What new business class features is United launching in 2026?
United is redesigning its Polaris business class with 16-inch 4K OLED screens featuring Bluetooth capability and wireless charging. These premium amenities will debut on United's new long-haul aircraft in 2026.
Which airline has newer aircraft currently in operation?
Delta currently operates a newer fleet in terms of technology integration, as it has already deployed the Airbus A321neo across its operations. United is still transitioning from older A319/A320 aircraft but has acceleration plans with A321neo and A321XLR deliveries beginning in 2026.