10 BEST Airlines to Fly to San Francisco in 2025 (Ranked)

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Planning a trip to San Francisco? Whether you’re flying in for business, a tech conference, or to explore the Golden Gate City, choosing the right airline can make or break your experience.

To create this definitive ranking of the best airlines to fly to SFO in 2025, I analyzed data from 150 airports worldwide, factoring in:

✅ On-time performance – Which airlines have the lowest delays and cancellations at SFO?
✅ Seat comfort & cabin experience – Lie-flat seats in Business Class? Extra legroom in Economy? We break it down.
✅ Pricing trends & fare deals – Which airlines consistently offer the best value for your money?
✅ Route availability – Nonstop flights vs. multiple layovers — who does it best?
✅ Lounge access & perks – Best airline lounges at SFO and partner access for premium passengers.

💡 Interesting takeaway: Some budget airlines outperform premium carriers on reliability, while a few well-known airlines are quietly scaling back their SFO routes in 2025.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, this guide will help you find the best airline for your needs—from luxury Business Class to the most affordable Economy fares. Let’s dive in!

#1 tip to find cheap flights to San Francisco

Looking for the cheapest flights to San Francisco? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

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I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $227 roundtrip fare from Boston to San Francisco in June. Not bad!

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing. And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $5,000 in 2024 alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

Now, let’s dive into the 10 best airlines to fly to San Francisco in 2025.

1. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: San Francisco (SFO), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Denver (DEN), Newark (EWR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Economy Plus, First Class, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – Star Alliance member with no expiring miles
• ☕ Perks: SFO hub dominance, extensive route network, Polaris lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Booking early morning or late evening flights on United from SFO often comes with lower fares and smoother airport flow. These time slots also increase your chances of scoring complimentary upgrades if you have MileagePlus status.

Flying United to San Francisco feels like coming home to their West Coast headquarters, where they’ve spent decades perfecting operations that make SFO work better than most airlines manage at any airport. As the undisputed king of San Francisco aviation, United doesn’t just serve the Bay Area, they’ve built an empire around it, operating more flights than the next three carriers combined while maintaining service standards that actually justify their dominance.

The onboard experience reflects the airline’s effort to stay competitive while still offering value. Basic Economy covers the essentials, but Economy Plus is worth the upgrade for the extra legroom, especially on cross-country flights. First Class works well for regional hops with wide seats and early boarding, while Polaris Business on long-haul routes brings lie-flat beds, high-quality meals, and elevated service that rivals international carriers.

San Francisco Airport showcases United’s home field advantage like nowhere else, with prime gate locations, dedicated check-in areas, and operations that flow with Swiss-like precision despite handling massive passenger volumes. Here, the Polaris Lounge sets the gold standard for airport hospitality, offering shower suites, full-service dining, and city views that make connection time genuinely enjoyable rather than airport purgatory.

MileagePlus ties everything together. You can earn and redeem miles not just on United but across the entire Star Alliance network. Since the miles never expire, there’s no pressure to use them right away. And because competition is high on routes in and out of SFO, fares often dip to $150-400 roundtrip for major cities, making it easier to score a good deal without giving up comfort or reliability.

• Read next: Magical Places in Northern California

2. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), Los Angeles (LAX), Atlanta (ATL), Minneapolis (MSP)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – partners with Virgin Atlantic and Air France-KLM
• ☕ Perks: Strong West Coast network, Sky Club lounges, premium service standards
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Grab a day pass to the SFO Sky Club in Terminal 1 for great bay views and solid food, even if you’re not a member.

Delta has carved out a solid presence in San Francisco by focusing on quality and consistency rather than sheer volume. While United may dominate SFO, Delta brings a quieter kind of excellence. The airline’s frequent flights from Seattle and LAX make it easy to plan short West Coast hops, and their cross-country service holds its own with a polished inflight experience that rivals bigger players.

Board any Delta flight to SFO and you’ll notice their commitment to winning market share through superior passenger experience. Main Cabin feels surprisingly roomy for domestic travel, and the seatback entertainment, Wi-Fi, and snack options all hit the mark. Comfort+ is where you start to notice the difference, especially on longer flights where the extra legroom and priority boarding go a long way. On select transcontinental routes, Delta One offers lie-flat seats, elevated service, and an atmosphere that feels more international than domestic.

SkyMiles members can take advantage of frequent sales to and from San Francisco, with roundtrip fares to major cities often landing between $180 and $450. The program offers strong value thanks to Delta’s reliable operations and global partners. 

SFO might not be Delta’s largest hub, but their setup in Terminal 1 is smooth and easy to navigate. You won’t have to battle through the crowds that tend to gather at other terminals, and getting to the city or your hotel is quick from this side of the airport. The Sky Club is also a standout space, with plenty of seating, decent food, and some of the best airport views you’ll find in California.

3. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Phoenix (PHX), Miami (MIA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Premium Economy, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Oneworld partnerships, competitive transcontinental service, extensive route network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: American’s Phoenix-SFO route offers excellent Southwest connections with 5+ daily flights. Their Flagship First transcontinental service rivals business class at domestic pricing

American Airlines may not dominate SFO, but it’s quietly made itself a smart pick for travelers heading to or from the Bay Area. AA’s Phoenix and Dallas routes offer consistent connections, and the airline has steadily improved its long-haul domestic service. These days, flying American into San Francisco feels more intentional, especially on transcontinental routes where upgraded cabins and schedules reflect a push to compete.

Onboard, Main Cabin is solid for domestic hops, offering seatback entertainment and enough legroom to get by on longer routes. Premium Economy shines on coast-to-coast flights, with extra space, upgraded meals, and a noticeably quieter cabin. Flagship First, available on select transcon routes, offers lie-flat seating, priority perks, and plated meals that bring a touch of luxury without the steep pricing of international business class.

AAdvantage members benefit from American’s deep network and its oneworld partners, opening up international redemption options and smooth status matching. Frequent fare drops make roundtrips from major cities to San Francisco land around $160-420, and the airline’s co-branded cards can add value through perks like free bags and early boarding.

Operations at SFO run through Terminal 2, which offers a calmer experience than the airport’s busier sections. It’s easy to get through security, and ground transportation is straightforward. The Admirals Club here isn’t flashy, but it delivers exactly what you want in a lounge—reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a quiet place to recharge before boarding.

• Read next: American Airlines Business Class Review

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Recently, I got an email alert on a $199 roundtrip fare from Boston to SF with American Airlines. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

4. 🇺🇸 Alaska Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), Portland (PDX), San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main, Premium Class, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Mileage Plan – unique distance-based earning with generous partners
• ☕ Perks: West Coast expertise, excellent customer service, generous policies
• 🧠 Pro Tip:Book flights out of SFO on Tuesdays or Wednesdays for the best Alaska fare drops. Combine that with their companion fare if you’re flying with a friend, and it can cut your total cost nearly in half.

Flying Alaska Airlines to San Francisco feels a bit like flying with the last airline that still remembers what friendly service is supposed to look like. You’re not just a seat number here. Alaska treats SFO as a key hub, with tons of daily departures across the West Coast and Hawaii, so you’re rarely stuck waiting for the next flight out.

Main cabin embodies Alaska’s passenger-first philosophy with proper legroom (around 32 inches), complimentary snacks that don’t taste like survival rations, and crews who seem genuinely happy to be working rather than just going through corporate motions. Premium Class adds valuable space for longer flights, while First Class delivers personalized service that reminds you some airlines still treat passengers like valued customers rather than inconvenient cargo.

Mileage Plan is a hidden gem. You can earn serious value flying their international partners, and redemptions often cost fewer miles than with bigger airlines. Plus, they still offer the famous Companion fare, which can cut your trip cost in half. When roundtrips to SFO regularly drop to $120-320, Alaska starts looking like one of the smartest ways to fly the West.

What makes Alaska stand out more is how well they run things. Flights usually leave on time, rebooking is painless when things go wrong, and there’s a real sense that the people working here actually like their jobs. It’s a smaller operation at SFO compared to the big three, but that often works in your favor—less chaos, more care.

• Read next: Beautiful West Coast Destinations

5. 🇺🇸 Southwest Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Oakland (OAK) – Southwest’s Bay Area gateway
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (one class, various fare types)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Rapid Rewards – points never expire, companion pass available
• ☕ Perks: No change fees, open seating, Oakland focus
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Download the Southwest app and check in exactly 24 hours before your flight to get a better boarding position.

Southwest doesn’t try to compete with the giants at SFO. Instead, they built a smart and efficient base across the bay in Oakland. The airline runs over 100 flights a day from OAK, covering key cities across the country without the chaos of a major international hub. For many travelers, it ends up being faster, cheaper, and far less stressful.

The experience on board is refreshingly straightforward. You get one class of service, but it doesn’t feel bare bones. Seats are roomy with about 32-33 inches of legroom, and the open seating policy lets families or groups sit together without extra fees. The crew often adds some light humor to the mix, plus free WiFi that actually works.,

Rapid Rewards keeps things simple. You earn based on what you spend, not on complicated charts, and the points never expire. The real gem is the Companion Pass, which lets a friend or partner fly free with you, often for up to two years. Roundtrip fares from Oakland to major cities often hover between $99 and $299, and that includes perks most airlines charge extra for.

Oakland Airport might not have the polish of SFO, but it’s far easier to navigate. Security lines move faster, parking is more affordable, and Southwest’s operation there feels like a well-oiled machine. You also get easy access to San Francisco via the BART train, which makes Oakland surprisingly convenient even if you’re headed downtown.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in San Francisco

6. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Club World), First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Direct London-SFO service, premium standards, extensive global network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When flying BA to SFO, try choosing seats on the upper deck of the A380 in Premium Economy or Business. It’s quieter, more private, and often overlooked.

Flying British Airways into San Francisco feels like stepping into a calm, well-rehearsed routine, one where everything just works. The airline’s London-SFO route is built for both business travelers and long-haul leisure flyers, with smooth boarding, sharp service, and a quiet kind of efficiency. It’s a solid way to travel between two innovation hubs without giving up comfort.

In Economy, you get decent legroom, full meals, and free drinks, which still feels like a win on an 11-hour flight. The seatback screens are packed with British and international shows, and the crew brings that signature UK blend of politeness and dry wit. Premium Economy is noticeably more spacious and quieter, while Club World offers lie-flat beds, privacy, and a dining experience that feels more restaurant than airline.

Landing at SFO from Heathrow means you avoid the chaos of European connections. British Airways runs their long-haul flights out of Terminal 5, which is well-organized for onward travel across Europe. So, whether you’re connecting through London or starting your journey there, BA keeps things running with the kind of consistency you want when crossing continents.

Avios points stretch surprisingly far on this route. Off-peak award tickets can be booked for just 50,000 points roundtrip, and British Airways often runs flight-and-hotel bundles that can save you serious cash on London stays. If you time it right, you’ll catch roundtrip cash fares to San Francisco for $400-800, which is a pretty fair deal for direct service with full-service perks.

• Read next: British Airways First Class Guide

7. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Vancouver (YVR), Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Montreal (YUL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan – Star Alliance member with flexible redemptions
• ☕ Perks: Vancouver connections, Canadian hospitality, efficient operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose a morning departure from Vancouver to SFO for the smoothest travel experience. Early flights are less prone to delays.

Air Canada treats their Vancouver-SFO route like a natural Pacific Coast extension, connecting two tech-forward cities through service that embodies Canadian efficiency without sacrificing genuine hospitality. The multiple daily departures create an almost shuttle-like frequency between Vancouver and San Francisco, perfect for business travelers or tourists exploring the stunning Pacific Northwest to California coastline corridor.

The inflight experience reflects Canada’s reputation for doing things thoughtfully. Economy seats offer about proper legroom, and you get complimentary drinks and snacks that go beyond the usual chips and pretzels. Premium Economy adds more space and upgraded meals, while Business Class is ideal for short-haul comfort with wider seats, priority service, and a quiet cabin.

Vancouver International is one of the best airports to fly through on the West Coast. It’s clean, scenic, and incredibly efficient. Customs and security are usually a breeze, and the terminal design makes for an easy transfer if you’re continuing beyond San Francisco. Plus, if you’ve got time, Vancouver itself is a fantastic place to stretch a layover. Grab sushi, hit the seawall, or explore Gastown.

Aeroplan has become one of the most flexible loyalty programs in North America. It works seamlessly with Star Alliance carriers, making it easy to plan both domestic and international trips. Roundtrip fares from Vancouver to SFO usually fall between $145 and $325, and if you have elite status, perks like Maple Leaf Lounge access and faster check-in make the trip feel a bit more elevated.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in San Francisco Bay

8. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – Star Alliance founding member
• ☕ Perks: German engineering excellence, Frankfurt connections, premium standards
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you prefer calmer airports, book your route through Munich. The airport is smaller, easier to navigate, and known for its relaxed vibe and fast connections compared to Frankfurt.

Lufthansa’s flights to San Francisco don’t feel flashy, but they feel reliable. That might not sound exciting, but when you’re staring down an 11-hour haul, dependability is exactly what you want. The airline’s Frankfurt-SFO route runs like clockwork, and if you’re connecting from elsewhere in Europe, their massive Star Alliance network makes it easy to plug in from almost anywhere.

The Economy cabin is solid. You get decent legroom, clean seats, and hot meals that lean a bit more “airline European” than “airline generic.” The crew keeps things efficient without being overbearing. Premium Economy is a smart upgrade if you want more space but don’t need the full Business Class treatment. If you do go for Business, you’ll get lie-flat seats, better privacy, and a dining setup that feels thoughtfully designed, not just tacked on.

Miles & More has its quirks, but it’s still a strong program for international flyers. Flights from Europe to San Francisco often go for $500 to $1,100 roundtrip, and occasional fare sales make Business Class a lot more accessible than you’d think. Add in lounge access, priority boarding, and solid partner perks, and Lufthansa becomes a pretty smart way to cross the Atlantic without stress.

Frankfurt Airport is busy, sure, but it’s pretty organized. You won’t find much fluff, but what’s there works well. If you prefer a less hectic start, flying through Munich changes the tone completely. It’s smaller, more relaxed, and has just enough charm to make an airport layover feel like part of the trip rather than a hassle.

• Read next: Top Airlines to Frankfurt

9. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards – partnerships with various airlines
• ☕ Perks: A380 experience, Dubai stopover program, luxury service standards
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re stopping in Dubai for 8 hours or more, activate the “My Emirates Pass.” It unlocks free or discounted access to attractions like museums, theme parks, and even desert safaris.

Emirates to San Francisco feels like booking a roundtrip ticket through two different worlds. On one side is the ultra-modern, high-gloss vibe of Dubai. On the other is the laid-back energy of the Bay Area. Somehow, Emirates makes that 16-hour leap feel smooth, seamless, and genuinely indulgent, even if you’re not flying First.

The A380 is part of the magic. It’s quiet, spacious, and somehow never feels like you’re sharing the cabin with 400 other people. Economy offers more room than most, and the inflight entertainment is wild. We’re talking thousands of movies, shows, and games that make the hours disappear. Premium Economy feels like a smart middle ground, while Business and First feel more like you’re in a hotel suite than on a plane.

Skywards isn’t the flashiest loyalty program, but it does the job if you fly often or can pair it with a partner airline. More often than not, though, Emirates’ cash fares are the real deal. Roundtrip flights from major U.S. cities to San Francisco via Dubai can go for $900 to $1,500, which is solid considering you’re getting one of the most premium experiences in commercial aviation.

What really makes Emirates stand out is how much of the journey feels intentional. You land in Dubai and everything from signage to staff to the lounge layout feels made to guide you, not confuse you. If you’re stuck there for a while, it doesn’t feel like an inconvenience at all.

• Read next: Best Areas to Stay in San Francisco

10. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class, Suites
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Changi Airport excellence, legendary service, innovative cabin products
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose seats in the forward Economy cabin on the A350 for a quieter ride and quicker exit upon arrival in San Francisco. These rows often fill up fast, so select your seat early.

There’s something almost surreal about flying Singapore Airlines. From the moment you step on board, it’s clear they’re playing a different game. Everything, from the way the cabin smells to how the crew speaks to you, feels intentional, thoughtful, and refreshingly human. Their San Francisco route is no exception. It’s not just a long-haul flight, it’s part of the journey you’ll actually remember.

Economy sets impossibly high standards with 32-34 inches of legroom, award-winning entertainment systems, and meal service that rivals many airlines’ premium cabins. The cabin feels serene and well-designed, while crews deliver the legendary Singapore Airlines service that makes other carriers look amateurish. Premium Economy offers 38 inches of pitch with lie-flat capability, while Business provides fully-flat beds in sophisticated configurations. Suites Class creates actual rooms with separate beds and seating areas that redefine luxury flying.

The KrisFlyer program doesn’t overcomplicate things. Redemptions are fair, upgrades are within reach, and Star Alliance connections make global travel feel seamless. Roundtrip fares from Singapore to San Francisco usually fall between $1,100 and $1,900, and while that’s not the cheapest ticket on the board, the level of comfort, care, and consistency makes it worth every dollar.

And then there’s Changi. Most airports feel like places you just need to get through. Changi makes you want to stay. It has gardens, waterfalls, a rooftop pool, movie theaters, and sleep pods. It turns a layover into part of the experience, and Singapore Airlines leans into that with smooth transfers and perks that make waiting feel almost indulgent.

• Read next: Top Airlines to Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Airlines for Flying to Tel Aviv

Looking for more insights on the best flights to San Francisco? Dive into our FAQ section where we address popular queries about the top airlines for your San Francisco adventure, gathered from travelers like you.

Which airline flies the most from SFO?

United Airlines, often considered the best San Francisco airline, is notable for having the most flights departing from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Their comprehensive flight schedule reflects their extensive network and prominence at this major hub. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, you might want to refer to the latest flight schedules and airline data related to SFO.

What is the most used airline in California?

Southwest Airlines, often recognized as the best airline in San Francisco, is also one of the most used airlines in California. Renowned for its extensive intra-state network and frequent flights to various cities across California, Southwest’s popularity stems from its convenient scheduling and competitive fares. It therefore appeals to a wide range of travelers within the state. For the most current and detailed information, consult the latest flight data and statistics specific to California’s air travel.

What major airline is based in San Francisco?

United Airlines is a top San Francisco airline. With its significant presence at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), United Airlines has established itself as a key player in air travel both within and beyond California.

What Airlines is San Francisco a hub for?

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a major hub for United Airlines and Alaska Airlines. United Airlines has a significant presence at SFO, operating a large number of flights to domestic and international destinations. Alaska Airlines also uses SFO as a key hub, particularly for flights along the West Coast and to other major cities in the United States.

What is the new airline in San Francisco?

The newest airline to establish its presence in San Francisco is STARLUX Airlines, a Taiwan-based luxury carrier. They have recently announced the launch of flights between San Francisco and Taipei. This service will initially operate three times a week, with plans to increase to daily flights by March 2025. STARLUX Airlines is known for offering a luxury travel experience and is expanding its reach in the United States, with San Francisco being its latest addition​​​​.

What new routes has Frontier Airlines introduced from San Francisco?

Frontier Airlines has launched new seasonal nonstop service from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago Midway, Orlando, Detroit, and Cleveland starting in May and June of 2023. This expansion offers Bay Area travelers more affordable and convenient options for their summer travel​​.

What recent expansion has STARLUX Airlines announced in San Francisco?

STARLUX Airlines, a Taiwan-based luxury carrier, recently announced new flights between San Francisco and Taipei. Initially operating three times a week, the service will increase to daily flights by 2025, marking an exciting expansion for the airline in the United States​​.

Concluding Thoughts on San Francisco’s Best Airlines

Hope you found this round-up of the best airlines to SF to be helpful! Whether you’re seeking luxury with Emirates, efficiency with Lufthansa, or friendly service with Southwest, there’s an airline that fits your travel style. The journey to San Francisco is as important as your stay – these airlines ensure it’s memorable. So, when you next plan a trip to the City by the Bay, consider these top airlines. This will make sure your journey’s filled with comfort, convenience, and exceptional service. Happy travels!