United vs Delta 2026: Which Airline Is Better?

Delta leads on operational reliability (83% on-time vs United's 80%), hub network breadth, and customer satisfaction. United leads on international routes (strongest transpacific coverage of any US carrier), Star Alliance partner award redemptions (ANA, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines), and Chase credit card ecosystem integration. Both airlines have competitive Business class products (United Polaris vs Delta One) and premium transatlantic routes. The right choice depends on your home city and primary travel corridors — if you're in Atlanta or the Northeast, Delta is the natural fit; if you're in Chicago, Houston, Denver, or the Bay Area, United dominates.