America’s favorite airline for 2026 has been revealed — here’s which flyer held onto the top spot

There's something so revealing about which airline you stay devoted to, something that speaks directly to what you value and appreciate. That's why AirlineRatings.com and its 2026 Flyers’ Choice Awards are so compelling: It's all based on passenger votes.

Singapore Airlines was the biggest winner globally, taking home four awards: Preferred Economy Airline, Best Cabin Crew, Best Airline in Central and Southeast Asia and Airline That Gave the Greatest Peace of Mind. The awards drew approximately 40,000 verified votes from travelers around the world. 

But for American travelers, the most relevant result is closer to home. Delta Air Lines has once again been named the preferred airline in the USA and Canada, beating United and American Airlines. (The three U.S. carriers took the top three spots in that order.) 

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That means Delta is officially the airline that travelers in the region would most like to fly. Or rather, it's the airline that the people who voted would most like to fly. And while these awards shouldn't be confused with a scientific ranking of airline performance, there's something telling about seeing what passengers prefer.

The distinction matters. AirlineRatings says its other major awards, including World's Safest Airlines and World's Best Airline, are judged by its editorial team using specific criteria. The Flyers' Choice Awards, meanwhile, are based entirely on passenger feedback. 

The global results also offer some useful guidance if you're plotting an international trip. Qatar Airways took Preferred Business Class, thanks in part to its long-running Qsuite, while Emirates won Preferred Premium Economy. Singapore Airlines took Preferred Economy, and its cabin crew also topped that category.

For travelers who care about aesthetics, Vietnam Airlines won Best Aircraft Livery, while Vietjet Air won both Favourite Low-Cost Carrier and Best Cabin Crew Uniform. 

So, yes, Americans have spoken. If you're flying domestically, Delta is apparently the airline to beat. And if you're ready to leave the country, the rest of the world has supplied a pretty compelling shortlist.