Delta Air Lines vs Alaska Airlines
A detailed head-to-head comparison of Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines based on our 100-point scoring system.
Winner
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines — Domestic & International Flights
91/100
Excellent4.3
18,420 reviews
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines — Domestic & International Flights
87/100
Very Good4.2
11,380 reviews
Side-by-Side Comparison
Metric
Delta Air Lines
Alaska Airlines
Overall Score
91/100
87/100
Price
$180.00
$155.00
Customer Rating
4.3/5
4.2/5
Review Count
18,420
11,380
Best For
Best On-Time Performance
Best West Coast Carrier
About Page
Yes
Yes
Contact Info
Yes
Yes
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
Alaska Airlines — Score Breakdown
Flight Quality & Comfort16/20
Price & Value13/15
Route Network12/15
Loyalty Program10/10
Customer Service13/15
Punctuality & Reliability13/15
Baggage Policy10/10
Pros & Cons
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.
Alaska Airlines
Mileage Plan is widely considered the best-value US airline loyalty program for partner award redemptions, particularly for international business and first class.
Strongest route network and schedule frequency on West Coast domestic routes, with broad Hawaii coverage.
Oneworld alliance membership provides global partner earning and redemption access that independent carriers cannot match.
Fleet consolidation transition from Airbus to Boeing-only is still in progress, creating some inconsistency in onboard product across the network.
No seatback screens on most aircraft — entertainment requires a personal device and the Alaska app, which can be inconvenient for less tech-savvy travelers.
Smaller global network than Delta or United means Alaska is less useful for travelers with heavy international itinerary needs outside the Oneworld alliance.
Our Verdict
Delta Air Lines comes out ahead with a score of 91/100 compared to 87/100. Delta Air Lines is best for best on-time performance. However, Alaska Airlines may be a better fit if you prioritize best west coast carrier.
Airline pricing, routes, and policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify details directly with the airline before booking.