Are you on the hunt for affordable domestic flights? The rise of low-cost carriers has made it easier than ever to find budget-friendly airfare. However, not all budget airlines are created equal. While the price may be low, the overall flying experience can vary significantly. In this article, we'll explore the best and worst budget airlines for US domestic flights, helping you make informed decisions about your travel plans.
Before we dive into the airlines, let's clarify what it means to be a "low-cost" or "ultra-low-cost" carrier. The term "low-cost" refers to airlines that prioritize reducing overhead costs, which can lead to lower airfares for passengers. However, it doesn't necessarily mean they always offer better prices than full-service legacy carriers. On the other hand, "ultra-low-cost" carriers take cost-cutting to the extreme, offering drastically lower fares by minimizing amenities and charging for additional services.
Let's explore the best and worst budget airlines for US domestic flights.
The Best Budget Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is a well-known and highly regarded budget airline. With over 50 years of operation, Southwest offers flights to 103 cities across the United States. The airline provides a pleasant flying experience with amenities like complimentary snacks and beverages, free streaming entertainment, and generous baggage policies. Southwest also stands out with its unique boarding process, where passengers can choose any open seat upon boarding.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways started as a low-cost airline and has since evolved to offer a mix of budget-friendly fares and amenities usually associated with legacy carriers. With a wide network covering nearly 100 cities in the US and international destinations, JetBlue provides comfortable seats, free in-flight snacks and beverages, seat-back entertainment, and free WiFi. JetBlue's partner airlines also make it easier to explore beyond their own network.
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Avelo Airlines
Avelo Airlines is a relatively new player in the budget airline market, but it has quickly gained attention for its affordable fares and customer-friendly approach. Avelo focuses on point-to-point flights, serving smaller airports close to popular vacation destinations. While additional fees apply for services like carry-on bags and seat selection, Avelo offers reasonable pricing and provides a good flying experience, especially for leisure travelers.
Delta Airlines
As one of the oldest airlines in the US, Delta Air Lines operates from its base in Atlanta, Georgia, and provides service to over 20 major cities nationwide. What sets Delta apart is its loyalty program, SkyMiles®, which allows passengers to earn miles that can be redeemed for future flights, helping to offset travel costs. Moreover, Delta offers vacation packages that can help travelers save on expenses when planning a domestic getaway within the US.
Breeze Airways
Breeze Airways, formerly known as Moxy Airways, is another newcomer that focuses on serving smaller airports with point-to-point flights. Breeze offers competitive fares and provides multiple fare classes to choose from. While additional fees apply for services like carry-on bags and seat selection, Breeze's base fares include a personal item, and higher fare classes offer added benefits such as extra legroom, priority boarding, and in-flight snacks.
The Worst Budget Airlines
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is known for pioneering the extreme nickel-and-diming approach, where the initial low fare is offset by numerous additional fees. Spirit charges for carry-on bags, checked bags, seat selection, and snacks and beverages. The airline's seat pitch is minimal, and its customer service is often criticized. However, if you're willing to forego extras and can fit your belongings in a small personal item, Spirit can still offer cost savings for those who prioritize price over comfort.
Sun Country Airlines
Sun Country Airlines, despite its catchy name, falls short when it comes to the overall flying experience. While the airline offers a variety of destinations, it charges additional fees for checked bags, carry-on bags, seat selection, and even snacks and beverages. Sun Country's seat pitch is below average, and its limited fleet and destination network can lead to scheduling limitations and potential delays.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines, similar to Spirit, operates as an ultra-low-cost carrier. While the initial fares may seem attractive, additional fees quickly add up. Frontier charges for carry-on bags, checked bags, seat selection, and in-flight snacks and beverages. The airline's seat pitch is below average, and its limited flexibility in terms of flight schedules can be a drawback for travelers. However, if you're willing to navigate the fee structure and prioritize affordability, Frontier can still be an option.
Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air, with its extensive route network, primarily serves smaller airports. However, the airline's cost-saving measures come at a price for passengers. Allegiant charges for carry-on bags, checked bags, seat selection, and in-flight snacks and beverages. Their seats do not recline, and their fee structure includes charges for services like making reservations online or printing boarding passes at the airport. Allegiant's focus on secondary airports can also be inconvenient for those looking for direct access to major cities.
While these airlines may not meet our standards for a great flying experience, it doesn't mean you should never consider them. In certain situations, such as when the price is the primary concern or when flying to specific destinations served by these airlines, they can still be viable options. Just be sure to carefully review their fees and policies and weigh the trade-offs between price and comfort.
In conclusion, When it comes to budget airlines for US domestic flights, Southwest Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Delta Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Breeze Airways stand out as the best options. They offer a balance of affordability and a more pleasant flying experience.
On the other hand, Sun Country Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Allegiant Air fall short in terms of overall customer satisfaction and additional fees. As always, it's essential to consider your priorities and preferences when choosing an airline for your domestic travel needs.
Remember to check out Going for exclusive deals on domestic flights, ensuring you get the best value for your money. Happy travels!
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