Delta is no longer the top U.S. airline.

When planning long-distance travel, selecting the right airline is crucial.

The travel experience can differ significantly among airlines due to factors such as boarding procedures, amenities, and baggage allowances.

In a recent ranking by WalletHub, the best airlines in the U.S. were determined through a comparison of the nine largest domestic carriers and one regional airline, across 13 metrics in three major categories.

1. Baggage and departures
2. In-flight comfort and cost
3. Safety

The airlines were evaluated based on various metrics, including the number of mishandled baggage reports, the frequency of flight cancellations, the availability of complimentary refreshments, and the occurrence of delays. As a result, each airline received a score out of a possible 100 points.

Delta Air Lines, which had held the top spot for two years, fell to fourth place, surpassed by Alaska Airlines, SkyWest, and Spirit.

Delta remained the most reliable airline, with a low rate of cancellations, delays, mishandled luggage, and denied boardings, while also being one of the most comfortable airlines in terms of in-flight experience.

Alaska Airlines is WalletHub's No. 1 U.S. airline

In WalletHub's analysis, Alaska Airlines earned the highest score of 68.07 out of 100 points.

In 2021, Alaska held the top spot, while Delta ranked No. 1 in 2022 and 2023.

Alaska was ranked third in terms of reliability and comfort by WalletHub, while also being the fourth most affordable airline.

Alaska Airlines provides customers with free in-flight Starbucks, has hubs along the Northwest Coast, and is a member of the Oneworld alliance, which includes American Airlines, Qatar Airlines, and British Airways. As a result, Alaska customers can enjoy special benefits, such as the ability to rebook their flights on other alliance members' airlines when necessary.

Earlier this year, NerdWallet ranked the airline as the best airline and best airline rewards program.

The top U.S. airlines ranked, according to WalletHub

1. Alaska Airlines (68.07 points)
2. SkyWest Airlines (65.96 points)
3. Spirit Airlines (65.69 points)
4. Delta Air Lines (61.56 points)
5. United Airlines (51.96 points)
6. JetBlue Airways(51.6 points)
7. Hawaiian Airlines (48.3 points)
8. American Airlines (46.52 points)
9. Frontier Airlines (43.57 points)
10. Southwest Airlines (36.03 points)

SkyWest Airlines is the second-best airline, according to WalletHub, with a score of 65.96.

SkyWest collaborates with major carriers including Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.

In 2023, it transported 38.6 million passengers to 237 destinations across North America.

According to data from the Department of Transportation, SkyWest was among the top three domestic airlines for on-time performance from February 2023 to January 2024, with 84% of its flights departing as scheduled.

Spirit Airlines received a score of 65.69 and ranked third in WalletHub's report on ultra-low-cost airlines.

In 2024, Spirit Airlines was ranked as the best airline for budget flyers, surpassing Frontier Airlines, another low-cost airline. Spirit's flights cost approximately 5.23 cents per mile, while Frontier's cost 6.03 cents per mile, according to WalletHub.

Spirit Airlines' a la carte pricing model allows it to maintain lower costs compared to other airlines, as your fare only covers your seat, and additional services such as bags and in-flight snacks are charged separately.

While Spirit Airlines may not provide the most comfortable seating experience with limited legroom and no in-flight entertainment, it could still be a suitable option for those looking to save money on flights within the U.S., Caribbean, or Latin America.

Southwest Airlines ranked last on the list for the third consecutive year with 36.03 points. The Texas-based airline performed poorly in metrics such as price, safety measures, mishandled baggage reports, and denied boarding.

According to WalletHub's analysis of 2023 flight data from the Department of Transportation, Southwest Airlines had the lowest percentage of canceled flights, despite ranking last.

Looking to earn extra money beyond your regular job? Enroll in CNBC's online course "How to Earn Passive Income Online" to discover popular passive income streams, starting tips, and inspiring success stories.

Sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to receive expert advice on work, money, and life.