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Alaska Airlines vs Delta
Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines are two of the most popular airlines in the United States. Both airlines have loyal customers who swear by their services, but which one is better?
In this article, we will compare Alaska Airlines vs Delta in terms of destinations, fleet, customer service, in-flight experience, and more.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the similarities and differences between these two airlines.
Delta is a large airline that serves cities and countries all over the world, whereas Alaska Airlines is a smaller company that mainly serves the Western United States and surrounding countries.
Despite their differences in size, both airlines are known for their solid customer service and in-flight experience.
Delta has a wider variety of food choices on its menu, including options from world-renowned chefs, whereas Alaska Airlines has a smaller number of menu choices. Delta also has monitors on every seat in their planes for entertainment, whereas Alaska Airlines only has monitors in their First Class sections.
Recently, Delta Air Lines has been expanding its service to Alaska, taking on Alaska Airlines in its home state. One of the big winners in the new service expansion is Anchorage, which will see plenty of nonstop service to the lower 48 contiguous United States. Keep scrolling to learn more!
The other Alaska destinations getting service this summer are Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka. With this expansion, the competition between Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines is heating up, making it more important than ever to compare the two airlines.
Alaska Airlines vs Delta: Fleet Size
When it comes to fleet size, Delta is the clear winner. As of 2023, Delta has a fleet of over 800 aircraft, consisting of both Boeing and Airbus planes. In comparison, Alaska Airlines has a smaller fleet of around 330 aircraft, with most of them being Boeing 737s.
One advantage of Delta’s larger fleet is that it can offer a wider range of routes and destinations. Delta serves twice as many destinations as Alaska Airlines, including several additional continents. This means that if you’re looking to travel internationally, Delta may be the better option.
However, Alaska Airlines’ smaller fleet has its own benefits. With a more focused route network, Alaska Airlines can offer more direct flights and better connections within the Western United States. Additionally, Alaska Airlines has recently expanded its fleet with the acquisition of new Boeing 737 MAX planes, which offer improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
Overall, while Delta has a larger fleet and serves more destinations, Alaska Airlines’ smaller fleet allows for a more focused and efficient travel experience within the Western United States.
Alaska Airlines vs Delta: Route Network
Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines have extensive route networks that cover many destinations worldwide. However, there are some differences between the two airlines when it comes to their routes.
Delta Air Lines has a larger route network than Alaska Airlines, serving more destinations in the United States and worldwide. Delta serves 326 destinations, including 99 international routes in 57 countries. 69.6% of its route network is domestic. Delta’s primary hubs are Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, and Salt Lake City.
On the other hand, Alaska Airlines is a smaller airline focused on mainly serving the Western United States and surrounding countries.
Alaska Airlines serves more than 115 destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Belize. It is part of the Oneworld Alliance, which allows it to have partnerships with other airlines to expand its reach.
Despite the differences in the number of destinations served, both airlines offer frequent flights to many popular destinations.
Delta’s recent expansion into Alaska has allowed it to compete with Alaska Airlines on routes to and from Alaska. In terms of the in-flight experience, both airlines offer solid customer service and amenities, such as Wi-Fi, entertainment, and food and beverage options.
Delta has a larger fleet of planes, including many larger planes, such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A330, which allows it to serve more passengers on certain routes.
Overall, while Delta has a larger route network, Alaska Airlines offers a more focused service to the Western United States and surrounding countries. Both airlines offer quality service and amenities, making them good choices for travelers.
Alaska Airlines vs Delta: On-time Performance
When it comes to on-time performance, both Alaska Airlines and Delta have been recognized for their reliability. In 2022, Delta was named the most on-time airline by Cirium, with an on-time arrival percentage of over 84%.
According to a report by Insider, Delta ranked second in the US for on-time arrivals, with a score of 83.5%. Meanwhile, Alaska Airlines has consistently ranked among the top airlines for on-time performance, with an average delay of only 4 minutes.
While Delta may have a slightly higher on-time arrival percentage, Alaska Airlines has a reputation for being consistent and reliable.
Alaska Airlines also has a user-friendly system for earning miles and redeeming awards, making it a popular choice for frequent flyers.
It’s worth noting that on-time performance can vary depending on a variety of factors, including weather, air traffic control, and maintenance issues.
However, both Alaska Airlines and Delta have demonstrated a commitment to keeping their flights on schedule and minimizing delays whenever possible.
Alaska Airlines vs Delta: Customer Satisfaction
When it comes to customer satisfaction, both Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines have received high praise from their customers.
According to the J.D. Power 2022 North America Airline Satisfaction Study, Alaska Airlines ranked first in overall satisfaction among traditional carriers with a score of 876 out of 1,000. Delta Air Lines was close behind with a score of 862.
Alaska Airlines has also been recognized for its pricing transparency during the booking process, receiving the highest score in this category from Consumer Reports readers.
Additionally, the airline has a reputation for excellent customer service and has won numerous awards for its loyalty program, Mileage Plan.
Delta Air Lines, on the other hand, has been praised for its operational performance, ranking first in both fewest cancellations and involuntary bumps and second in fewest delays, according to Forbes.
The airline has also invested heavily in its in-flight experience, offering amenities such as free messaging, seatback entertainment, and complimentary snacks and drinks.
Overall, both Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines have a strong track record of customer satisfaction, with each airline excelling in different areas.
Whether you prioritize pricing transparency and customer service or operational performance and in-flight amenities, both airlines are excellent choices for your next flight.
Delta vs Alaska Airlines: Pricing and Fees
When it comes to pricing and fees, Alaska Airlines and Delta offer similar rates for their main cabin fares. However, there are some differences to keep in mind.
Alaska Airlines offers a generous baggage policy, allowing passengers to check two bags for free on all fares.
Delta, on the other hand, charges for checked bags on most fares, with the exception of First Class and Delta One ticket. Passengers purchasing these tickets can check up to two bags for free.
When it comes to award redemptions, Delta’s SkyMiles are valued slightly higher than Alaska’s Mileage Plan.
Delta values their miles at 1.5 cents apiece, while Alaska values theirs at 1.2 cents. However, Delta does not publish award charts, making it difficult to plan and compare redemption rates.
Both airlines charge fees for seat selection on basic economy fares. Alaska charges $5 for advance seat selection, while Delta charges $30 for preferred seats and $35 for extra legroom seats.
It’s also important to note that Alaska Airlines offers a price guarantee, which means that if you find a lower fare on the same flight within 24 hours of booking, they will refund the difference. Delta does not offer a similar guarantee.
Overall, while Delta may offer slightly higher redemption rates, Alaska’s generous baggage policy and price guarantee make it a strong contender for cost-conscious travelers.
Delta Airlines vs Alaska Airlines: In-flight Amenities
Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines offer a range of in-flight amenities to make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Let’s take a closer look at what each airline offers.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines offers a range of in-flight amenities, including:
- Complimentary soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water on all flights
- Complimentary beer and wine on flights to and from Hawaii, and on flights between the West Coast and Alaska
- Complimentary meals or snacks on all flights, depending on the length of the flight and time of day
- Personal device entertainment on most flights, with a selection of movies, TV shows, and music
- Power outlets and USB ports at every seat on most flights
- Wi-Fi on all flights, with a range of options to suit your needs
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines also offers a range of in-flight amenities, including:
- Complimentary soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water on all flights
- Complimentary beer, wine, and spirits on international flights and select domestic flights
- Complimentary meals or snacks on all flights, depending on the length of the flight and time of day
- Personal device entertainment on most flights, with a selection of movies, TV shows, and music
- Power outlets and USB ports at every seat on most flights
- Wi-Fi on all flights, with a range of options to suit your needs
Alaska Airlines vs Delta – Which Airline Wins?
When it comes to in-flight amenities, both Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines offer similar options.
However, Delta Air Lines offers complimentary spirits on international flights and select domestic flights, which may be a deciding factor for some travelers.
Ultimately, the choice between the two airlines will depend on your personal preferences and travel needs.
Alaska Air vs Delta: Frequent Flyer Programs
Alaska Airlines and Delta both offer frequent flyer programs that reward customers for their loyalty. Here’s a breakdown of each program:
Alaska Mileage Plan
Named the best frequent flyer program of 2022 by WalletHub, Alaska Mileage Plan offers a variety of rewards for its members.
Customers can earn miles by flying with Alaska Airlines or its partner airlines, or by making purchases with the Alaska Airlines credit card. Miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and even hotel stays.
Alaska Mileage Plan also offers elite status tiers, which come with perks such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and lounge access.
Delta SkyMiles
Delta’s frequent flyer program, SkyMiles, offers a range of benefits to its members. Customers can earn miles by flying with Delta or its partner airlines, or by making purchases with the Delta SkyMiles credit card. Miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and even merchandise.
SkyMiles also offers elite status tiers, which come with perks such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and lounge access.
While both programs offer similar benefits, there are a few key differences to consider. For example, Alaska Airlines offers two credit cards to its frequent flyers (one personal and one business card), while Delta offers a range of options ranging from starter to premium cards.
Additionally, Alaska Airlines focuses on serving the Western United States and surrounding countries, while Delta is a larger airline serving cities and countries all over the world.
Overall, both frequent flyer programs offer valuable rewards for customers who frequently fly with these airlines.
It’s important to consider your travel habits and preferences when choosing which program to join.
Delta vs Alaska Credit Card
Delta and Alaska offer different credit card options, and the best choice depends on personal preferences and travel habits.
Delta credit cards offer benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and access to Delta Sky Club lounges, while Alaska credit cards offer benefits such as free checked bags, companion fares, and the ability to earn Alaska miles.
The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card is a good option for earning Alaska miles, which can be used to book flights on Oneworld partner airlines including Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, Qantas, and American Airlines. The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express card is a good option for Delta Flyers, offering benefits such as 2x miles on Delta purchases and priority boarding.
Alaska vs Delta First Class
According to a comparison by NerdWallet, Alaska Airlines’ first class seats offer more legroom than any other U.S. carrier, while Delta’s first class seats have more space than the economy class seats but less than Alaska’s.
Alaska Airlines also offers tablet holders for personal devices, footrests, and complimentary beer and wine, while Delta offers a wider variety of complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcohol. However, Delta has monitors on every seat for entertainment while Alaska Airlines only has monitors in their First Class sections.
Before You Go
After comparing Alaska Airlines and Delta, it is clear that both airlines have their strengths and weaknesses.
Delta is a larger airline with more flight options and a wider variety of food choices, while Alaska Airlines is known for its exceptional customer service and a smaller but growing network of destinations.
For those looking to travel internationally or to more destinations, Delta may be the better choice. However, for those traveling within the Western United States and surrounding countries, Alaska Airlines may be the more convenient option.
Ultimately, the decision between Alaska Airlines and Delta will depend on your individual travel needs and preferences.
We recommend considering factors such as destination, price, and in-flight experience when making your decision.
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