Airlines with most flight delays and flight cancellations in 2024

Nov 07 2024 MFR travel team

As the airline industry bounces back, from the disruptions caused by the pandemics impact on travel behavior patterns are changing among passengers regarding airlines reliability in managing flight schedules. In 2024 some airlines are facing difficulties in maintaining their timeliness which has left travelers feeling frustrated and inconvenienced. By knowing which airlines are struggling with flight delays and flight cancellations passengers can make informed choices and be ready, for any potential hassles while planning their journeys. This article will delve into the challenges that certain airlines have encountered in 2024 based on insights gleaned from a variety of aviation reports.

Overview of airline performance metrics

Airline delays and cancellations can arise from a range of reasons such, as issues, weather conditions, staffing shortages and challenges, with air traffic control. Industry analysts frequently assess airline performance by examining:

On-time performance (OTP): The percentage of flights that arrive at their destination on time (typically defined as within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival).

Cancellation rate: The percentage of scheduled flights that are canceled.

Airlines that frequently report high delay and cancellation rates can affect not just passengers' immediate travel plans but also their overall reputation in the industry.

Top airlines with flight delays in 2024

Based on data from aviation analytics and monitoring agencies, here are some of the airlines that have experienced significant delays in 2024:

1. American Airlines

American Airlines encountered a big amount of flight delays in the year 2024 with an, on time performance rate of 70%. Several reasons led to these delays such as weather conditions impacting airports and operational difficulties due, to insufficient staff numbers. Despite the airlines attempts to enhance its service dependability travelers often mention experiencing extended wait times and disrupted flights during peak travel periods.

2. Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is famous, for its ticket prices and welcoming customer service reputation. However 2024 has presented challenges with punctuality issues affecting the airlines performance on flight arrivals schedules. The companys on time performance (OTP) stood at 68% ranking it among the airlines most affected by delays due to a combination of glitches and weather related interruptions causing operational disruptions. Travelers using Southwest have expressed frustration, over delays experienced during peak holiday travel times.

3. Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has long been known for its punctuality in the past. However in 2024 it faced some difficulties due to its on time performance hovering at 75%. The airline had to deal with disruptions caused by staffing shortages and the ongoing process of recovering from changes related to the situation. Though Delta is typically considered dependable by people some passengers voiced their discontent over delays and inadequate communication, during hitches.

4. United Airlines

In 2024 United Airlines disclosed an, on time performance rate around 73% showing a decrease from years due to factors like weather conditions in the Midwest and Northeast leading to multiple flight delays and cancellations. Furthermore operational hurdles and a decrease in flight schedules have worsened the situation resulting in passengers facing extended waiting periods along with choices, for rescheduling their flights.

5. Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines faces changes in its punctuality due to being a budget airline carrier frequently affected by factors such as increased travel demand in 2024. This results in about a 65% on time performance rate influenced by challenges and maintenance problems passengers may encounter delays during busy travel periods despite the airlines affordable ticket prices ensure readiness, for potential disruptions.

Top airlines with flight cancellations in 2024

While delays are a common concern, cancellations can be even more frustrating for travelers. Here are some airlines that have faced higher cancellation rates in 2024:

1. Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines has announced a cancellation rate of around 5 percent in the year 2024 as a low cost carrier option, in the airline industry sector akin to its competitors. Despite providing pricing options to travelers on its routes, it has faced difficulties, like insufficient crew staffing and maintenance related holdups. These can impact flight operations negatively resulting in increased chances of flight cancellations during peak travel periods.

2. Alaska Airlines

Many travelers have long admired Alaska Airlines for its customer service and extensive route options; nevertheless in 2024 it encountered a cancellation rate of 4%. Various reasons for these cancellations involve weather conditions impacting its Pacific routes and difficulties, with staffing levels. Aspects that passengers should bear in mind when choosing to fly with Alaska Airlines.

3. JetBlue Airways

JetBlue Airlines has had its share of flight cancellations in 2024 with a cancellation rate of 3%. Despite being known for its top notch customer service reputation JetBlues operations have been affected by disruptions and weather related challenges. Travelers may encounter flight cancellations, in weather conditions leading to substantial disruptions, to their travel schedules.

4. Allegiant Air

Allegiant Air is famous, for offering budget flights to airports, however in 2024 they experienced a cancellation rate of 4%. Due to its approach the airline encounters difficulties that contribute to increased cancellations which travelers should be ready for especially, during busy travel periods.

How to prepare for potential delays and cancellations

Travelers can take several proactive steps to minimize the impact of delays and cancellations:

• Check flight status: Always check your flight status prior to leaving for the airport. Most airlines provide real-time updates via their websites and mobile apps.
• Book direct flights: If possible, book direct flights to reduce the risk of missing connections due to delays.
• Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in, pass through security, and deal with any unexpected issues that may arise.
• Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as a passenger, especially if flying within the EU, where EU 261/2004 provides specific protections.
• Consider travel insurance: Travel insurance can provide additional peace of mind, offering coverage for delays, cancellations, and unexpected travel disruptions.

Flight delays and flight cancellations: Conclusion

In 2024, air travel remains unpredictable for many passengers, with certain airlines facing higher rates of delays and cancellations. American Airlines, Southwest, and Spirit are among those experiencing significant operational challenges. As travelers navigate these disruptions, understanding their rights and preparing adequately can help mitigate the frustrations associated with flight delays and cancellations.

While the airline industry continues to recover, staying informed about airline performance can empower passengers to make smarter travel decisions, ensuring a smoother journey despite the inevitable bumps along the way. And if you as a passenger are affected by a flight delay or a flight cancellation, you can always contact us at MYFLYRIGHT – your experts for passenger rights. We specialize in assisting air passengers with claiming compensation for flight delays, flight cancellations and denied boarding under EU Regulation 261/2004. We handle the entire claim process on your behalf, from documentation to dealing directly with the airline, saving you time and effort. With our expertise in passenger rights and experience with airline regulations, MYFLYRIGHT increases your chances of receiving the compensation you’re entitled to, even in cases where airlines might initially reject claims.