What Made Delta Air Lines The Superior Legacy Carrier Of 2025?

Whether you barely flew last year or are a seasoned industry research analyst, there is no hiding from the fact that Delta Air Lines emerged from 2025 as the most successful US legacy carrier. The airline is well-known for its industry-leading premium brand and identity as a carrier for those who care about comfort and the overall passenger experience. However, the airline has faced some competitive challenges in recent years, most notably from United Airlines, which has sought to challenge Delta’s position at the top of the premium market. United has gone out of its way to launch new flights from airports that are large hubs for corporate travelers and are common jumping-off points for high-yielding leisure travelers. This has pushed Delta to reconsider its domestic strategy and evaluate how it will protect yields and passenger loyalty.