I’m not meaning to ruffle any feathers, but I’m curious if other people have the same perception, or at least think this is close to becoming a reality…
In this post:
Delta has long been the most respected & loved US carrier
When you look at the “big three” carriers in the United States, the competitive situation has changed drastically in recent years, both in terms of financial performance, and in terms of perception of the brands. It used to be that Delta was far and away the leader, with American and United in the rearview mirror, and roughly tied with one another. In recent times, United is leaving American behind, and increasingly entering Delta’s league.
This post isn’t about airline financial performance, since Delta is still firmly in first place on that front. Instead, this post is about vibes, public sentiment, and overall perception of the brand, which absolutely can have an impact on financial performance in the long run, but with a delay. After all, “winning brand loyal customers” is the name of the game, and positive brand perception creates brand loyal customers.
For so long, I think one of Delta’s “secret sauces” was just marketing itself as the premium, cool airline, that’s on the cutting edge of innovation. There’s not a US carrier that has a loyaler following, and the airline has tried to position itself as a lifestyle brand, with executives even comparing the airline to Apple.
Delta is an airline that hired Tom Brady as a “long-term strategic adviser,” and which has paid eight figures for CEO Ed Bastian to give a keynote address at CES in Las Vegas, talking about how innovative Delta is.
I guess the more direct way I’d sum this up is that when I’m not within the miles & points ecosystem and people bring up a US carrier in a positive way, it’s usually Delta. “Have you been to the new Delta One Lounge JFK, because it’s amazing?” “Did you see Delta’s new Missoni amenities?” Delta has done a brilliant job investing selectively, and creating halo effects from those investments.
Is United stealing the spotlight from Delta, or will it?
In recent years, United has been on a trajectory that would’ve been unimaginable a decade ago. There’s no denying that vibes are shifting positively in United’s direction. But for me, last week was a turning point — United’s full investment in its premium experience came together as the airline highlighted so many new things, from its new Boeing 787-9 business class cabins, to its new Airbus A321XLRs and A321neos, to its new very low capacity and premium jets, to flat beds of sorts in economy.
Maybe it’s just my impression, but I feel like more than ever before, United is doing a really good job staying in the spotlight, and highlighting the ways in which it’s innovating. There doesn’t have to be substance to every announcement (there certainly isn’t substance to many of Delta’s announcements), but there has been enough positive momentum where I feel like Delta and United might just be crossing paths in terms of the public’s impressions of their innovation.
I also think United is winning in terms of evolving market practices, when you consider the priorities of different generations, given the carrier’s huge focus on tech. United’s app is in a completely different league than Delta’s (or any other carrier’s, for that matter). While there’s work to be done, United expects to complete Starlink Wi-Fi installation before Delta even has plans to introduce Wi-Fi of a similar caliber leaves a potential gap.
Again (I need to repeat myself in posts about Delta), this isn’t at all about financial performance, but it’s about brand perception, and the way it’s evolving. I’m not sure United is there yet, but I think that within a year or two, it very well could be, at least based on where things currently stand. One thing is for sure — Delta is no longer the undisputed “premium innovator,” or whatever you’d like to call it.
Bottom line
It increasingly feels like Delta is no longer the undisputed disruptor and market innovator in the United States. United has obviously been trending upwards for a few years now, but I think particularly in recent times, United has really been stealing the spotlight.
This isn’t going to translate into United overtaking Delta in terms of financial performance overnight. However, I think vibes have changed, and I don’t think I’m imagining that.
I’m curious — when it comes to brand perception, do you think United has taken the top spot from Delta, do you think it could be imminent, or do you not see that being the case at all?
I hope this lights a fire under Delta. I'm a 2MM in a DL fortress hub without a D1 lounge. They talk a good game and deliver mixed results. I don't want to see them descend to the depths of the early aughts when I was wrote them off and burned my miles -- mostly because then I didn't live in a fortress hub.
And after being abused by United as a 1K and leaving...
I hope this lights a fire under Delta. I'm a 2MM in a DL fortress hub without a D1 lounge. They talk a good game and deliver mixed results. I don't want to see them descend to the depths of the early aughts when I was wrote them off and burned my miles -- mostly because then I didn't live in a fortress hub.
And after being abused by United as a 1K and leaving in disgust I really don't want to feel like I need to go back to them for good service. Also, it would suck to be a UA flyer at my airport.
Delta was dethroned by United a few years ago. The memo is sitting on Bastian’s desk. Delta knows what it says but are afraid to open the envelope.
https://liveandletsfly.com/united-vs-delta/
You copy me.
I copy you.
Some of these comments sound like they come from people who would truly be a pain in the ass to serve and try to please. I hope I never encounter you on flights I'm working.
Coming in here after the drama, amusing for sure. Even though mentioned a few times it wasn't about financial performance, Tim automatically went to his standard TimGPT answers. CASM, CHASM, PRASM, ASM, ASMR, ZAZM, owning a Biscotti factory, whatever it is they do to maintain the top crown. When I fly, financially, I just need to make sure that they are profitable enough to get me back the other way safely. And even as an...
Coming in here after the drama, amusing for sure. Even though mentioned a few times it wasn't about financial performance, Tim automatically went to his standard TimGPT answers. CASM, CHASM, PRASM, ASM, ASMR, ZAZM, owning a Biscotti factory, whatever it is they do to maintain the top crown. When I fly, financially, I just need to make sure that they are profitable enough to get me back the other way safely. And even as an AvGeek, I really don't care about load factors (that would require looking back) or how much freight is in the cargo hold or what price they paid for JET-A. That stuff matters to Tim and maybe 1% of the 1% of travelers.
As someone who does generally enjoy flying the friendly skies, I can not make any claims that it's not because of sheer geography. Atlanta folks are certainly going to be loyal to DL and ORD/DEN folks UA. EWR is closest to where I live, so they are the best choice, for me. Honestly, the rest becomes just window dressing.
Amen! Let’s not let one truly mentally deranged, pathetic, dogmatic, sad sack individual ruin an otherwise good OMAAT experience.
ORD and DEN are much more hotly contested than ATL or EWR, but yea, I agree with the major point here.
Yes, it was Tim’s biggest meltdown to date. I feel bad for him, because his condition seems to be getting worse everyday. Any mentally healthy person who reads this article thinks - “interesting read, let me go back to what I have to do”. I love aviation and I love to read about the industry, but that’s it. Reading comparisons between DL, UA, or any other airline out there doesn’t produce any kind of feeling...
Yes, it was Tim’s biggest meltdown to date. I feel bad for him, because his condition seems to be getting worse everyday. Any mentally healthy person who reads this article thinks - “interesting read, let me go back to what I have to do”. I love aviation and I love to read about the industry, but that’s it. Reading comparisons between DL, UA, or any other airline out there doesn’t produce any kind of feeling or emotion in me, mainly because I DON’T CARE ABOUT who’s number one or two or ten. However, Tim seems to have a borderline sexual obsession with this whole debate. Keep in mind that his condition is not linked to Delta, but to who he considers to be the industry leader. The day after UA surpasses DL as the most profitable airline in the US, he’ll switch his sick obsession to UA. This is a classic psychiatry’s case. I used to find it funny, because it’s entertaining, but now I feel bad for him, because he can’t help it, and this condition makes his life a living hell. But please Tim, if you’re reading this: it’s never to late to seek help. With the correct treatment, you’ll be free from this. It’s a win win: you’ll be happier and OMAAT will be better.
He's an addict, and as long as people keep feeding him speedballs of rage bait, he'll never quit. He's to be pitied, but also needs to be ignored in order to recover. Such a waste of our short time on this planet.
From the outside Delta Air Lines still looks extremely strong, and in many ways it is. But internally (from what friends have told me) there’s definitely a sense that the company is going through a period of transition. Priorities are shifting, some teams are feeling the pressure of that change, and there’s a lot of uncertainty about what the next phase will look like. Delta has navigated difficult moments before, but it wouldn’t be accurate...
From the outside Delta Air Lines still looks extremely strong, and in many ways it is. But internally (from what friends have told me) there’s definitely a sense that the company is going through a period of transition. Priorities are shifting, some teams are feeling the pressure of that change, and there’s a lot of uncertainty about what the next phase will look like. Delta has navigated difficult moments before, but it wouldn’t be accurate to say everything internally feels as smooth as the brand might suggest right now. At the same time, there’s also a growing sentiment among some employees that United Airlines has been gaining momentum and may be starting to shape more of the industry conversation, even if Delta remains financially very strong.
United Airlines still has a ways to go. That isn’t a bad thing, it’s the human interactions that count too. Otherwise, having more than just one decent airline in the U.S. is long called for.
I think you're on to something, Ben. I've appreciated United for quite some time. I'd say speaking of MileagePlus, though, it is in decline, and hope it does not fall to the same level as SkyMiles. You said you don't know of any airline that has such a loyal following as Delta. Maybe true, nowadays, but it used to be that Southwest had some of the fiercest loyalty out there. And on a third note,...
I think you're on to something, Ben. I've appreciated United for quite some time. I'd say speaking of MileagePlus, though, it is in decline, and hope it does not fall to the same level as SkyMiles. You said you don't know of any airline that has such a loyal following as Delta. Maybe true, nowadays, but it used to be that Southwest had some of the fiercest loyalty out there. And on a third note, I don't come to this site to read anti-Tim Dunn (and political) comments. I wish you could dial that back a bit.
Kids, there's a lesson in all this.
Don't base your entire life worth around an airline then you won't waste an entire day posting in the comment section with your various usernames.
The mental illness is on full display yesterday and today.
He probably regurgitated, what, 50,000 words yesterday? Now that DCS has “retired”, Lil Timmy D is definitely biggest loser in the T&L blogosphere.
I have enjoyed, no, really enjoyed, the challenge of attempting to de-throne Delta from the head of the U.S. airline pack. The United fanboys have failed to submit any credible evidence to promote their cause. I could not find any either, therefore, one can only conclude that none actually exists.
My assessment is, that the forthcoming commercial airline customer service surveys, will continue to indicate very little change in the 2025 findings. Due to the...
I have enjoyed, no, really enjoyed, the challenge of attempting to de-throne Delta from the head of the U.S. airline pack. The United fanboys have failed to submit any credible evidence to promote their cause. I could not find any either, therefore, one can only conclude that none actually exists.
My assessment is, that the forthcoming commercial airline customer service surveys, will continue to indicate very little change in the 2025 findings. Due to the current situation many believe that the U.S. carriers will actually loose ground in the World Rankings.
The naysayers can beat your chests all you wish, however, until the truth be known, your hot air rhetoric is absolutely meaningless.
International network and corresponding more J and PE seats than anyone else anywhere.
Mic drop.
Not going to read all the comments, and I am sure this has been mentioned already, but United would need to improve on its standard lounges to catch up. I never really hear much about a United Club from anyone, including travel bloggers. If Delta really does have any strong brand name, it’s because of stuff like the SkyClub and Comfort Plus, which offer a bit extra to a wide customer base.
“Not going to read…” your comment then.
Skyclubs are overcrowded Sh--shows. Take a look at LGA. The seats are literally on top of each other. And yet, still, there is always a line to get in.
Tim pulls out his phone and flashes a screenshot of his Delta Diamond Medallion status at the bartender."I’m looking to status match," Tim says, leaning over the wood. "Since I’m top-tier with the world’s most awarded airline, I assume that translates to at least two free rounds of top-shelf bourbon and a dedicated server for my stool."
The bartender doesn't even look up from the glass he's wiping. "Tim, we don't do status matches. Buy...
Tim pulls out his phone and flashes a screenshot of his Delta Diamond Medallion status at the bartender."I’m looking to status match," Tim says, leaning over the wood. "Since I’m top-tier with the world’s most awarded airline, I assume that translates to at least two free rounds of top-shelf bourbon and a dedicated server for my stool."
The bartender doesn't even look up from the glass he's wiping. "Tim, we don't do status matches. Buy a drink or move along."
Tim gasps, clutching his SkyMiles credit card. "Excuse me? Are you telling me you'd rather have a United Premier 1K sitting here? Because those people enjoy the 'hospitality' of a Newark terminal in mid-July. I bring the prestige of the Hartsfield-Jackson hub!"
The bartender sighs, "Tim, I don't care if you're the CEO of Delta."Tim narrows his eyes, takes a seat, and mutters, "Typical. This bar has the customer service of a United Express flight operated by a regional carrier with a broken AC. I'm writing a comment on OMAAT and I’m tagging Ed Bastian."
A great April fools post Eskimo, I’m impressed. The next time I login I will even give you a helpful tick for your efforts …. :-)
Loving this Delta-fanboy fan-fiction, fellas.
I have enjoyed the challenge 1990Bot, Tim has held up his side of the discussion admirably. The naysayers have contributed only clicks to Ben’s success.
In my opinion Eskimo’s April Fools day post deserves the credit today.
Somebody ship DCS and Tiny Handed Timmy in a (Loyalty Program) Heated Rivalry
Delta is like Emirates, all style and no substance. I truly don't know how people ever get a good vibe from them apart from the service. Their aircraft and cabins are old and janky AF with rare exception.
And their international route network and alliance is so weak. Korean and KLM's back is tired from carrying their entire offshore capacity.
United has been ahead for a while. The only reason I fly American is because of my CX loyalty lock in.
LOVE Emirates 380s because they deliver a great product.
Instead of all smoke (flimsy doors that do nothing except create a coffin-like feeling), Emirates actually delivers a great ride with low turbulence (A380), great IFE on big screens and with tail cams (there's no substitute for ICE), great business class wines and food, a fabulous lounge, and very well trained personnel. And unlike with other airlines that have a handful of A380s, with 120...
LOVE Emirates 380s because they deliver a great product.
Instead of all smoke (flimsy doors that do nothing except create a coffin-like feeling), Emirates actually delivers a great ride with low turbulence (A380), great IFE on big screens and with tail cams (there's no substitute for ICE), great business class wines and food, a fabulous lounge, and very well trained personnel. And unlike with other airlines that have a handful of A380s, with 120 of them it's a product you find almost everywhere.
Everyone is getting tripped up on the use of the word “cool” here, but it’s really just a less fancy way to say “brand” or “perception.” And in DL's case, they very much care about the latter two; in fact they’ve positioned themselves as a lifestyle brand first, transportation company second. Everything from the “premium flying experience” down to use of unique fonts is tied to it.
As someone looking at it a bit more from the outside, since I have less US domestic travel, United indeed seems more innovative these days. Their fleet programs are hitting the mark and they seem to have a vision that aligns with a strategy. Their tech leadership is definitely strong.
On the operational side, Delta still seems more reliable to me though, and they just seem "friendlier" and more customer oriented overall, but that may...
As someone looking at it a bit more from the outside, since I have less US domestic travel, United indeed seems more innovative these days. Their fleet programs are hitting the mark and they seem to have a vision that aligns with a strategy. Their tech leadership is definitely strong.
On the operational side, Delta still seems more reliable to me though, and they just seem "friendlier" and more customer oriented overall, but that may just be individual experiences. I guess in conclusion, UA has caught up, and AA is now a distant third.
I have noticed that Delta seats smell worse as the years pass.
Try sniffing a Delta seat.
Then wish upon a star.
You made me spit out my coffee. Cool? Ummm... no. Allegiant is more cool than United. Innovative? Maybe getting close.
Cool? Innovative? What color is the sky in your world?
Delta is king of gaslighting. Just ask any employee that has left since COVID that had 10+ years of tenure. The place is run by clowns. HR protects higher ups from absolutely despicable acts of harassment and unethical behavior. Lying is a prerequisite for being a general manager or above. The fact Wall Street can't ask the appropriate questions like why the Loyalty department's costs have exploded over the past 5 years is beyond me....
Delta is king of gaslighting. Just ask any employee that has left since COVID that had 10+ years of tenure. The place is run by clowns. HR protects higher ups from absolutely despicable acts of harassment and unethical behavior. Lying is a prerequisite for being a general manager or above. The fact Wall Street can't ask the appropriate questions like why the Loyalty department's costs have exploded over the past 5 years is beyond me. Diamonds have quadrupled in numbers since pre-Covid, and there are people that still think it means something. Clearly unprofitable routes are being announced and canceled within months. The thought that any strategy is actually baked and not just a puff of wind from His Almighty Ed's mouth is hilarious to people that actually know the bandaids and tape holding that airline together under the hood. If an investigative journalist wanted to have a field day, just go interview ex employees and ask how toxic and unethical the executive culture is.
Is that why Tim Dunn got fired?
I don’t travel much in the United States like 2-3 times a but I do 4 international trips and I like Flying more on United now than I used to on Delta, for me delta just has to many older planes. I live in dallas and choose BA before AA lol but delta used to be my go to but now it’s AF or United.
It seems like many of you are personally invested in this. I’m not — neither emotionally nor financially. I just book what works better and I’m not particularly susceptible to marketing.
What matters to me:
- Sleep -> international hard product: UA wins, even pre-Elevate. DL’s best product might be on par or slightly ahead (door), but UA wins on consistency — especially on fleets like the 767, which you still see a lot...
It seems like many of you are personally invested in this. I’m not — neither emotionally nor financially. I just book what works better and I’m not particularly susceptible to marketing.
What matters to me:
- Sleep -> international hard product: UA wins, even pre-Elevate. DL’s best product might be on par or slightly ahead (door), but UA wins on consistency — especially on fleets like the 767, which you still see a lot of as a NY-based flyer.
• IRROPS: UA 1K service beats DL Diamond where it actually matters.
• Hubs & terminals: EWR Terminal C > JFK Terminal 4.
• International network: significantly more direct destinations from the US. I don’t want to route through CDG/AMS/ICN and then take a short-haul connection. Star Alliance is also clearly stronger than SkyTeam.
• WiFi: DL wins today, but UA likely wins tomorrow as Starlink rolls out.
—
Delta has an edge in areas that don’t really matter (except wifi today) — or at least not enough to change my purchase behavior. United, on the other hand, has built an edge in areas that actually do.
Delta has better food, more consistently friendly flight attendants, and I personally prefer the Airbus fleet over UA’s more Boeing-heavy mix. But airplane food is still airplane food - I’d rather eat at my destination. And I don’t interact with flight attendants enough for that to move the needle (I prioritize sleep or work).
LOL @ EWR Terminal C being better than JFK T4. Just LOL.
Why is JFK T4 better than EWR Terminal C in your opinion?
Because he has eyes that work. I do not like T4, but it’s in a different league than EWR generally and Terminal C specifically. Night and day better lounges, better ground transport, better than EWR on a good day, night and day better than EWR on a bad day. Located in New York.
Just to state the obvious: Your Mileage May Vary. An airline is only as good as your last flight experience or, I suppose, if it were a truly bad experience and you complained to Customer Service, how well they handled your complaint.
Ben wrote, "...when I’m not within the miles & points ecosystem and people bring up a US carrier in a positive way, it’s usually Delta." Well, that's Ben's experience, not mine. Now...
Just to state the obvious: Your Mileage May Vary. An airline is only as good as your last flight experience or, I suppose, if it were a truly bad experience and you complained to Customer Service, how well they handled your complaint.
Ben wrote, "...when I’m not within the miles & points ecosystem and people bring up a US carrier in a positive way, it’s usually Delta." Well, that's Ben's experience, not mine. Now to be fair, I have no doubt Ben talks to a heck of a lot more people about airlines than I do. Additionally, he lives in Miami, where Delta has a major presence, even though MIA is a major American hub. On the other hand, I live in the SF Bay Area, a gigantic United hub where everyone else is something akin to an "also ran."
As printed in the San Francisco Chronicle today, "United Airlines accounts for roughly half of passenger traffic at SFO, with Alaska Airlines next at about 10%, according to airport data." I find more people talking about Alaska...but that's *my* experience, and again, YMMV.
very well rounded statement.
Anecdotes don't matter for companies that each serve hundreds of millions of customers per year.
It is not fanboyism to bring up actual data which shows that DL runs a better airline and a better business - and that is quantifiable.
How is "cool" even measured and who is the arbiter of success - whether it be poolside clothes or a mixed drink?
as for innovation, Scott Kirby himiself has said...
very well rounded statement.
Anecdotes don't matter for companies that each serve hundreds of millions of customers per year.
It is not fanboyism to bring up actual data which shows that DL runs a better airline and a better business - and that is quantifiable.
How is "cool" even measured and who is the arbiter of success - whether it be poolside clothes or a mixed drink?
as for innovation, Scott Kirby himiself has said how much he has learned from DL which implemented many of the strategies which UA is just now implementing.
UA actually flatters DL by copying its strategies - and DL didn't invent most of the things that it used to succeed.
The one DL strategy that UA was not successful in copying and will make a huge difference in the industry this year and in the years to come?
DL's refinery.
The jet and diesel fuel crack spread is wider than it has ever been - and that is exactly what the DL refinery counters the best.
Ben and the UA ilk can argue all day long about how cool a company is or not but the end of the year - and 365 days in between - will be defined by the amount of cold, hard cash an airline makes - and UA will be at an even greater disadvantage to DL than it was last year and before.
UA's growth will stop, it will not be in a financial position to pick fights w/ other carriers, and it will be DL that will seize opportunities in other airline AND UNITED markets to grow DL's presence.
Let's check back on December 31 whether "cool" or the ability to reduce fuel costs mattered the most.
I can say with 100% certainty that cool won't matter one iota but all kinds of people will spew all kinds of nonsense to deny the reality and defame the messenger that DL's refinery saved it yet another billion dollars in costs - which are used to do all kinds of things that other airlines - including UA - simply cannot do.
If UA ever has higher profits than DL will you switch to being a UA fanboy? What would it take for you to say something negative about Delta?
Yes, I will respect UA a WHOLE LOT more if they ran as good of a busines as they THINK
but as Jamie Baker, the senior airline analyst at JP Morgan said after DL presented first at their latest industrials conference featuring airlines that neither Ed or I are worried that DL will be anything other than the first airline to present (reserved for the most profitable US airline
All of this discussion can...
Yes, I will respect UA a WHOLE LOT more if they ran as good of a busines as they THINK
but as Jamie Baker, the senior airline analyst at JP Morgan said after DL presented first at their latest industrials conference featuring airlines that neither Ed or I are worried that DL will be anything other than the first airline to present (reserved for the most profitable US airline
All of this discussion can be summed up that UA talks a big game but delivers far less while DL is the airline that has implemented (not even created) the strategies that have made DL successful and which UA is largely copying
Jamie Baker is a tool/fool. You can trace JetBlue's woes to his analyst reports advocating for a worse (read: less differentiated) product, which sadly JetBlue implemented to shareholder's detriment. Was also a big fan of Parker at AA, one of that airline's most ruinous CEOs ever.
Tim been in shambles all week with all the positive press and social media United is getting. It’s been predictable and fun to watch. Poor guy probably having meltdown bigger than Deltas.
250 new jets in 2 years. Starlink. Elite app. Largest fleet. Solid balance sheet. . Customers switching to UAL.
It’s ok Timmmy your bike is still almost faster than mine.
Tim: "It is not fanboyism to bring up actual data which shows that DL runs a better airline and a better business - and that is quantifiable."
But it is when you only look at facts that support your assertion and ignore the ones that refute it. Like you brought up United's baggage mishandling rate but then ignore DL's woeful OTP mentioned in the same report hahaha
Yeah, flying United feels very different lately. I’d say on average Delta is slightly nicer, but United is a better deal.
When you have a paid first class (non DeltaOne) Delta ticket and you have to wait an hour to get into the SkyClub, something is definitely wrong. Besides the pre departure mess, then you add in First Class undrinkable wine, $3 sparkling wine, and nothing but chips / snacks on a 9pm 4-hour ATL-LAX in First Class, how do you consider yourself "premium"? Never waited in line for the United club, which they give access on a LAX to Cabo flight.
Ben, I agree that United is moving ahead if you remove the financial component. Where Delta still leads is with lounges. Polaris Lounges are in dire need of a refresh. The SF lounge, as of two months ago, was pathetic. Even the recent expansion at ORD has not solved many of the issues.
These days, when in doubt, ask AI...
Google Gemini's educated and unbiased answer (sort of neck and neck):
These days, when in doubt, ask AI...
Google Gemini's educated and unbiased answer (sort of neck and neck):
G'day!
Hilton LT Diamond now 2nd tier and ever more worthless lol
Oh, God. Not YOU.
these are exactly the kinds of things that real customers say and AI only amplifies real life.
The bottom line is that virtually no one that is unbiased believes that UA has overtaken DL in totality.
So true Tim, I’m unbiased as I could find no published evidence to support the claims. Furthermore, not one single post on the subject has put forward any credible evidence to support Ben’s perception.
A brilliant click-bait article Ben …. :-)
@DCS
What did AI say about Hilton program.
Better yet, How much Gemini says Hilton points are worth.
LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL.
Are you going to argue with the self anointed AI now?
You win the burn wars for the week.
I guess ol' "Can''t Stay Away" believes that he shouldn't think for himself but let AI do that for him. He should switch to academia where not relying on such crutches as AI improve the ability to think independently.
For anyone who hasn't been following Tim Dunn has not denied that he worked for Delta for over 30 years.
What is Mr. Dunn’s backstory? Just a “concerned citizen” who “loves a particular airline”… kinda wholesome, actually. Aww.
When everyone in a community realizes a member has a mental issue, and that member thinks for sure he is the only sane one…he definitely is a twat
I am interested in truth.
When actual unbiased people and AI all agree that UA is all hype and little substance, the deficiency is with your set, not me.
I thought we had all agreed to stop rage baiting Tim Dunn???
In all honestly pre covid I was hub captive to UA and so jealous of my friends who flew delta. Now I see photos of the lines at the SkyLounges while I stroll into the beautiful new United Clubs in DEN. Suddenly I am happy where I am.
I thought we had all agreed to stop rage baiting Tim Dunn???
In all honestly pre covid I was hub captive to UA and so jealous of my friends who flew delta. Now I see photos of the lines at the SkyLounges while I stroll into the beautiful new United Clubs in DEN. Suddenly I am happy where I am.
Used to be a United loyalist, but they've lost me. Delta has treated me better and (to my shock) had significantly cheaper fares on several recent trips. Go back to United? I don't think so.
"a loyaler following"
Ah, da kommt der Deutsche doch wieder raus!
Most of you continue to be duped. When you’re sitting in Seat 22B with no status your experience is more or less identical regardless of which of the legacies you happen to choose for that trip.
I think the answer depends on your personal metrics. For me, I find DL is still more reliable and overall the flight attendants are more service oriented.
I fly a mix of business and economy. In economy, I definitely feel more "appreciated" (FWIW) as a customer on DL than UA. I can't explain it, but I still sense UA still reflects Kirby's US Airways mentality.
In the end, I will say DL is still a...
I think the answer depends on your personal metrics. For me, I find DL is still more reliable and overall the flight attendants are more service oriented.
I fly a mix of business and economy. In economy, I definitely feel more "appreciated" (FWIW) as a customer on DL than UA. I can't explain it, but I still sense UA still reflects Kirby's US Airways mentality.
In the end, I will say DL is still a leader, but has become complacent. Ed is riding the coattails of Richard, and it's starting to show. It's time Ed be replaced with Richard 2.0.
UA FF program is SUPERIOR to DL Skypesos
This isn't even a question at this point. United is already better than Delta at most things besides a few fringe in cabin experience things. Better management team, better tech, better OTP in my experience, and better customer service when things go wrong.
Q: Has United Dethroned Delta as the industry leader?"
A: Yes.
what happens in your mind is no importance to the real world.
See the comment from Aero below.
and if you don't think he is right, provide proof.
How date you question what’s in Pari’s mind? You blather on about what’s on your mind to excess.
Tim, I have a confession to make …. There were times today when I wanted to prove Ben’s theory, however, I failed to find any credible evidence which I would have been willing to publish under my login.
Which login are you afraid to publish under, Aero? The diamond one that claims to be on UK time or the guest login that is also posting way past bedtime for your claimed age in the UK.
Definitely.
What actual proof can you bring forth to substantiate that statement Pari?
I have trawled the internet today for any such evidence, but I could find none. I have no axe to grind for either carrier, I was simply trying to find out the truth. If you are ever to be believed then bring forward that evidence or remain a laughing stock in the eyes of the readers.
Thus far, as a messenger, you are a dead duck in the water Pari …. quack, quack!
Oh please, you know what u were doing. Liar, liar, pants on fire. Lol. Earnings speaks more than perception and you know it.
The more significant news of the day is that the FAA is targeting yet another UA hub - this time SFO - with cuts in capacity.
Last year it was EWR when UA screamed about wanting slots and the FAA cut flights and strengthened schedule coordation.
This year it is ORD where the FAA pulled the run out from under UA's plans to grow ORD to the point of pushing AA out.
Now the FAA...
The more significant news of the day is that the FAA is targeting yet another UA hub - this time SFO - with cuts in capacity.
Last year it was EWR when UA screamed about wanting slots and the FAA cut flights and strengthened schedule coordation.
This year it is ORD where the FAA pulled the run out from under UA's plans to grow ORD to the point of pushing AA out.
Now the FAA is saying that parallel arrivals at SFO will be banned; arrivals will now have to be staggered w/ the result that the capacity of the airport will be cut -and the ability to connect flights in a hub operation will be significantly eroded.
How can one airline - and no others - be the focus of endless actions by the FAA in the name of ensuring safety for the traveling public?
according to Reuters
The FAA (as of March 31) is prohibiting side-by-side approaches to SFO's parallel east-west runways, even in clear weather, requiring staggered approaches instead. This safety measure, combined with a six-month runway repaving project, will cut the airport's maximum arrival rate from 54 flights per hour to 36.
yikes. Really yikes!
And yet none of what you just said has anything to do with the content of this article. Nice work Tim!
of course it isn't related to the article but it is more bad news on the previous round of bad news - none of which you want to hear because it is counter to your rainbows and unicorns narrative.
capacity cut at 3 UA hubs on top of higher labor costs and soaring fuel costs - the UA "we're great" narrative is falling apart by the minute.
Just to clarify, you aren't denying the FAA's actions or that the airport's capacity will dramatically fall, right?
Because Spectrum Boy, the false spin of your cult sycophancy for your Dad's employer notwithstanding, neither FAA action is geared directly toward UA. Facts are stubborn things? Just like your wifi lie earlier about UA. Facts matter. I mean, all of these supposed FAA actions and handcuffs you purport existing and UA still beats Georgia Klan Air on flying revenue...ouch kid.
-you humble teacher
of course it isn't directed to UA.
It is directed to YET ANOTHER UA hub airport.
Let us know how many other hub airports for other US airlines have had not one but three interventions by the FAA.
We get it. You all deny the reality which other people can see esp. since it is counter to the narrative of how great UA is and how it will keep growing.
EWR, ORD and SFO...
of course it isn't directed to UA.
It is directed to YET ANOTHER UA hub airport.
Let us know how many other hub airports for other US airlines have had not one but three interventions by the FAA.
We get it. You all deny the reality which other people can see esp. since it is counter to the narrative of how great UA is and how it will keep growing.
EWR, ORD and SFO are undoubtedly UA's 3 most important airports - and the FAA has put the skids on growth at all 3.
The SFO cuts will be by far the most dramatic if they require schedules to be cut to match runway capacity - which is what they have done 2 other times so there is little reason to believe anything will be different this time.
Spectrum Boy, IAH is UA's highest margin airport at 0.17 the others you list are all 0.16 and lax is lowest at 0.15. Those three are not the most important and the cap at SFO is actually above the current flight count. Facts matter kid.
And you did state one airline was 'the focus' of FAA actions but that is not the case. UA has also praised the FAA actions at EWR, and at ORD...
Spectrum Boy, IAH is UA's highest margin airport at 0.17 the others you list are all 0.16 and lax is lowest at 0.15. Those three are not the most important and the cap at SFO is actually above the current flight count. Facts matter kid.
And you did state one airline was 'the focus' of FAA actions but that is not the case. UA has also praised the FAA actions at EWR, and at ORD UA is 40% larger than AA. So no biggies but you keep trying. As someone who has status with DL and only flies then in paid F and J I just find humour in your religious-like sycophancy. But even kids on the spectrum like you will eventually grow out of it accordingly to most published studies so there is that. Now the FAA has to deal with Georgia Klan Air starting fires in Brasil. . .
Published media reports:
"The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) announced plans to close runway 1 Right for six months in 2026 to repave the runway surface and make adjacent taxiway improvements. The runway closure will begin on March 30, 2026, and is expected to reopen on October 2, 2026.
During this period, SFO will operate all arrivals and departures on runways 28 Left and 28 Right. This is a common configuration, often used during clear...
Published media reports:
"The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) announced plans to close runway 1 Right for six months in 2026 to repave the runway surface and make adjacent taxiway improvements. The runway closure will begin on March 30, 2026, and is expected to reopen on October 2, 2026.
During this period, SFO will operate all arrivals and departures on runways 28 Left and 28 Right. This is a common configuration, often used during clear windy days, and is the configuration preferred by both airlines and air traffic controllers. The runway parallel to the construction area, 1 Left, will not be used for takeoffs and landings but instead will serve as an additional taxiway to reduce ground congestion.
SFO expects less than 10% of flights to be delayed as a result of the runway closure, with delays averaging less than 30 minutes and most likely to occur during peak periods at 9:00am and 8:00pm – 9:00pm.
Because all flights will use runways 28 Left and 28 Right for takeoff, some communities will experience a temporary increase in departing air traffic overhead."
- - - -
The reduction in capacity, and not using parallel (side-by-side) arrivals, in SFO is 100% because of a construction project. With the closure of the northbound runway, they have the need to stagger arrivals, as 28L/R will be used for both takeoffs and landings (a landing will occur on 28L about the same time a takeoff is occurring on 28R, and vice-versa). They do it all the time when it's excessively windy out of the West (exceeding runway 1 L/R crosswind takeoff limitations), or when the wind is from the Southwest (exceeding runway 1 L/R tailwind takeoff limitations).
This has nothing to do with a safety focus on UA. You frankly know that claiming this is due to any UA-specific issue is a lie. What little credibility you may have had is long gone. You are attempting to spin a planned construction project into another "Delta is superior!" narrative. Pathetic.
I used to think you were just a paid shill. Now I just think you are just a shill - not even Delta would pay you for such poorly-constructed and illogical dribble.
This subject has been very interesting for me to study today, thank you Ben. Leaving all the bitching aside which has been posted herein, from my WWW search, I can find no recent published study which might suggest that United has eclipsed Delta.
The 2026 releases of the rankings will however confirm whether that situation has changed. Ben’s feelings of a change might only be in reference to certain industry trends, I don’t know.
One...
This subject has been very interesting for me to study today, thank you Ben. Leaving all the bitching aside which has been posted herein, from my WWW search, I can find no recent published study which might suggest that United has eclipsed Delta.
The 2026 releases of the rankings will however confirm whether that situation has changed. Ben’s feelings of a change might only be in reference to certain industry trends, I don’t know.
One personal conclusion I have made, is that I would never pay out of my own pocket, to fly on either carrier unless there was no alternative. Sorry folks but I still prefer real World Class airlines.
No, keep the “bitching” going!
1990Bot, you are NOT going to get away with trying to shoot this messenger. You might choose to be “Bitching” like an irrational schoolgirl, but on this occasion I am deadly serious.
I repeat …. “I can find no recent published study which might suggest that United has eclipsed Delta”.
Now, instead of bitching prove me wrong!
Aero,
"I repeat …. “I can find no recent published study which might suggest that United has eclipsed Delta”. "
Let's also find the "Published study" that claims Delta in the innovative industry leader while you're at it.
What a stupid comment to make from the "guest" aero. A published study that says UA has overtaken Delta when the entire article is about perception? lol
Some people are compulsive, obsessives, while others don’t give a toss!
Some people value login ‘status’, while others don’t give a toss.
Some people change their login name believing themselves to be anonymous under the alternative persona, while others don’t give a toss.
Some people are too lazy to login each time they revisit OMAAT, while others DO give a toss and their childish trolling, compulsive, obsessive behaviour highlights their intellectual inadequacies.
Yes ‘Diamond’ self, it has not gone unnoticed that the creature ‘Plain Jane’ always gets a helpful tick after trolling us. Could it be a ‘Diamond’ geezer in drag changing its login just to boost its ego?
Kettle calling the pot black comes into our mind, yes?
Ben, must luv these ego boosting tactics as the trolls boost his click-count.
Neither of these airlines will ever be "cool" as long as hostile, mean septuagenarians staff the planes that fly their flagship routes.
I am very entrenched in the world of Delta and am generally ok with that. The real challenge to my loyalty is the 767. The plane is just too narrow and most of my bookings are NYC to LAX or Europe. It is a horrible plane in D and those planes won't be going anywhere for while.
DL is indeed retiring the 767-300ERs and DL's 767s aren't any narrowier than UA's.
and don't talk about how great a single Polaris seat is because UA just blew that lie up as soon as it introduced its new Suite product.
UA compromised Polaris to provide a better product on the 767 at the expense of 100 other widebodies that had an inferior product not just to DL's Suite product that exists on 80 aircraft...
DL is indeed retiring the 767-300ERs and DL's 767s aren't any narrowier than UA's.
and don't talk about how great a single Polaris seat is because UA just blew that lie up as soon as it introduced its new Suite product.
UA compromised Polaris to provide a better product on the 767 at the expense of 100 other widebodies that had an inferior product not just to DL's Suite product that exists on 80 aircraft but also AA's current generation business class product.
You need only look at a seat map to see how many more seats UA fits in the same space with Polaris as other airlines to see that the amount of space is smaller
But Polaris is coool, right?
You do realize that DL has listed the Delta One Suites on the A350 - a 10 year old product - in its top 10 business class seats; not so much for UA Polaris
Retiring (future tense)? This will be completed, when, 2029, right before DL gets transpac wifi?
And, United's old 767-300 in Business have 3 seats across versus Delta's old 767-300 which are configurated with 4 seats across?
It’s interesting - since United started their “cool” trajectory, I’ve started shifting my flying to other carriers. It’s less about the cool factor and more that devaluations start around that time (look at Delta and what United is now doing).
Dude, everyone is choosing to devalue their programs.
American and Alaska haven’t at the same rate. Same with Flying Blue. There are levels to devaluation, and United is catching Delta.
lol what? Delta is toxic. Let’s recap:
Basic economy pioneers, which had an industry wide negative effect on the consumer
Massively devalued milage program
It’s like staying with your abusive boyfriend because he’s hot.
honestly, even worse than that: it's like staying with your abusive boyfriend because he *used to be* hot
Delta had a good run from about 2010 until the pandemic. But since the pandemic Delta has been cost-cutting and otherwise phoning it in. Remember when they briefly did HOT TOWELS and PLATED meals in economy? Now they make economy as miserable as possible and charge double the price that first or business should cost.
They don’t even do hot towels is domestic first class anymore. Miss it
I’m not the first to say it. Been diamond on delta for many years. But they are not the same airline they were pre Covid.
Resting on their Western Airlines coattails. Still miss the Economy champagne.
I agree in terms of innovative product and interesting place to go. There is no doubt that they love a good headline (they are also just like Delta in over marketing themselves). I appreciate that they are willing to take some more risk and be innovative (especially in the product world). Delta is so focused on consisntely (yet not fully consistent) that I think innovation gets stifled. In terms of the general public perception, it...
I agree in terms of innovative product and interesting place to go. There is no doubt that they love a good headline (they are also just like Delta in over marketing themselves). I appreciate that they are willing to take some more risk and be innovative (especially in the product world). Delta is so focused on consisntely (yet not fully consistent) that I think innovation gets stifled. In terms of the general public perception, it is still very behind. United still isn't looked at as great .It will take years but I do think that unless Delta starting doing some new stuff, United will take that crown.
I agree that last week felt like a turning point of sorts, but it seems like United has figured out one thing most of all – marketing. For me, this is where they have entered Delta's league more than anywhere else. The problem is, the portrait doesn't yet match reality.
As someone who flies between LA and NYC in Business often, and has flown United, Delta, JetBlue, and American multiple times in the past year, all...
I agree that last week felt like a turning point of sorts, but it seems like United has figured out one thing most of all – marketing. For me, this is where they have entered Delta's league more than anywhere else. The problem is, the portrait doesn't yet match reality.
As someone who flies between LA and NYC in Business often, and has flown United, Delta, JetBlue, and American multiple times in the past year, all this talk of "premium" has not yet added up for United.
While solid hard product is important, service is arguably the most memorable (good or bad) aspect of any premium flight. Transcon routes are supposed to be every U.S. airline's most premium flights–at least domestically–and while I have experienced friendly service on United, I've routinely had very so-so and sometimes poor service.
Yes, Delta's team has felt less consistent post-pandemic, but I still find their service is consistently more professional, friendlier, and actually adds up to the marketing more of the time. To me, it comes down to a feeling – and it's that Delta's team is clearly well cared for (i.e. profit sharing, company culture) and *wants* to be there. United's team still comes across as there to do a job – and feels less professional.
I've had three United Business flights in-a-row between LAX and EWR where the seats were dirty upon boarding. In addition, while it's great that United will introduce Coastliners with premium-heavy configurations, no one actually wants to face the aisle in Business. Delta's competing product has obviously taken years (and counting) to certify, but their seats will face the window – as they know people want to do. That brings me to one other point – Delta feels like it uses common sense more of the time. For example: They have chosen not to order the XLR. Why? Because they know (and have acknowledged) that passengers don't want to fly a single-aisle plane–more cramped, less spacious products, more susceptible to turbulence–on transatlantic flights.
Lastly, it's great that United will soon allow Polaris lounge access on transcon routes, but those lounges pale in comparison to Delta One lounges – and that's being kind.
No airline is perfect, and Delta's inconsistent aircraft, prices, and worse service post-pandemic are areas to work on. I certainly hope United continues to up its game, because Delta needs more real competition – especially to lower fares.
Pack your bags Tim Dunn?
After his delusional breakdown today, there is good chance that Tim will be sent back to the beach, permanently.
Now go on cry to Matthew and his asylum.
Today was his biggest meltdown ever I think. I feel bad for him. It must me sad to live a life like this. I think that Ben should put him on a little timeout, so he can seek the medical help he clearly needs. This article is a completely relevant one, but it made Tim go into a complete psychotic meltdown. Maybe with the correct treatment, one day he can read an article like this one and react like any mentally healthy person would.
because it is ok to voice opinions that are based on falsehoods and mistruths but not to speak the truth.
Ben is a big boy.
There are multiple people that have commented here that are clearly real customers and not the fans for either side.
and the clear takeaway including from Aaron directly above is that UA just doesn't deliver despite the hype.
The whole basis of today's pi79ng match is that we are...
because it is ok to voice opinions that are based on falsehoods and mistruths but not to speak the truth.
Ben is a big boy.
There are multiple people that have commented here that are clearly real customers and not the fans for either side.
and the clear takeaway including from Aaron directly above is that UA just doesn't deliver despite the hype.
The whole basis of today's pi79ng match is that we are supposed to believe that UA is dethroning DL in WiFi when UA doesn't have ANY WiFI on 95% of its mainilne fleet - almost 1000 aircraft?
that is beyond laughable to even think that real people in the real world are going to cling to advertisements and marketing rather than what service is ACTUALLY offered.
High speed LEO WiFi is here to stay. UA was years behind other airlines in even offering its FIRST high speed WiFi.
They simply - in the real world - are not going to steal any business by having a full LEO WiFi product a few months before AA and DL anymore than UA is losing bookings NOW because people won't fly an airline that doesn't have ANY free high speed WiFi.
The whole conversation goes over your head, Eduardo. you are the one to be pitied that you, once again, can't actually enter into the discussion.
Spectrum Boy, there you go with the falsehoods (lies) again. UA has wifi on nearly every aircraft above 50 seats and has for years. High speed is forthcoming on all also.
Facts are stubborn things kid.
-your humble teacher
Wait, now I’m confused.
I have nothing invested in this fight, but Tim you wrote “ The whole basis of today's pi79ng match is that we are supposed to believe that UA is dethroning DL in WiFi when UA doesn't have ANY WiFI on 95% of its mainilne fleet - almost 1000 aircraft?”…
I have been flying all three of the big three (AA, DL, and UA) consistently for years for my job …and...
Wait, now I’m confused.
I have nothing invested in this fight, but Tim you wrote “ The whole basis of today's pi79ng match is that we are supposed to believe that UA is dethroning DL in WiFi when UA doesn't have ANY WiFI on 95% of its mainilne fleet - almost 1000 aircraft?”…
I have been flying all three of the big three (AA, DL, and UA) consistently for years for my job …and I’m confused by this statement.
Is there a single plane in the UA mainline fleet that does not have WiFi? 100% of the planes I have been on for the past several years have it. Can anyone quote accurate statistics on this? Or am I just lucky to have 100% success rate?
A fair argument is fair whatever side you’re on, but this seems to be wildly false and looks like you’re clutching at straws
(Am I wasting time engaging? Probably)
Dr. Dao would beg to differ.
Last time Dr. Dao beg, he had a concussion and a broken nose.
Thank you! Never forget! UA3411!
Yes, it's a shame that United had to pay for another airlines disgusting behavior
Not enough said here about United’s far superior international route schedule — in my view, the ultimate arbiter of US airline sophistication and supremacy.
Well we all knew Spectrum Boy would take the bait trying to defend Georgia Klan Air against better products and more profitable flying airlines like UA. But the humour of it all, even though predictable, is outstanding. Spectrum Boy is, if anything predictable.
you do realize that UA is substantially less profitable than DL - UA generated just 2/3 of DL's profits even though UA flew 10% more ASMs and had a $1 billion fuel cost advantage - which is falling apart as UA has no choice but to start settling w/ its labor groups.
Add in the $1 billion plus fuel cost advantage and UA's 2026 earnings as a percentage of DL's could very well be less...
you do realize that UA is substantially less profitable than DL - UA generated just 2/3 of DL's profits even though UA flew 10% more ASMs and had a $1 billion fuel cost advantage - which is falling apart as UA has no choice but to start settling w/ its labor groups.
Add in the $1 billion plus fuel cost advantage and UA's 2026 earnings as a percentage of DL's could very well be less than half
So much for your "notion" of who is profitable and who is not.
focus on the facts instead of your childish insults at people that understand reality far more than you do
Oh Spectrum Boy, that is great. Not only do you not provide facts but lie as well. It was expected based on the religious and cultural like sycophancy you show to the airline your dad flies for, Georgia Klan Air with the widget. But facts are stubborn things. UA makes more revenue and profit on flight ops than Georgia Klan Air. Your tantrums notwithstanding. Now, Zoloft and apple juice for you kid!
Signed,
Your humble teacher
I’m of the opinion that Delta has made being most profitable as the number one goal while gaslighting the flying public and its employees that it offers the best product.
You’re not wrong.
Cool and innovative? More like evil and satanic. United is far better at anything because it's Chicago's Hometown Airline and Chicago is better than everywhere else at everything.
yes, like crime and fiscally poor performance.
No wonder you see the similarities between UA and Chicago.
you walked right into that one
Tim, are you implying that Atlanta doesn't have a higher crime rate than Chicago?
You really know how to trigger Timmy, Ben. I love it, keep up the good work.
I knew this would cause a Tim Dunn meltdown. Love this content.
Long time ago.
I know everything DL is shiny, lol. But, for the longest time, I'd argue JetBlue was actually the biggest innovator in the USA - at least in terms of onboard product. We all know that B6 is not financially being rewarded for their innovations, but I would say they led the pack for a long time and all the others followed. It is nice to see UA finally trying to be better. The United App...
I know everything DL is shiny, lol. But, for the longest time, I'd argue JetBlue was actually the biggest innovator in the USA - at least in terms of onboard product. We all know that B6 is not financially being rewarded for their innovations, but I would say they led the pack for a long time and all the others followed. It is nice to see UA finally trying to be better. The United App is really one of the best in the industry worldwide, if not the industry leader (one area they are truly the best).
B6 fails in operational reliability.
and, yes, I would agree that they were far more innovative than most airlines including UA.
UA is simply copying DL's WiFi strategy - and using newer technology which will be surpassed as always happens with tech, DL's AVOD strategy etc.
all UA and B6 haven't been able to copy is DL's customer service performance.
you do have to acknowledge that B6 has better baggage handling than UA
B6 also has better baggage handling than Delta lol - why didn't you acknowledge that Tim?
Also How is UA copying Delta's wifi strategy Tim, they are using different providers, UA is using Starlink? Delta just picked someone else (after UA)
It has nothing to do with providers. It has everything to do with even offering the service which UA didn't bother to see the need to do until DL did it first.
and thank you for confirming that UA's baggage handling is the worst in the industry.
And that B6' on-time and cancellation rates are worse than DL's.
apparently there is a happy balance of operational reliability and B6 fails because it can't get planes...
It has nothing to do with providers. It has everything to do with even offering the service which UA didn't bother to see the need to do until DL did it first.
and thank you for confirming that UA's baggage handling is the worst in the industry.
And that B6' on-time and cancellation rates are worse than DL's.
apparently there is a happy balance of operational reliability and B6 fails because it can't get planes where they need to be, let alone on-time while UA can't get bags where they need to be even though they handle fewer bags than AA, DL and WN.
Most ASMs and least number of bags but the worst baggage handling.
that is just dreadful.
I mean REALLY dreadful.
some people need to get out from under Kirby's desk and over to the airport to fix that baggage handling disaster that is UA day in and day out
@Tim
"and thank you for confirming that UA's baggage handling is the worst in the industry."
UA is not the worst, and again. A 100% meaningless metric to judge carriers against.
Alaska Airlines — ~1.14% (≈11.4 per 1,000)
American Airlines — ~1.03% (≈10.3 per 1,000)
United Airlines — ~0.75% (≈7.5 per 1,000)
Southwest Airlines — ~0.5–0.6% (≈5–6 per 1,000)
JetBlue Airways — ~0.5–0.6% (≈5–6 per 1,000)
Spirit Airlines —...
@Tim
"and thank you for confirming that UA's baggage handling is the worst in the industry."
UA is not the worst, and again. A 100% meaningless metric to judge carriers against.
Alaska Airlines — ~1.14% (≈11.4 per 1,000)
American Airlines — ~1.03% (≈10.3 per 1,000)
United Airlines — ~0.75% (≈7.5 per 1,000)
Southwest Airlines — ~0.5–0.6% (≈5–6 per 1,000)
JetBlue Airways — ~0.5–0.6% (≈5–6 per 1,000)
Spirit Airlines — ~0.54% (≈5.4 per 1,000)
Frontier Airlines — ~0.4–0.5% (≈4–5 per 1,000)
Delta Air Lines — ~0.49% (≈4.9 per 1,000)
Hawaiian Airlines — ~0.31% (≈3.1 per 1,000)
Allegiant Air — ~0.20% (≈2.0 per 1,000)
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/insuremytrip-reveals-which-airlines-are-mishandling-the-most-bags-and-how-to-protect-your-belongings-302335187.html
i have occasion in my job to discuss travel fairly frequently, and at least anecdotally, this very much seems to be increasingly the case based on what i am hearing
The thing Tim doesnt understand is, if you could just go a week without taking the bait, maybe Ben wouldnt write this stuff. But you medically cant resist. Its a condition. So the trolling continues!!!! LOL love it
I've said that for years about the UA internet crowd.
I like Ben and want to see him succeed.
But I also will never compromise the truth.
cool and all of that doesn't generate revenue or at least UA can't turn that cool into real revenue and profits like DL can.
but, of course I know that this site is populated by a bunch of people that don't want to hear about real numbers or evidence of whether anything really succeeds based on real metrics.
Truth is not supposed to be subjective. Your feelings regarding Delta are not only subjective, they are romantic and downright sexual. You're quite the pathetic person, Timbits.
We mainly just don't want to hear you. Your sycophancy is fodder for all readers of this blog.
We will get poor Tim to take the bait again
United is certainly trending in the right direction, but no, I don’t think United has (or is on the verge of) dethroning Delta in this way.
For one, readers of this and similar blogs are far more clued in to these United developments than the average passenger — most people wouldn’t know about the announcements United made last week (or if they did, wouldn’t think about how they compare to Delta/AA). “Vibe shifts” aren’t...
United is certainly trending in the right direction, but no, I don’t think United has (or is on the verge of) dethroning Delta in this way.
For one, readers of this and similar blogs are far more clued in to these United developments than the average passenger — most people wouldn’t know about the announcements United made last week (or if they did, wouldn’t think about how they compare to Delta/AA). “Vibe shifts” aren’t driven by bloggers and blog readers, but rather by general public perception.
I also don’t think Delta earned its reputation and loyal following by being an “innovator” per se (not to mention that a lot of the “innovations” — like fare class segmentation, loyalty point devaluations, etc. — aren’t exactly popular). Delta earned its loyal following (IMO) based on its operational reliability and (perceived) friendlier service. On the random occasions that I ask Delta flyers why they continue to fly Delta, those are far and away the top two reasons given. And I don’t think there is a broad perception yet that United has made up a ton of ground in these regards (which is admittedly something that takes a lot of time to do).
Delta with its terrible "loyalty" program and its outrageous pricing is going to be in second place very soon, if it is not already. Sad to say, given how badly United has treated some of us in the past, that under Kirby United is giving DL a run for its money.
That said, UA has some very inconsistent aircraft too! And don't get me started with the even more inconsistent FAs.
"Delta with its terrible "loyalty" program and its outrageous pricing is going to be in second place very soon"
We've seen that those don't really matter though: Singapore Airlines has a disgustingly terrible loyalty program (Krisflyer is so bad that it's laughable, even compared to Sky Miles) and it also has outrageous pricing.
Yet look at its brand quality and loyalty following.
Such a weird post about SQ, unless you intended to be sarcastic. To think SQ has been rated one of the best if not the best airline year after year and consistently profitable despite their bad loyalty program. Who wudda thunk...
Financial performance I think Delta will always have advantage. That American Express partnership is just too valuable. The Atlanta hub also benefits from generally better weather during IRROPS.
Marketing, United wins by a mile. The onboard hard product is better on United and I think United is trying to be better. Delta is happy to maintain the status quo. That has advantages and disadvantages. DL is just boring.
My gripe with United is...
Financial performance I think Delta will always have advantage. That American Express partnership is just too valuable. The Atlanta hub also benefits from generally better weather during IRROPS.
Marketing, United wins by a mile. The onboard hard product is better on United and I think United is trying to be better. Delta is happy to maintain the status quo. That has advantages and disadvantages. DL is just boring.
My gripe with United is arrogance. Nothing wrong with confidence but I think arrogance and ego has gotten in the way of United doing a better job. Kirby just comes off as unlikable. Don’t be so focused on humiliating AA. My father was retired UA so I have a special place in my heart for the brand but the world economy is about to reset and eventually all these innovations need money.
Good read..i personally think that the greatest indicator of an airline's presence is their international route network - and United has been pushing nonstop onto these markets more than anyone else. Not to mention Mileageplus is a far superior program to Delta's SkyPesos right now anyway.
Also tim dunn, I have colleagues half your age with more sensibility than you. I hope Delta gives you a bonus with how much you let Ed Bastion have his way with your wife.
It's difficult to "innovate" in an industry where most of your customers are buying from you solely on price. That leaves competitors fighting over the smaller profitable share, although the credit card game as altered that somewhat.
UA seems to be doing some things to stand out but time will tell if they can separate themselves from DL and AA.
OR ... Is all of the adulation about one airline versus another little more than a media/blogosphere invention?
Ben, really, I love you man, but you're just trolling at this point...
(I like it, btw)
United is edging ahead IMO. The inconsistency in Delta’s Long haul business class product is just absurd at this point. Sure United has their dorm style seats on a handful of AC, but that’s so rare and mainly to Hawaii. With Delta, it’s a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.
For a premium carrier to be this inconsistent with some seats that are just super dated and old is just...
United is edging ahead IMO. The inconsistency in Delta’s Long haul business class product is just absurd at this point. Sure United has their dorm style seats on a handful of AC, but that’s so rare and mainly to Hawaii. With Delta, it’s a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.
For a premium carrier to be this inconsistent with some seats that are just super dated and old is just ridiculous . At least with Qatar their older products are decent. The 767-300 sears are just so narrow.
United is steaming some thunder. Hard to believe esp after the assault incident 2017 on Dr. Dan. United was near left for dead but over 9 years later they are charging ahead.
The dorm-style seats to HNL definitely applies. And I'm looking forward to UA changing the 757 out hopefully sooner than later.
(I like to think of money as oxygen, as both are pretty crucial and the backup supply does not always last as long as one may expect. Going with this analogy...)
It is extremely bizarre to some and normal to others to stand behind an entity whose sole purpose is to extract as much oxygen from you as possible, and whether some of these entities are worth supporting or not is based on how much...
(I like to think of money as oxygen, as both are pretty crucial and the backup supply does not always last as long as one may expect. Going with this analogy...)
It is extremely bizarre to some and normal to others to stand behind an entity whose sole purpose is to extract as much oxygen from you as possible, and whether some of these entities are worth supporting or not is based on how much they give us a little bit of oxygen in return for taking years and years of a steady supply oxygen from them and/or whether they look cool and have cool branding when they take our oxygen
Ben. You've been losing your edge and objectivity ... or maybe it's because you're on vacation! This article is: 1) click bait of the very worst kind, and 2) very subject to your humble opinions which seem to relish any chance to bash Delta (twice today) with ludacris presumptions and assumptions. Keep it up, and OMAT will land in same dumpster I’ve put VFTW and PYOK in - because that's what your blog is becoming.
Ben is a miles and points blogger in addition to a travel blogger, and it's been the case for years that Delta is the worst US3 airline when it comes to miles and points. He has never been a Delta loyalist and was always clear in that regard
"...ludacris presumptions" So what are you presuming about a popular musical performer and spokesperson for an auto insurance extension company?
Of course United is the new leader. Delta is tired and stuck in the past. Everyone except Tim Dunn can see this truth.
The LA/NYC gays still fly Delta so until that changes ;)
so LA/NYC gays prefer southern DL over northern UA?
who knew?
what other groups prefer DL over UA?
and vice versa?
btw, research and data please
Can only speak on behalf of my own group here. Research and data: anecdotal and joke about gays being trendy
Its a pity because the rest of NY picks UA given DL continues to lose share there.
Tim, do you really not know about Delta Gays?
"Tim, do you really not know about Delta Gays?"
I don't think he realizes that Alec, Andy, you, and I speak for all gays everywhere. Like, we were officially anointed the Gay Spokesmen Cabal of Gays in all of Gaytopia.
Meanwhile, us Chicago gays are ignoring the Coastal Cabal and doing our own thing. Mostly, that's flying United, but some of us on the non-trendy and ultra-trendy spectrum are flying American in order to be ironic.
Miami gays enter the chat.
We are forced to fly AA to GIG and BCN to carry out our migratory circuit patterns in non-stop fashion. If only AA would give our humble hub some more love and send the new 789-P wide bodies our way, we’d be happy.
This is absolutely, 100% true. A handful of international LA/NY gays fly AA primarily for OW/BA. But most fly DL, and nobody (no-bo-dy) flies UA and nobody (no-bo-dy) flies EWR.
I certainly think so. I like Delta better than AA but I'm intrigued by what UA is doing and look forward to trying out their new premium products.
If United is cool, then consider me Miles Davis.
Wow Ben
You really are trying to push tim over the edge of sanity today lol
Not that it’s tough to do when talking about United vs Delta.
Can someone explain how people have such adoration for an airline they have zero affiliation with? These comment sections seem to get wild with the same handful of people defending an airline and demonizing anyone who says positive things about a different airline, yet aren't employees and as far as I can tell, it wasn't started by their grandparent either.
it is even more bizarre that a supposedly objective blog uses words like cool to describe a company.
Honestly, what companies have real customers - esp. corporate ones that deliver revenue - that do business w/ a company because they are cool?
it's all rather juvenile
"Honestly, what companies have real customers - esp. corporate ones that deliver revenue - that do business w/ a company because they are cool?"
Are you insane - dozens of them. This may be your most idiotic take yet.
no, corporate customers don't sign contracts based on who is "cool"
they just don't.
dude, you need to give up with the delta fanboy behaviour. its like a kpop 12 year old girl lol
I think it's more the American culture than just airlines, just look at how they associate with their left or right party, it's like that's the only thing that defines them.
Flashy ads are fine, and there’s little doubt UA is on a good and in my opinion the right path, however look at all that was promised with the rollout of Polaris, like wine flights etc. that was not consistently made available or promptly discontinued. UA often promises a little more than they deliver, which puts butts in seats in the near term but does little to bring people back.
DL at least is able...
Flashy ads are fine, and there’s little doubt UA is on a good and in my opinion the right path, however look at all that was promised with the rollout of Polaris, like wine flights etc. that was not consistently made available or promptly discontinued. UA often promises a little more than they deliver, which puts butts in seats in the near term but does little to bring people back.
DL at least is able to more or less pull off the service they promise on board, in my experience and from what I read.
From an outsider’s perspective of someone who does not stay in the US, it certainly looks so, or that’s how it comes across.
having leaders that flap their gums about how great they are might create an illusion but no one is really convinced if performance actually lags - which it does.
The jawboner in chief in DC talks a great game too.
I am sure Kirby is sending the Donald a thank you note for increasing UA's fuel cost by $11 billion this year.
clickbait.
let us know how the industry's worst baggage handling rate makes UA cool and innovative.
when you trail even AA and NK at anything, you are bad.
You really never miss an opportunity to grasp at straws to defend Delta. I couldn't imagine being this loyal to a company whose payroll I'm not on.
it's not about defending reality but rather defending common sense and perspective.
look, look, Max comes along (after doing so good at reasonable posts) to now say that government data on baggage handling is manipulated.
It is actually people that can't stand to admit that a company really doesn't do as well as real data shows that are the ones that grasp at straws.
We do know that UA has a number of paid...
it's not about defending reality but rather defending common sense and perspective.
look, look, Max comes along (after doing so good at reasonable posts) to now say that government data on baggage handling is manipulated.
It is actually people that can't stand to admit that a company really doesn't do as well as real data shows that are the ones that grasp at straws.
We do know that UA has a number of paid employees that "work the internet" for them so it shouldn't be any surprise that they are loyal - to the point of not even being willing to consider actual facts.
This coming from a guy with zero common sense.
You’re just making yourself look bad. It’s clear United is doing way more to improve their customer experience in 2026 and literally everybody is taking notice.
DOT measurement of MBR is a joke and easily manipulated anyway
Delta is good at manipulating it but it’s not quite the flex you think it is, tim
LOL, I'm sure the average traveler is closely following and comparing the baggage handling stats from all the airlines
Gurl, for once, I actually agree with you, you clicked it, and it did exactly what it was meant to do LMAO
Yeah mishandled bags are so low in the US that this is really a non issue. Also from the same data - ATCR United has the best OTP of any US airline (and Delta was the worst of the Big 4 in December), why aren't you commenting about that Tim? Or have you cherry picked one piece of data that favours your argument?
You're grasping a straws if you need to bring up mishandled bag rates as a metric of comparison.
Delta’s rate is roughly 4.5–5.0 per 1,000 bags (~0.46%), while United’s is about 6–6.5 per 1,000 (~0.69%).
In absolute terms, Delta has publicly indicated it handles on the order of ~120M checked bags annually. There’s no direct disclosure for United, but using typical industry assumptions (~0.7–0.8 checked bags per passenger and ~150–165M annual passengers), United is...
You're grasping a straws if you need to bring up mishandled bag rates as a metric of comparison.
Delta’s rate is roughly 4.5–5.0 per 1,000 bags (~0.46%), while United’s is about 6–6.5 per 1,000 (~0.69%).
In absolute terms, Delta has publicly indicated it handles on the order of ~120M checked bags annually. There’s no direct disclosure for United, but using typical industry assumptions (~0.7–0.8 checked bags per passenger and ~150–165M annual passengers), United is likely in a similar range—roughly 110–130M bags per year.
At those volumes, that implies:
Delta: ~550K mishandled bags annually
United: ~750K–900K
So the gap is on the order of 200K–300K bags per year.
That difference is real, but it’s important to put it in context: both airlines successfully handle well over 99% of bags without issue, and the vast majority of “mishandled” bags are delayed, not lost.
Per the U.S. Department of Transportation, mishandled baggage includes lost, delayed, damaged, or pilfered bags, and the metric is based on customer-filed reports, not internal airline tracking. That introduces variability depending on passenger behavior and reporting thresholds.
There are also structural factors that can skew comparisons. United’s network relies more heavily on large, delay-prone hubs like Newark and Chicago and includes a higher volume of international and interline itineraries through Star Alliance partners. Those additional handoffs inherently increase the probability of a bag being delayed. Delta, by contrast, tends to operate more traffic on its own metal and through more operationally controlled hubs.
So while Delta does outperform United on this metric, the practical impact is narrower than the headline percentages might suggest, and baggage performance alone doesn’t necessarily provide a complete picture of overall operational quality.
When are you gonna get your own blog, Tim?
Never. That would require building something and the courage to handle whatever came their way. Why do that when they can just wreck everyone else’s?
So now that DL’s on time performance recently is worse than AA…
Well DL must be bad then because they are behind AA on OTP lol and behind NK on mishandled bags (which you seem to care so much about today)? So according to you Tim, Delta is bad yes?
Something something, those are actually competitive advantages. Something something, strategically brilliant
Lol. No.
Stoopwaffles vs Biscoff… let’s freakin’ go!
(UA is not ahead, so long as they’re still charging $8/800 points for WiFi, and GUC/RUC still beat those worthless PlusPoints.)
As someone who flies both carriers, loyal to neither, I have long believed United was the superior airline. Better aircraft, better seats, better crews internationally, better entertainment, and better food (I know, it's a tough argument to make). Most important, though, in a general sense - a better app.
Better seats? Psh. UA has no IFE/AVOD on half their aircraft… lame. (At least DL seems to ditching their 717s, finally).
Not everyone cares about IFE
Yup. While a cabin certainly looks more "premium" with IFE, what's the real benefit over an onboard router that can deliver the same content to your device of choice? Where you can use your headphones of choice (without the hassle of pairing them)? It's not like those screen are free--they're thousands of dollars per seat, plus hundreds of pounds of additional weight.
They have AVOD/IFE on more than 80% of their mainline aircraft, you're just plainly incorrect...
Andy, then, it feels like I’m on that unlucky 20% half the time! Sheesh…
? You mean the commuter crap? I seldom don't have IFE on Uniteds planes
If you put 2 cherry tomatoes on a wilted salad, it's objectively a better salad than the same one with 1 cherry tomato... but it's still a crappy salad.