Top 10 Safest Airlines in the US (in 2025)

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Flying in 2024? Don’t leave safety to chance. This guide dives into the safest airlines in the U.S., ranked by their impeccable records, rigorous maintenance, and cutting-edge safety protocols. With over a decade of travel experience and deep industry insights, I’ve analyzed everything from crash statistics to FAA compliance to bring you the top airlines prioritizing your security. From Hawaiian Airlines’ spotless track record to Delta’s unwavering reliability, these carriers are setting the gold standard in aviation safety. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your dream vacation, this list ensures you’ll take to the skies with total peace of mind. Let’s explore the safest ways to travel today!

The Safest Airlines in the US (Right Now)

Before we dive into our list of the safest airlines in the US, it’s important to recognize a fundamental truth: flying in America is incredibly safe. Every airline operating in the US adheres to stringent safety standards set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These standards ensure that regardless of which airline you choose, safety is always the top priority.

From rigorous maintenance checks to comprehensive crew training, every aspect of air travel is meticulously monitored for safety. This commitment to safety means that incidents are exceptionally rare.

So, as we explore the best airlines in the US, remember that you’re choosing from a pool of carriers that are already among the safest in the world.

Now, let’s embark on our journey through the safest airlines in 2025, starting with Hawaiian Airlines. This carrier not only promises a journey filled with the Aloha spirit but also an impressive safety record that’s hard to beat. Let’s dive in!

1. 🇺🇸 Hawaiian Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Honolulu (HNL), Kahului Maui (OGG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Extra Comfort, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: HawaiianMiles (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Island hospitality, complimentary meals, tropical ambiance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Hawaiian’s “Neighbor Island” pass lets you add unlimited inter-island flights for $99 over 30 days. You’ll also get access to discounted car rentals and hotels across the islands.

Hawaiian Airlines has been flying safely across the Pacific since 1929, and in all that time, they’ve never had a single fatal accident. Like, ever. That kind of safety record stands out, especially when you’re flying hundreds of miles over open ocean. Their pilots are experts at navigating island routes, and their aircraft undergo extra inspections due to Hawaii’s challenging weather and salty coastal air.

Climb aboard Hawaiian’s A330s or A321neos and you’ll immediately feel that aloha spirit, but also notice they don’t mess around with safety stuff. Flight attendants actually make the safety briefing interesting (bonus points for the Hawaiian music), and the cabins feel well-maintained rather than held together with duct tape and prayers. Extra Comfort gives you room to breathe with 36-inch legroom, while First Class on longer routes offers lie-flat beds that help you arrive in Hawaii actually rested.

HawaiianMiles might not be connected to the big airline alliances, but their operational reliability is rock-solid. Fewer delays, better weather planning (they’ve been dealing with Pacific storms since forever), and aircraft that get extra TLC because of all that salt air. Pualani Gold status gets you priority boarding and lounge access where you can chill before flights.

What makes Hawaiian special isn’t just their perfect safety record. It’s how they’ve built an entire culture around getting people safely to and from paradise. Pilots train constantly for over-water emergencies, planes get inspected more frequently than mainland airlines, and they’ve mastered flying in Hawaii’s tricky weather patterns. 

Insider Tip: Looking to fly to Hawaii on the cheap? I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $479 roundtrip fare from Boston to Honolulu with Hawaiian 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.

2. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP), New York JFK, Seattle (SEA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Reliable operations, extensive network, solid customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Take advantage of Delta’s 24-hour risk-free cancellation. Lock in low fares when you see them, then cancel within a day if plans change or a better deal pops up.

Delta has earned its reputation as one of the most dependable airlines in the U.S., and its safety record is a big part of that. No fatal accidents since 1996, plus they’ve invested billions in pilot training, fleet modernization, and maintenance facilities that look more like high-tech laboratories than your typical airplane garage.

Board any Delta aircraft and you’ll notice everything feels solid and well-maintained, from their Boeing 737s on domestic routes to those massive A350s crossing oceans. Comfort+ actually delivers with extra legroom and priority boarding, while Premium Select offers lie-flat adjacent seats that make long flights bearable. On international routes, Delta One delivers lie-flat seating and attentive service without the formality of some legacy competitors. The flight crews are consistently professional, and the overall onboard experience reflects a company that runs smoothly behind the scenes.

Delta’s SkyMiles program pairs well with its reliable flight network. Silver Medallion status includes early boarding and free checked bags, while Gold, Platinum, and Diamond levels unlock perks like lounge access and complimentary upgrades that actually happen. More importantly, Delta’s on-time performance means you’re less likely to miss those carefully planned connections.

What sets Delta apart isn’t just the lack of accidents, but the way the airline anticipates and avoids problems altogether. The airline’s aircraft are equipped with the latest safety tech, their pilots undergo extensive simulator training, and they’ve built a predictive maintenance system that keeps planes in top shape. 

3. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Miami (MIA), Phoenix (PHX), Philadelphia (PHL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Flagship Business, Flagship First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Extensive network, Flagship lounges, reliable operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use the “Same Day Flight Change” for $75 on domestic routes. If your original flight gets delayed, you can hop on earlier flights and avoid longer wait times.

American Airlines has seriously cleaned up their act over the past decade, with a safety record that’s become genuinely impressive. No fatal accidents since 2001, plus they’ve modernized their entire fleet and overhauled their maintenance operations after some rough years in the early 2000s. AA’s pilots now undergo some of the industry’s most rigorous training programs.

Onboard the airline’s Boeing 737s or Airbus A321s, you’ll find aircraft that feel solid and well-maintained. Gone are the days of duct-taped seat cushions and flickering overhead lights, their newer planes actually look and feel modern. Premium Economy offers decent comfort upgrades, while Flagship Business on long-haul routes features lie-flat seats that work properly. Flight crews seem more professional these days, probably because AA’s improved operational performance means fewer frustrated passengers.

AAdvantage through Oneworld gives you access to solid partners like British Airways and Cathay Pacific, but the real benefit is AA’s improved reliability meaning your connections actually work. Elite Gold gets you priority boarding and free bags, while Platinum unlocks decent lounge access and upgrades that sometimes clear. 

American’s safety turnaround has been pretty remarkable as they’ve invested billions in new aircraft, upgraded maintenance facilities, and completely revamped their safety management systems. Plus, their hub operations in Dallas and Charlotte handle massive volumes efficiently, pilots get continuous training on the latest safety protocols, and their fleet modernization means you’re flying on planes with current safety technology. 

4. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), Denver (DEN), Washington Dulles (IAD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Global network, Star Alliance benefits, improved service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Download United’s mobile application. You’ll get access to exclusive upgrade offers and seat deals that often aren’t available online, including occasional free Premium Plus upgrades.

United has quietly built one of the industry’s strongest safety records after going through their own rough patch in the 2010s. No fatal accidents since 1997, and they’ve completely transformed their safety culture with new leadership, modernized fleets, and maintenance programs that actually work. 

Inside United’s Boeing 737s, 787s, or A350s, you’ll find cabins that feel significantly better than they did five years ago. The seatback screens, power outlets, and WiFi tend to work consistently, and even in Economy, the atmosphere feels less stressful. Premium Plus offers genuinely comfortable seats with extra legroom, while Polaris Business features solid lie-flat beds on international routes. Flight attendants also seem noticeably more relaxed, which goes a long way.

MileagePlus is a solid program for international flyers, especially with access to Star Alliance partners like Lufthansa, ANA, and Singapore Airlines. Even entry-level Premier Silver status comes with free checked bags and earlier boarding. Higher tiers get you into lounges and unlock more seat upgrade opportunities, especially on longer trips.

United’s safety transformation has been pretty impressive. They’ve modernized their entire long-haul fleet, upgraded maintenance facilities across all hubs, and implemented predictive maintenance systems that catch problems before they become emergencies. United learned some hard lessons and has genuinely improved their safety culture and operational performance.

5. 🇺🇸 Frontier Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Denver (DEN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Stretch Seating
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Frontier Miles (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low fares, animal-themed aircraft, basic transportation
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Add the “Works Bundle” during booking. It includes a carry-on bag, seat selection, and priority boarding, and usually costs less than buying each separately.

Frontier may be the punchline of a lot of airline jokes, but here’s the thing: this budget airline’s safety record is strong. They’ve never had a fatal accident in the modern era and they fly one of the youngest fleets in the country. Most of their planes are part of the Airbus A320 family, loaded with current safety systems and maintained to FAA standards.

Climb aboard Frontier’s animal-themed planes and you’ll find cabins that are… functional. The seats are thin and the legroom is tight, but everything works and the aircraft feel safe. Stretch Seating offers extra legroom for a fee, which is basically necessary unless you’re under 5’6″. The flight crews are professional about safety procedures, even if they’re not going to bring you free snacks or pretend your budget fare includes luxury service.

Frontier Miles keeps things straightforward. You earn miles, use them for flights, and there’s no complicated elite status structure to figure out. While the program doesn’t offer much in terms of perks, it fits the Frontier model well. Most people fly them for cheap, direct routes, not for luxury upgrades anyway.

Frontier’s safety approach is straightforward. They operate young, well-maintained aircraft with experienced pilots and follow all FAA regulations without cutting corners on the important stuff. Their Denver hub operations are efficient, maintenance standards meet industry requirements, and their pilots undergo the same training as legacy carriers. Sure, you’ll pay extra for everything from seat selection to carry-on bags, but when Frontier gets you safely from point A to point B for $39, who’s complaining?

6. 🇺🇸 Southwest Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas Love Field (DAL), Phoenix (PHX), Baltimore (BWI), Denver (DEN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (open seating), Business Select
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Rapid Rewards (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Free bags, no change fees, open seating, Southwest hospitality
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Set a reminder to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight. Since Southwest uses open seating, early check-in helps you score better seats without paying extra.

Southwest has one of the best safety records in the industry, with just one fatal accident in their 50+ year history (back in 2018). What makes them special isn’t just the numbers, it’s their safety culture that treats every flight crew like family and every passenger like they matter. Their pilots are among the most experienced in the industry, and maintenance teams are known for being meticulous.

Board any Southwest Boeing 737 and you’ll notice things are simple but consistent. The open seating thing feels chaotic until you realize it actually speeds up boarding and gets planes in the air faster. Business Select gets you priority boarding, a free drink, and extra Rapid Rewards points, but honestly, the Regular seats are comfortable for most flights. And while the flight attendants are known for their humor, they take safety seriously when it matters most.

The Rapid Rewards is refreshingly simple. No blackout dates, no expiring points, and you can cancel flights without fees. A-List status gets you priority boarding and free WiFi, while A-List Preferred adds bonus points and priority security lanes. The program works because Southwest actually operates reliably, so your connections and reservations don’t fall apart.

One reason Southwest stands out in terms of safety is their focus on simplicity. By sticking with one aircraft type, their crews are deeply familiar with every system on board. Maintenance is streamlined, training is consistent, and the culture encourages speaking up if something seems off. It’s not flashy, but it works.

7. 🇺🇸 JetBlue Airways

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK, Boston Logan (BOS), Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Core (Economy), Even More Space, Mint (Premium)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TrueBlue (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Free WiFi, spacious seats, live TV, complimentary snacks
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re flying Mint or have Mosaic status, take advantage of JetBlue’s “Even More Speed” perk. It lets you use expedited security lanes at busy airports like JFK and Boston, often cutting wait times in half.

JetBlue has maintained an impressive safety record since starting operations in 2000. No fatal accidents, and they’ve built their entire operation around newer aircraft and rigorous safety standards. The airline’s Airbus A320 and A321 family planes are among the youngest in the US, with state-of-the-art safety systems and maintenance programs that exceed industry standards.

The cabin experience is one of JetBlue’s biggest strengths. Even in Core, you get more legroom than most legacy carriers. The seats are comfortable, the entertainment actually works, and everything feels fresh and modern. Even More Space adds comfort for taller travelers, while Mint offers a premium transcontinental experience with lie-flat seats, sliding doors, and restaurant-quality meals. Crews are friendly but attentive, balancing personality with professionalism.

TrueBlue keeps things simple. Points never expire, there are no blackout dates, and Mosaic status unlocks solid perks like early boarding, complimentary drinks, and fee waivers. You can even upgrade to better seats without jumping through hoops, and the program actually rewards frequent fliers with usable benefits.

Behind the scenes, JetBlue prioritizes safety in everything they do. Pilots train regularly on advanced Airbus simulators, and their tech investments in weather tracking and route planning help avoid problem areas before they happen. Operations at JFK, Boston, and Fort Lauderdale are tightly run, and their modern fleet gives passengers extra peace of mind. 

8. 🇺🇸 Allegiant Air

• 🏠 Hub: Las Vegas (LAS), plus focus cities across smaller US markets
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Legroom+ seating
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: myAllegiant Rewards (no major alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low base fares, direct routes to vacation destinations, simple operation
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Allegiant’s “Total” bundle often saves money and stress. For a single price, you get a carry-on, seat selection, and priority boarding without getting surprised by fees later.

Allegiant used to make headlines for the wrong reasons, but they’ve made real progress since being flagged by the FAA in 2018. The airline has ramped up their safety protocols, improved maintenance practices, and invested in pilot training to meet stricter operational standards. Most of their fleet consists of Airbus A320s, which are now better maintained, and their safety metrics have improved dramatically… though they’re still working to rebuild their reputation.

The onboard experience is about as no-frills as it gets. Seats are thin and legroom is limited unless you pay extra, but the basics are covered. Crews take safety seriously, and the aircraft meet FAA standards even if they lack some of the polish you’ll find on larger carriers. Legroom+ is worth it if you’re tall or flying longer distances.

The myAllegiant Rewards program is simple and functional. You won’t find elite tiers or fancy upgrades, but you can earn points on flights and travel packages. Since most passengers use Allegiant for quick leisure trips rather than business travel, the bare-bones program suits their needs.

Where Allegiant really shines is in offering nonstop routes between smaller cities and popular vacation spots. Whether you’re flying from Des Moines to Las Vegas or from Allentown to Orlando, they cut out connections and offer safe, direct service at prices that are hard to beat. The luxury may be limited, but for vacationers focused on budget and convenience, Allegiant now delivers with much more confidence in their safety record than they did a few years ago.

9. 🇺🇸 Alaska Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Seattle (SEA), Anchorage (ANC), Portland (PDX), Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Premium Class, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Mileage Plan (Oneworld alliance)
• ☕ Perks: West Coast focus, excellent customer service, generous loyalty program
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re flying on a longer route, book Premium Class during check-in rather than at booking. Alaska often releases these seats for a steep discount 24 hours before departure, especially on flights with extra availability.

Alaska Airlines consistently ranks among the safest carriers in the U.S., with a reputation built from decades of flying in Alaska’s rugged, unpredictable environments. They haven’t had a fatal accident since 2000, and their operations demand top-tier safety due to the conditions they routinely face. That background shaped a culture where safety comes first, always.

Step inside Alaska’s Boeing 737s or Airbus A320s and you’ll notice the difference. Cabins are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Premium Class offers more legroom and free drinks, while First Class brings upgraded meals and spacious seating on longer flights. The crews strike a balance between warm, West Coast friendliness and sharp professionalism, especially when it comes to safety protocols.

Mileage Plan remains one of the most rewarding programs out there. You earn miles based on distance rather than ticket cost, which makes a big difference on longer routes. MVP status brings free checked bags and priority boarding, while MVP Gold and beyond offer regular upgrades and solid partner redemptions. It’s a rare loyalty program that still feels generous.

Alaska’s safety excellence comes from necessity. Operating in Alaska’s harsh weather and rugged terrain means pilots are trained to handle difficult conditions that would challenge most carriers. Maintenance teams in Seattle, Anchorage, and other hubs are known for precision and care, with a focus on early issue detection through advanced diagnostics.

10. 🇺🇸 Envoy Air

• 🏠 Hub: Operating as American Eagle from Dallas (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Miami (MIA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, First Class (on select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage (through American Airlines)
• ☕ Perks: American Airlines integration, reliable regional service, newer aircraft
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When booking on American’s site, filter for “American Eagle” to make sure you’re flying Envoy and earning full AAdvantage miles, upgrades, and elite status credit.

Envoy Air, operating under the American Eagle brand, brings major airline safety standards to shorter regional routes. They’ve had no recent fatal accidents, and as a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines, Envoy follows the same strict training, maintenance, and safety protocols. That means when you fly with Envoy, you’re getting American’s oversight and resources wrapped into a smaller package.

Board Envoy’s Embraer E175s and you’ll find aircraft that feel surprisingly spacious for regional jets. The 2-2 seating configuration means no dreaded middle seats, legroom is decent for shorter flights, and First Class on select routes offers genuine comfort upgrades with enhanced meal service. Flight crews maintain the same professional standards as American Airlines mainline, with safety procedures that mirror major carrier protocols.

AAdvantage members won’t miss out either. Since Envoy operates within American’s system, you’ll earn miles and status credits just like any other AA flight. Entry-level elites get early boarding and a free checked bag, while upper-tier members enjoy upgrades that often clear more easily on regional legs. It’s a smooth experience from check-in to arrival.

Envoy succeeds by combining small-airport convenience with large-airline safety. From pilot training to aircraft upkeep, everything follows American’s standards. Their routes feed directly into major hubs, helping travelers reach smaller cities without compromising on safety or loyalty benefits. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Safest American Airlines

Are you still curious about which airline in the US is the safest to fly? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help answer your queries.

What is the most trusted airline in America?

The best airline in America often fluctuates, but based on customer satisfaction and safety records, Delta Airlines frequently tops the list. In my experience, Delta’s commitment to customer service and their impressive safety record contribute significantly to this trust. They have a history of minimal incidents and a focus on continuous improvement in safety measures.

Which airline has never had a crash in the US?

Hawaiian Airlines stands out as an airline that has never had a fatal crash in its history. This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering they’ve been operating since 1929. Their focus on safety, top-notch crew training, and modern fleet maintenance make them a standout in terms of safety.

What airline has crashed the most?

Historically, American Airlines has experienced a higher number of crashes compared to other major U.S. carriers. However, it’s crucial to put this in context. American Airlines is one of the largest airlines globally, and when you consider the volume of flights they operate, the percentage of incidents is relatively low. Plus, their safety measures and protocols have evolved significantly over the years.

What is the world’s safest airline in 2025?

As of 2025, Qantas is often cited as the world’s safest airline. This Australian carrier has a legendary safety record, with no fatal jet airliner accidents in its history. Their commitment to safety, innovative use of technology, and rigorous training programs set them apart on the global stage.

Safest US airlines to fly with in 2025: Recap

Choosing a safe airline is a key part of stress-free travel. Whether you’re flying Hawaiian Airlines, Delta, or Alaska Airlines, you can rest assured knowing these carriers are among the safest in the skies. Ready to book your next trip? Check out these airlines’ routes and deals today!

• Looking to save big on air travel this year? Don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deals on flights in 2025!