United Airlines vs Delta Air Lines
A detailed head-to-head comparison of United Airlines and Delta Air Lines based on our 100-point scoring system.
United Airlines
United Airlines Domestic & International Flights
83/100
Very Good3.8
142,600 reviews
Winner
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines — Domestic & International Flights
91/100
Excellent4.3
18,420 reviews
Side-by-Side Comparison
Metric
United Airlines
Delta Air Lines
Overall Score
83/100
91/100
Price
$170.00
$180.00
Customer Rating
3.8/5
4.3/5
Review Count
142,600
18,420
Best For
Best for Global Routes
Best On-Time Performance
About Page
Yes
Yes
Contact Info
Yes
Yes
United Airlines — Score Breakdown
Flight Quality & Comfort0/20
Price & Value0/15
Route Network24/15
Loyalty Program7/10
Customer Service4/15
Punctuality & Reliability0/15
Baggage Policy0/10
Delta Air Lines — Score Breakdown
Flight Quality & Comfort18/20
Price & Value12/15
Route Network14/15
Loyalty Program9/10
Customer Service14/15
Punctuality & Reliability14/15
Baggage Policy10/10
Pros & Cons
United Airlines
340-destination network and Star Alliance membership deliver the most extensive effective route coverage of any single US carrier choice, critical for complex international itineraries.
MileagePlus miles never expire — a genuine program benefit that allows casual travelers to accumulate value without the pressure of expiration deadlines common in competing programs.
United Polaris business class is one of the strongest premium cabin products on a US legacy carrier, with lie-flat seats and direct-aisle access on most widebody international routes.
3.8/5 customer rating reflects real and persistent service quality issues, particularly on domestic routes where United's ground experience and customer service lag Delta's benchmarks.
$35 first checked bag fee applies in most economy fare classes, adding meaningful cost for travelers who check bags on every trip compared to Southwest's two free bags.
77% on-time rate, while industry-average, means roughly 1 in 4 flights arrives late — a statistic that compounds on connecting international itineraries.
Delta Air Lines
Best on-time performance among US legacy carriers at 86%+ per 2025 DOT data.
Wide global network of 290+ destinations with strong SkyTeam alliance partnerships.
SkyMiles points never expire, reducing pressure to manufacture spending to preserve status.
Average domestic fares around $180 are higher than Southwest and often higher than United on competitive routes.
Basic Economy fares are highly restrictive — no carry-on bag larger than a personal item, no seat selection, last to board.
SkyMiles has faced criticism for devaluing award redemption rates, making aspirational first-class redemptions harder to achieve.
Our Verdict
Delta Air Lines comes out ahead with a score of 91/100 compared to 83/100. Delta Air Lines is best for best on-time performance. However, United Airlines may be a better fit if you prioritize best for global routes.
Airline pricing, routes, and policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify details directly with the airline before booking.