Top 10 Safest Airlines in the US 2024 Updated

When it comes to air travel, safety is often the top priority for passengers. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or someone planning a rare trip, knowing which airlines are considered the safest can offer peace of mind. In the United States, several airlines have consistently been ranked among the safest, thanks to their stringent safety protocols, modern fleets, and excellent safety records. In this article, we’ll explore the safest airlines in the US for 2024, examining what makes them stand out and why you can trust them with your travel plans.

Why Airline Safety Matters

Airline safety is not just about a smooth flight experience; it’s about ensuring that every aspect of air travel, from takeoff to landing, is conducted with the utmost care. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US sets rigorous standards that airlines must meet. These include regular maintenance of aircraft, comprehensive training for pilots and crew, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Airlines that excel in these areas not only ensure passenger safety but also build trust and reputation in the industry.

Key Factors That Determine Airline Safety

Several factors contribute to the overall safety of an airline. These include:

• Fleet Age and Maintenance: Newer aircraft are often equipped with the latest safety technology, while regular maintenance ensures that planes are always in optimal condition.
• Pilot Training: Well-trained pilots are essential for handling any in-flight issues that may arise. Airlines that invest in continuous training programs tend to have better safety records.
• Safety Culture: An airline’s commitment to safety is reflected in its culture. This includes the company’s policies, the behavior of its staff, and its responsiveness to safety concerns.
• Accident and Incident History: While no airline is immune to incidents, those with fewer and less severe accidents are considered safer.
• Compliance with International Standards: Airlines that adhere to global safety standards, such as those set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), are typically more reliable.

Top 10 Safest Airlines in the US for 2024

1. Spirit Airlines: A Surprising Leader in Safety

Spirit Airlines may surprise some by being a top contender in safety. Despite its reputation as a low-cost carrier, Spirit has made significant strides in improving safety. The airline has invested heavily in modernizing its fleet and implementing stringent safety procedures. These efforts include advanced pilot training and cutting-edge in-flight safety technology. For budget-conscious travelers, Spirit Airlines offers a reliable and safe option.

• Spirit Airlines tops the list as the safest U.S. airline for the second year in a row, according to WalletHub’s data.
• The FAA has awarded Spirit the Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence every year from 2019 to 2024.
• So far in 2024, the NTSB has investigated two incidents on Spirit flights as of Aug. 9, with only one involving serious injury.

2. Alaska Airlines: Excellence in Safety Standards

Alaska Airlines consistently ranks among the safest airlines in the US. Known for its rigorous fleet maintenance and comprehensive pilot training programs, Alaska Airlines prioritizes safety in every aspect of its operations. The airline’s modern aircraft are equipped with the latest safety features, and their exceptional customer service adds an extra layer of security for passengers.

Top 10 Safest Airlines of 2024

• Alaska Airlines may have had the most infamous airline safety issue of the year, in which a door plug flew off midflight, but much of the fallout came to airplane manufacturer, Boeing. That was Alaska Airlines’ only incident this year, according to the NTSB.
• Despite the frightening situation, Alaska has one of the highest ratings for airline safety.
• In AirlineRatings.com’s annual report, Alaska was the only U.S. airline to rank in the top 10 for 2021 and 2022

3. Frontier Airlines: Budget-Friendly Yet Safe

Frontier Airlines, another budget-friendly carrier, has also made impressive advancements in safety. Operating a well-maintained fleet of Airbus aircraft, known for their reliability, Frontier emphasizes pilot training and strict safety protocols. This commitment has earned Frontier Airlines a solid reputation as a safe and affordable choice for domestic travel.

• Colorado-based Frontier Airlines is more similar in size to Hawaiian than the major U.S. airlines like American, Delta, and United.
• It operates about 500 flights per day and, as of early August, hasn’t reported any incidents to the NTBS yet this year. It also didn’t have any events in 2022.
• Its only report in the past two years came in March 2023, when rough air resulted in a flight attendant falling and breaking their hip

4. SkyWest Airlines: Safety Behind the Scenes

SkyWest Airlines might not be a household name, but it’s one of the safest airlines operating regional flights for major US carriers like United, Delta, and American Airlines. SkyWest’s rigorous maintenance program and highly trained pilots contribute to its excellent safety record. Their dedication to safety ensures a secure flight experience, no matter which major airline you book with.

• SkyWest Airlines, headquartered in Utah, is a regional airline with nearly 500 planes in its fleet.
• It operates through carrier partnerships with American, United, Delta, and Alaska Airlines.
• The airline has had a clean record with the NTSB since the middle of 2022. In June 2023, however, airline unions accused SkyWest of trying to evade safety regulations for passenger airlines by operating some flights as charters. The FAA also began investigating the airline’s maintenance program in September

Also Read about The Safest Airlines Worldwide 2024

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5. American Airlines: A Global Giant Committed to Safety

As one of the largest airlines in the world, American Airlines places a high priority on safety. The airline’s extensive network of domestic and international flights is supported by a robust safety management system. American Airlines continuously modernizes its fleet with the latest safety technology and offers ongoing training for pilots and crew members, making it a trusted choice for travelers.

• Even though the FAA closely monitored United earlier this year, a union for American Airlines pilots said in April that scrutiny could have easily been for their airline.
• The union said it noticed “a significant spike in safety- and maintenance-related problems.”
• In terms of incidents involving an NTSB investigation, America has only had one serious occurrence in 2024 as of early August

6. Delta Airlines: Industry Leader in Safety

Delta Airlines is widely regarded as a leader in aviation safety. With one of the most modern fleets in the industry, Delta’s aircraft are equipped with cutting-edge safety features. The airline’s comprehensive safety management system includes rigorous maintenance schedules and continuous training for its pilots and crew. This proactive approach has earned Delta a reputation as one of the safest airlines in the US.

• Delta Air Lines operates at high volume—about 4,000 flights daily and 190 million customers in 2023.
• As of Aug. 9, the airline has reported four serious accidents to the NTSB this year so far.
• In late June, the airline had four incidents within 48 hours, including an engine catching fire shortly after takeoff. No one was hurt in those cases.

7. JetBlue Airways: Balancing Customer Care with Safety

JetBlue Airways is known for its customer-centric approach, but safety is also a top priority. Operating a young fleet of meticulously maintained Airbus aircraft, JetBlue has implemented a robust safety management system. Extensive training for pilots and crew members further enhances the airline’s safety credentials, making JetBlue a popular and safe choice for travelers.

• As of early August 2024, JetBlue has had only one event requiring NTSB investigation this year, which involved a ground collision with another aircraft during deicing. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
• In 2023, the airline experienced three non-serious incidents and two serious accidents, which are still under investigation. JetBlue is known for its comfort and service, contributing to its reputation as a reliable airline.

8. Hawaiian Airlines: Safety in Paradise

Hawaiian Airlines is the premier carrier for flights to and from the Hawaiian Islands, and it boasts a strong safety record. The airline’s modern fleet, including Airbus and Boeing models, is maintained to the highest standards. Hawaiian Airlines places a strong emphasis on pilot training and strict adherence to safety protocols, making it a trusted choice for travelers heading to the Pacific paradise.

• Hawaiian Airlines has not had any incidents requiring NTSB investigation in 2024. It is notable for being the oldest airline in the U.S. without a fatal accident in its 95-year history.
• The airline operates approximately 260 flights daily, primarily within Hawaii, making it smaller in scale compared to other major U.S. carriers.

9. United Airlines: A Legacy of Safety

United Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the US, has a long-standing commitment to safety. The airline operates a diverse fleet of advanced aircraft, supported by a comprehensive safety management system. Regular maintenance checks and continuous training for pilots and crew members reinforce United’s reputation as a reliable and safe choice for both domestic and international flights.

• United Airlines faced increased FAA oversight in March 2024 due to incidents involving lost wheels and skidding off runways. This scrutiny limited the airline’s ability to add new routes.
• The airline’s CEO has committed to improving safety standards. As of mid-May 2024, United was cleared to resume adding new aircraft and routes after addressing safety concerns.

The Safest Airlines Worldwide 2024

10. Southwest Airlines: Affordable, Friendly, and Safe

Southwest Airlines is a favorite among travelers for its low fares and friendly service, but it also has a strong safety record. The airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft is known for its reliability and safety features. Southwest’s rigorous maintenance program and ongoing training for pilots and crew members ensure that safety is a top priority, making it a preferred option for travelers across the US.

• Southwest Airlines has the lowest safety score among the top 10, and it is currently under FAA audit following several close calls, including a May incident where a flight entered a Dutch roll due to tail damage.
• Despite these challenges, the airline has maintained a strong operational record, with no serious injuries reported in recent incidents.

Conclusion

When it comes to air travel, safety is paramount. The US is fortunate to have a wide range of airlines that prioritize safety through rigorous maintenance, advanced technology, and comprehensive training programs. From budget-friendly options like Spirit and Frontier to industry giants like American and Delta, each of these airlines offers a secure and comfortable travel experience. When booking your next flight, consider these top 10 safest airlines in the US for peace of mind on your journey.