What is a US flag carrier?
A US flag carrier is an airline that is designated by the government to operate flights on behalf of the United States. These airlines are a symbol of the country and are responsible for carrying the flag on their aircraft. Being a US flag carrier is an honor and a privilege, as it allows the airline to operate international flights to and from the United States.
Criteria for being a US flag carrier
To be designated as a US flag carrier, an airline must meet certain criteria set by the government. These criteria include being a US citizen, being majority-owned by US citizens, having its principal place of business in the United States, and having at least 75% of its voting interest owned or controlled by US citizens. Additionally, the airline must have the capacity to provide air transportation that is safe, reliable, and efficient.
American Airlines: The largest US flag carrier
American Airlines is the largest US flag carrier by fleet size, revenue, and passengers carried. It operates a vast network of domestic and international flights, serving more than 350 destinations in over 50 countries. American Airlines is a legacy carrier and a member of the Oneworld alliance.
Delta Air Lines: Another major US flag carrier
Delta Air Lines is another major US flag carrier, operating a comprehensive network of domestic and international flights. It is the second-largest US airline by fleet size, revenue, and passengers carried. Delta Air Lines is a legacy carrier and a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance.
United Airlines: A legacy US flag carrier
United Airlines is a legacy US flag carrier, operating a vast network of domestic and international flights. It is the third-largest US airline by fleet size, revenue, and passengers carried. United Airlines is a member of the Star Alliance.
Hawaiian Airlines: A specialized US flag carrier
Hawaiian Airlines is a specialized US flag carrier, operating flights to and from the Hawaiian Islands. It is the largest airline based in Hawaii and operates a network of domestic and international flights. Hawaiian Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance.
Alaska Airlines: A regional US flag carrier
Alaska Airlines is a regional US flag carrier, operating flights to and from the West Coast of the United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. It is the fifth-largest US airline by fleet size, revenue, and passengers carried. Alaska Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance.
JetBlue Airways: A domestic US flag carrier
JetBlue Airways is a domestic US flag carrier, operating flights to and from cities across the United States. It is known for its low fares and high-quality customer service. JetBlue Airways is not a member of any airline alliance.
Southwest Airlines: Another domestic US flag carrier
Southwest Airlines is another domestic US flag carrier, operating flights to and from cities across the United States. It is known for its low fares and no-frills service. Southwest Airlines is not a member of any airline alliance.
Frontier Airlines: A low-cost US flag carrier
Frontier Airlines is a low-cost US flag carrier, operating flights to and from cities across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It is known for its low fares and a la carte pricing. Frontier Airlines is not a member of any airline alliance.
Spirit Airlines: A budget US flag carrier
Spirit Airlines is a budget US flag carrier, operating flights to and from cities across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It is known for its low fares and a la carte pricing. Spirit Airlines is not a member of any airline alliance.
Sun Country Airlines: A leisure US flag carrier
Sun Country Airlines is a leisure US flag carrier, operating flights to and from cities across the United States and Mexico. It is known for its low fares and vacation packages. Sun Country Airlines is not a member of any airline alliance.
Conclusion: Which US flag carrier is right for you?
There are many US flag carriers to choose from, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. If you are looking for a large network of domestic and international flights, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines are good choices. If you are looking for low fares and no-frills service, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines are good choices. If you are planning a vacation, Sun Country Airlines may be a good choice. Ultimately, the right US flag carrier for you will depend on your travel needs and preferences.
