We Were NOT Expecting This Popular Budget Airline To Win Best of 2026

When it comes to choosing which airline is right for you, there is A LOT to consider — but this list of Best Airlines of 2026 just might make it a bit easier!

WalletHub recently released its top airlines of the year, and we must say, we’re a little shocked at who the Best Overall Airline is for 2026. Spirit Airlines took the top spot out of the 9 largest U.S. airlines, plus two regional carriers, across 16 important metrics.

WalletHub recently released its Best Airlines of 2026 findings, and you might be shocked to see how your favorite carrier ranks among the rest. The comparisons were made across 16 important metrics, including cancellation and delay rates, baggage mishaps, and in-flight comfort. They also considered costs in relation to in-flight amenities for the sake of fairness — like not penalizing an airline that charges for drinks if its tickets are cheaper than those from an airline with free in-flight refreshments.

So, curious to see how your favorite airline fared? Check out the list for Best Overall Airline below:

1. Spirit Airlines
2. Southwest Airlines
3. Skywest Airlines
4. Alaska Airlines
5. Hawaiian Airlines
6. JetBlue Airways
7. Delta Air Lines
8. American Airlines
9. Frontier Airlines
10. United Airlines
11. Envoy Air

Spirit Airlines ranked first overall, along with taking the top spots for Most Affordable Airline and Most Reliable Airline. There were some other individual categories as well, the results of which you can see below:

• Most Comfortable Airline — JetBlue Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines
• Best Airline for Pets — SkyWest Airlines and Envoy Air
• Safest Airline — Frontier Airlines

The report noted that Spirit Airlines had the lowest rate of cancellations, delays, mishandled luggage, and denied boardings. The airlines that were noted as most comfortable featured in-flight experiences, free Wi-Fi, extra legroom, and complimentary snacks and beverages.

Spirit Airlines took the top spot overall and for affordability last year as well, while Delta was named most reliable. So, where did your favorite airline fall on this list?!

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Have you flown with Spirit Airlines recently? Let us know in the comments below!