Delta Air Lines vs Southwest Airlines

By Billy G. · Founder & Lead EditorVerified Jul 6 by Billy G.

Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines

Verdict: Delta Air Lines outperforms on network size and international reach with 325+ destinations versus Southwest's 120+ (per airline reports). Southwest wins on domestic value with two free bags and no change fees. Delta takes the edge for most travelers needing connections or global flights.

Winner: Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines: 8.2/10

Southwest Airlines: 7.1/10

Spec-by-spec comparison

Delta Air LinesSouthwest Airlines
HubsAtlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, Salt Lake CityDallas Love Field, Denver, Chicago Midway
Fleet Size950+800+
Destinations Served325+120+
On-Time Performance80%75%

Delta Air Lines

What works

  • Extensive international route network
  • Strong hub connectivity for connections
  • Higher average on-time arrival rate

What doesn't

  • Basic economy has strict change fees
  • Fewer free checked bags than Southwest

Southwest Airlines

What works

  • Two free checked bags included
  • No change fees on most fares
  • Point-to-point routing reduces layovers

What doesn't

  • Limited international destinations
  • Smaller overall network outside US

Bottom line

Our pick: Delta Air Lines.

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