This Budget Airline Takes Top Spot for Safety in 2024

With the recent Boeing safety scare on every traveler’s mind, choosing an airline can feel daunting. WalletHub, a financial and consumer website, recently released its study of the best airlines for the coming year, including the safest option for fliers. 

Using flight data from last year, the study compared the nine largest US airlines across thirteen categories, considering factors like mishandled baggage, aviation incidents, and overall safety. The study also tested regional carrier SkyWest against the same criteria.

According to the study, the top five safest airlines are:

1. Spirit Airlines
2. Alaska Airlines
3. Frontier
4. SkyWest Airlines
5. American Airlines
   
   Spirit Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, emerged as the carrier with the fewest aviation accidents. They operate a young all-Airbus fleet with an average age under ten years, tying with Alaska Airlines for youngest fleet in the study. Bonus: Spirit was also the most affordable airline in the study. 
   
   For travelers seeking a comfortable in-flight experience, Delta and JetBlue topped the charts for amenities and overall comfort. Delta also secured the top spot for reliability, with the fewest delays, cancellations, denied boardings, and instances of mishandled luggage.