Delta Airlines vs. Alaska Airlines: The Ultimate Comparison Guide

When it comes to choosing an airline, two of the most prominent U.S.-based carriers come to mind: Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines. Both airlines serve diverse passenger needs, but they differ significantly in terms of network reach, frequent flyer programs, credit card perks, and in-flight experience. Whether you are looking at a decision between Delta Airlines vs. Alaska Airlines, this guide will walk you through what you need to know for your next trip.

Delta Air Lines vs. Alaska Airlines: Destinations and Connectivity

Although smaller in size, Alaska Airlines is a significant player on the West Coast of the United States. The airline serves 120 domestic destinations and offers international connectivity to seven countries. Being part of the Oneworld Alliance, Alaska Airlines connects passengers to more than 900 destinations around the world.

International Destinations of Alaska Airlines:

• Bahamas
• Belize
• Canada
• Costa Rica
• Guatemala
• Mexico
• United States

For travelers who value easy regional travel coupled with dependable global connections, Alaska Airlines is certainly a contender.

Delta Air Lines: A Global Powerhouse

The aviation giant Delta Air Lines flies to more than 280 destinations across six continents. Through the SkyTeam Alliance membership, Delta is connected with 17 partner airlines, extending its network to more than 1,000 cities in 170 countries. The airline operates 4,000 flights daily, offering unparalleled connectivity for international travelers.

Domestic Hubs of Delta Air Lines:

• Atlanta
• Los Angeles
• Minneapolis-St. Paul
• Detroit
• Salt Lake City
• New York (JFK)
• Seattle
• Boston

International Hubs of Delta Air Lines:

• Amsterdam
• Seoul
• Mexico City
• Paris-Charles de Gaulle
• London-Heathrow
• Tokyo-Haneda

Delta’s reach in terms of its network coverage and connectivity makes it a traveler’s first choice.

Frequent Flyer Programs: Delta Air Lines vs. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines: Generous and Flexible Mileage Plan

Alaska Airlines‘ Mileage Plan has one of the best frequent flyer programs in the United States. Known for its generous mile-earning rates, Alaska allows flyers to redeem miles for flights, hotels, and car rentals.

• Miles Never Expire: A great benefit for the occasional flyer.
• Award Charts: Transparence in value on partner airline redemptions.
• Elite Status Perks: Priority boarding, free checked bags, and more.
• Mileage Value: Around 1.4 cents per mile, higher than Delta’s.

Delta Air Lines: Full-service SkyMiles Program

Delta’s SkyMiles program is fit for frequent travelers who take off globally and need flexibility. Like Alaska, the miles of Delta never expire; however, the program does not have fixed-value award charts, meaning the redemption values will fluctuate.

• Miles Value: Around 1.2 cents per mile, a little lower than Alaska.
• Medallion Status: Offers upgraded comfort with complimentary upgrades.
• SkyMiles American Express Cards: Add value through bonus miles and other benefits.

For loyalty program value, Alaska edges ahead, but Delta’s SkyMiles is better suited for international travelers.

Delta Air Lines vs. Alaska Airlines: Credit Card Perks

Via its partnership with American Express, Delta has more varied options when it comes to credit cards. Whether you are a casual flyer or a business traveler, Delta has a card that can match your needs.

Key Options:

• Delta SkyMiles® Blue Card: No annual fee, 10,000 Bonus Miles
• Delta SkyMiles® Gold Card: $0 intro (then $150), 40,000 miles
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card: $350 annual fee, 50,000 miles.
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card: $650 annual fee; earn 60,000 miles.

Among Delta cards, they are outstanding for their versatility and for offering a higher potential to earn and redeem miles across different categories.

In-Flight Experience: Delta Air Lines vs. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines: Regional Comfort with Premium Perks

The Airlines caters to comfort and value across its cabin classes:

• Saver Fare: Budget-friendly option with essential amenities.
• Main Cabin: Complimentary snacks and beverages with streaming entertainment.
• Premium Class: Extra legroom, early boarding, and free alcoholic beverages.
• First Class: Priority boarding, complimentary meals, spacious seating, and two free checked bags.

Alaska also offers in-flight internet and access to a wide selection of movies and TV shows, ensuring passengers stay entertained.

Read More: What are the updated Alaska Airlines baggage fees for first class?

Delta Air Lines: Setting the Gold Standard in the Skies

Delta edges out Alaska on the in-flight amenities and services with its emphasis on class and quality:

Basic Economy: Economical fares, fewer frills.

• Main Cabin: Free snacks, beverages, and seat selection.
• Delta Comfort+: More legroom, early boarding, and overhead bin access.
• First Class: Personalized service, ample legroom, and fine dining.
• Delta One ®: Flat-bed seats, fine dining, and dedicated flight attendants – international-only flights.

With unmatched entertainment options, Delta offers free access to Delta Studio, along with fast Wi-Fi for streaming.

Delta Air Lines vs. Alaska Airlines Comparision Table

Read More: A Detailed Guide to Delta Airlines Baggage Policy- Allowance and Restrictions

Conclusion

Which to choose, Delta Airlines or Alaska, Depends on your particular travel needs. Alaska Airlines has a leading regional network, very generous frequent flyer program, and lower fees, which makes it your best choice for domestic travel or a good value from mileage redemptions. On the other hand, Delta Air Lines features a wide-reaching global network, luxury in-flight services, and versatile options in credit card offerings, which will make them more suitable for international travelers and lovers of premium-class service. Your decision should fall based on whether you are focused on affordability with regional exposure or on global connectivity with comfort during the flight.

FAQs

Is Delta Air Lines better for international travel?

Yes, Delta Air Lines is a global powerhouse with an expansive network of over 280 destinations and premium international services, making it an excellent choice for international travelers.

Do miles earned with Delta or Alaska expire?

No, miles earned with both Delta Air Lines (SkyMiles) and Alaska Airlines (Mileage Plan) do not expire.

Which airline offers more destinations: Delta Air Lines or Alaska Airlines?

Delta Air Lines offers significantly more destinations, serving over 280 locations across six continents. Alaska Airlines focuses on regional travel with 120 destinations, mainly in North America and select international countries.

Does Alaska Airlines belong to any airline alliance?

Yes, Alaska Airlines is a member of the Oneworld Alliance, giving passengers access to over 900 destinations through partner airlines.