Delta vs Southwest: Airline Comparison Guide

Deciding between Delta and Southwest? You’re not alone. These two airlines offer very different flying experiences. One puts comfort and premium perks first, while the other keeps things simple and flexible.

From checked bags to credit cards, loyalty perks to cabin layout, this guide breaks it all down to help you choose the airline that fits your trip.

Let’s get into it 👇

✨Quick Answer: Delta or Southwest?

• Delta is ideal if you’re after comfort, seat selection and a more polished travel experience. There’s a wider choice of cabins, upgrade options, and a loyalty program that works well for frequent or international flyers.
• Southwest is better suited to travellers who want simple fares, generous baggage allowances and more freedom to change plans. The laid-back experience and no-frills approach work especially well for domestic trips.

The right airline for you comes down to what you value more - comfort or flexibility.

At a Glance

Delta and Southwest may both be household names in US air travel, but they operate very differently behind the scenes - from global partnerships to where they fly and how they’re rated by travellers.

Airline size and reach 📏

• Delta connects travellers to more than 275 destinations across the US and worldwide. Its network spans Europe, Asia, Latin America and Africa, with hubs in cities like Atlanta, Detroit and Salt Lake City.
• Southwest keeps things closer to home, serving over 100 destinations in the US, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. It doesn’t rely on hubs in the same way as Delta. Instead, it uses a point-to-point model that often makes direct routes between smaller cities possible.

Alliances 🤝

• Delta is a core member of the SkyTeam alliance, giving you access to partner airlines like KLM, Air France, Korean Air and more. Handy if you're flying internationally or earning SkyMiles abroad.
• Southwest doesn’t belong to any airline alliance. All flights are operated directly by Southwest, and there are no formal codeshare or partner redemption options.

Reputation 🗣️

• Delta is consistently ranked among the most reliable US airlines, known for strong on-time performance, polished service and premium cabin experience. It often tops J.D. Power customer satisfaction scores, especially in First and Business.
• Southwest has built its reputation on flexibility and value, with free checked bags, no change fees (on most fares) and a casual, customer-friendly approach. While recent changes to baggage policy and seating have stirred debate, it remains a popular choice for domestic flyers.

Histories and brand differences ⚖️

• Delta started out in the 1920s and has grown into a global airline known for structure, reliability and premium service. It’s built around comfort and consistency, especially for frequent or long-haul travellers.
• Southwest began in the 1970s with a focus on low fares, flexible policies and domestic routes. Its brand is more relaxed, with simple pricing, friendly crews and fewer extras.
• Both airlines fly millions of passengers each year, but their roots shape how they operate. Delta leans into polish and choice. Southwest keeps things casual and customer-friendly.

Basic Economy Comparison

Basic Economy is the most affordable way to fly with both airlines, though it comes with several limitations. Delta and Southwest now offer these lower-cost tickets, but what’s included can vary.

Carry-on rules 🎒

• Delta’s Basic Economy includes a full-size carry-on and a personal item. You’ll have space for a small suitcase in the overhead bin and a bag under the seat.
• Southwest allows both items on its standard fares. With the new Basic fare, introduced in 2025, only a personal item is included. Bringing a carry-on means upgrading your fare or holding elite status.

Seat selection 💺

• If you’re flying Delta Basic Economy, you won’t get to choose your seat in advance. Seats are assigned automatically at check-in, and sitting with others isn’t guaranteed unless you pay extra.
• Southwest doesn’t assign seats on any fare. Instead, you board in order of check-in or status and pick whatever seat is free. But with the Basic fare, you're placed at the back of the boarding line, which means fewer good seats left to choose from.

Boarding group 🚪

• Delta Basic Economy passengers board in the final group, after all other customers, including Main Cabin. That can make finding overhead bin space a bit tricky on busy flights.
• Southwest’s boarding is based on a numbered system. Basic fare passengers land in the last group unless they pay for EarlyBird Check-In or hold A-List status.

Ticket flexibility ⛔

• Delta’s Basic Economy is non-changeable and non-refundable unless the airline cancels or makes a major schedule change. It’s designed to be fixed once booked.
• Southwest previously offered full flexibility across all fares. The new Basic option introduces stricter rules, with no changes, no refunds and no same-day standby. It also excludes Rapid Rewards points.

Which feels more restrictive? 🤔

• Southwest’s Basic fare removes several of the features travellers used to count on. With limited baggage and zero flexibility, it now feels like a less generous version of what the airline once offered.
• Delta’s Basic Economy has similar restrictions, but still gives you more from the start. A carry-on is included, and there’s the potential to earn miles, depending on your ticket.

✨Our thoughts: Delta’s Basic Economy may be the better choice overall. You won’t pick your seat and you’ll board last, but you’ll still have space for a carry-on and avoid surprise fees. Southwest’s Basic fare removes too many of the perks that once made the airline stand out, which might leave some regular flyers rethinking their choice.

Premium Cabin Comparison

Delta gives travellers several options to upgrade their journey, adding space, service and priority perks along the way. Southwest takes a more straightforward approach, offering a single cabin experience for every passenger. Even so, there are a few ways to improve your seat and boarding position when flying with Southwest.

Delta Comfort+ vs Southwest EarlyBird & Upgraded Boarding ✨

• Comfort+ on Delta offers more than just extra legroom. You’ll board earlier, have easier access to overhead bin space, and on many routes, enjoy complimentary drinks. The added recline and priority perks make a real difference on longer domestic flights.
• Southwest doesn’t provide a separate cabin, though EarlyBird Check-In helps you secure a better boarding spot by automatically checking you in ahead of time. Travellers who choose Upgraded Boarding, either as a paid add-on or through an eligible credit card, are placed in Group A. This gives you a better chance at picking a front-row or exit row seat with more legroom.

Delta First Class (domestic) vs Southwest Economy ✨

• First Class with Delta includes wider seats, more personal space and attentive cabin service. Perks like priority check-in, earlier boarding, a free checked bag and complimentary meals add extra value, especially on longer flights.
• Southwest doesn’t offer a First Class cabin. Everyone sits in the same layout, though early boarders often grab the best spots. The first few rows and exit seats tend to have more room, which makes a difference on busy flights. It’s not a premium cabin, but it does give you a chance to make the most of the space available.

Delta Premium Select ✨

• Delta’s Premium Select, available on select international routes, offers a more spacious and refined experience compared to Main Cabin. You’ll find wider seats, more recline, a footrest and upgraded meals. It’s designed for travellers who want more comfort without moving all the way to Business Class.
• Southwest doesn’t offer a comparable option for long-haul or international routes. Every flight operates with the same single cabin setup, regardless of where you’re flying.

Delta One ✨

• Delta One is the airline’s most premium product, offered on many long-haul international and select cross-country flights. It comes with lie-flat seats, full bedding, premium dining, amenity kits and access to Sky Club lounges. It’s designed for those who value comfort, rest and a full-service experience at cruising altitude.
• Southwest doesn’t offer lie-flat seats or a business-class product. Its focus is on keeping domestic travel simple, with consistent service across all fares rather than offering luxury upgrades.

✨Our thoughts: If premium comfort matters, Delta clearly leads. With multiple upgrade options, better seating and dedicated service, it gives you more ways to fly in style. Southwest keeps it basic, but flexible - if you board early and travel light, you can still score a good seat. Just don’t expect champagne and lounge access.

Seat Comfort Comparison

When it comes to seat comfort, Delta and Southwest take different paths. Delta gives you options, from standard economy all the way up to First Class, while Southwest keeps it simple with one cabin across the board. But it’s not just about seat size. How the cabin feels, how much legroom you get, and even how boarding works can all shape your journey.

Legroom and seat width📏

• Southwest offers some of the best legroom in US economy, around 32 inches of pitch on most aircraft.
• Delta’s Main Cabin gives you slightly less at roughly 31 inches, though Comfort+ boosts that up to as much as 36 inches depending on the route and aircraft.
• In terms of width, it’s close. Delta seats are generally around 17.6 inches wide, while Southwest’s come in just under at around 17.4 inches.

Seat design and layout 🛋️

• Delta’s newer aircraft include helpful extras like adjustable headrests, USB ports and modern cabin finishes. These small details help longer journeys feel more comfortable and considered.
• Southwest takes a more uniform approach. Seats are simple but clean, and newer planes feel fresh enough for short- to medium-haul trips. There’s less in the way of upgrades, though nothing stands out as uncomfortable.

Cabin atmosphere and boarding flow 🛫

• Delta’s boarding process tends to feel more organised. You get an assigned seat, a designated boarding group and more structure overall, especially if you’re in Comfort+ or First, where overhead space is easier to come by.
• Southwest uses open seating. You board based on your check-in time or status, then choose your seat once you’re onboard. Passengers who board early often claim spots in the front or in exit rows for extra legroom.

Which airline feels more comfortable? 🤔

✨Our thoughts: Delta offers a more structured experience with assigned seating and upgrade options that add comfort. It’s a smoother ride, especially in premium cabins. Southwest gives you more legroom and the chance to grab a great seat if you board early. It’s a solid choice for flexible flyers, though comfort depends more on timing.

Frequent Flyer and Loyalty Programs

Delta’s SkyMiles and Southwest’s Rapid Rewards are two of the most recognised airline loyalty programmes in the US. Both reward frequent flyers, but they go about it in very different ways - from how you earn points to what you can redeem them for.

Earning points 💰

• Delta awards SkyMiles based on the price of your ticket. The more you spend (and the higher your fare class), the more you earn, especially if you hold a Delta Amex.
• Southwest keeps things simple. Rapid Rewards points are tied to your fare type and base fare price. Wanna Get Away fares earn the least, while Anytime and Business Select get you more.

Climbing the tiers ⬆️

• Delta’s elite programme is called Medallion Status, with four tiers: Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. Earning status depends on how much you spend with the airline, tracked through Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs). If you hold a qualifying Amex card, you can also boost your progress through everyday spending.
• Southwest offers A-List and A-List Preferred status, which come with benefits like priority boarding, bonus points and same-day standby. Qualification is based on the number of flights taken or points earned in a calendar year, so regular travellers can reach it without breaking the bank.

Standout benefits 💫

• Delta’s higher Medallion tiers unlock free upgrades, waived fees, priority services and access to Sky Club lounges (depending on your ticket and card status). It’s geared toward travellers who fly frequently or spend more on premium fares.
• One of the biggest perks in Southwest’s programme is the Companion Pass. Once you qualify, a designated companion can fly with you, free (plus taxes and fees), on every flight you book. It’s one of the most generous benefits in the industry and a favourite among domestic travellers.

Using your miles 💸

• Delta gives you the option to redeem SkyMiles for flights, seat upgrades, onboard purchases or extras like lounge access. Award pricing is dynamic and can vary depending on demand, so flexibility helps you get the most value.
• Southwest’s redemption system is easier to follow. Points are linked directly to the cash price of the fare. That means no blackout dates or confusing pricing - you can see how far your points will take you right away.

Long-term value 🏆

• SkyMiles works best for frequent Delta flyers or those aiming for elite perks and international redemptions. If you’re loyal to Delta and often travel in Comfort+ or above, the value adds up.
• Rapid Rewards is ideal for domestic flyers who want simplicity and flexibility. The Companion Pass alone makes it worth chasing if you fly with a partner, and the points go further when fares are low.

✨Our thoughts: SkyMiles has the edge if you’re flying often, spending more or aiming for premium perks like upgrades and lounge access. Rapid Rewards wins for everyday travellers who want easy points, fewer rules and the chance to bring someone along for (almost) free.

Travel Credit Card Options

Loyal to Delta or Southwest? A travel credit card could unlock extra perks like free checked bags, early boarding and even a companion to fly with you. The benefits depend on the airline and the card you choose, but both have options that add real value to your journeys.

Delta SkyMiles® American Express 🔴

• Delta partners with Amex to offer a wide selection of SkyMiles cards. There’s something for everyone, from low-fee options to premium cards packed with extras.
• The Delta Gold Amex is a popular middle-ground choice. You’ll get priority boarding, your first checked bag free, and double miles on Delta purchases. Spend enough each year and you’ll also unlock a Medallion Qualifying Dollar (MQD) waiver to help climb the loyalty tiers faster.
• For frequent flyers chasing top-tier perks, the Delta Reserve Amex brings out the big guns. It comes with access to Delta Sky Clubs, an annual companion certificate, and triple miles on Delta flights - all bundled into a $650 annual fee. It’s a steep price, but packed with value if you fly Delta regularly and want lounge access and status perks.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cards 🔵

• Southwest’s cards, issued by Chase, are designed around simplicity and value, making them a strong pick for travellers who fly often within the US.
• The Priority Card sits at the top of the lineup, offering a generous 7,500-point anniversary bonus, $75 in Southwest travel credit, and four upgraded boardings each year. It’s a great balance of perks without going overboard on fees, coming in at $149 annually.
• All Rapid Rewards cards help you rack up points on daily spending and get you closer to the airline’s biggest prize: the Companion Pass. Hit the spend or flight threshold, and someone can fly with you for free (just pay taxes and fees) on as many flights as you take for the rest of the year and all of the next.

Which card makes more sense? 🤔

• If you're a frequent Delta flyer or aiming for Medallion Status, the Amex SkyMiles range has serious perks, especially with access to lounges and annual upgrades.
• But if flexibility is more your thing, and you mostly stick to domestic routes, Southwest’s Rapid Rewards cards offer unbeatable value. With low fees and the potential for a Companion Pass, it’s hard to ignore the long-term payoff.

✨Our thoughts: Choose the card that lines up with your travel style. Delta’s range is built for comfort and perks. Southwest keeps it simple and rewarding, with one of the best companion deals in the skies.

Routes, Destinations and On-Time Performance

Delta and Southwest both serve large networks, though they take very different approaches. The better fit for your journey depends on your starting point, destination and how far you're flying.

Where they fly 🌎

• Delta connects travellers to a global map of over 275 destinations. Its reach spans six continents, with a particularly strong focus on Europe, Asia and Latin America.
• Southwest sticks mostly to North America, covering more than 100 cities in the US, plus select routes into Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

Domestic vs international 🏠

• Delta balances a global presence with a strong domestic network. The airline operates a traditional hub system, making it easier to connect between major cities or reach long-haul destinations with fewer stops.
• Southwest is designed around domestic travel. Instead of hubs, it uses a point-to-point model, which can lead to more nonstop routes between smaller cities. This setup works well for short trips and regional travel.

On-time performance ⏱️

• Delta is often praised for reliability. It consistently ranks high for on-time departures and flight completion, with fewer cancellations than most US airlines.
• Southwest performed well in this area for many years. However, recent schedule changes and operational challenges have made flight times a little less consistent. While still dependable for most journeys, it no longer leads the way in punctuality.

✨Our thoughts: Delta stands out for international travel and connections through major airports. It’s often the more dependable choice if you’re flying long-haul or keeping to a tight schedule. Southwest is ideal for domestic trips, especially when flying between smaller or regional cities. Just be aware that flight timing may vary more depending on the route.

Baggage, WiFi and Lounges

There’s more to flying than just the seat. Extras like baggage rules, onboard WiFi and lounge access can shape the whole experience from check-in to touchdown.

Baggage rules 🧳

• Southwest has long been known for its generous baggage allowance, offering two checked bags for free on most fares. In 2025, the airline introduced a Basic Fare that changed this - passengers on that ticket type now need to pay for checked luggage. It’s a noticeable shift from the flexibility Southwest is known for.
• Delta includes a personal item and a full-size carry-on across most fares. Checked bags come with an extra charge unless you're travelling on a higher fare or holding a qualifying SkyMiles credit card.

WiFi on board 📡

• Delta is pushing ahead with free WiFi for SkyMiles members on many domestic flights. You can stream, browse or message without paying extra on most newer aircraft.
• Southwest doesn’t offer free full access, but you can connect for $8 per device. Streaming content is free through the Southwest app, and messaging is included.

Lounge access 🛋️

• Delta travellers have access to Sky Club lounges, available with certain ticket types or through the Delta Amex Reserve card. These lounges offer quiet space, snacks, drinks and decent WiFi, especially useful before a long flight.
• Southwest doesn’t offer lounge access at any stage of the journey. Even in its Business Select fare, the airline sticks with a simple, streamlined service before takeoff.

✨Our thoughts: If you want to check bags or relax in a lounge, Delta clearly offers more. But for simple, no-nonsense flying with fewer extras (and often lower fares), Southwest may still tick the boxes, as long as you’re not flying on their new Basic ticket.

Fees and Extra Charges

Ticket price is usually the first thing travellers look at, but the real cost of flying often depends on the extras. Here’s how Delta and Southwest compare once you’ve made your booking.

Baggage fees 💰

• Delta includes a carry-on and personal item with most fares. If you’re checking a bag, expect to pay around $35 for the first one, unless you have Medallion status or a SkyMiles credit card that includes baggage perks.
• Southwest has long offered two free checked bags on most fares, though this is changing for new Basic tickets introduced in 2025. Still, if you're not flying Basic, it's one of the most generous baggage policies in the US.

Change and cancellation fees 🚫

• Delta allows free changes and cancellations on most fares outside of Basic Economy, where you're more restricted and won’t earn miles. Any changes on those tickets are typically not allowed.
• Southwest has built its brand on flexible travel. Most fares let you cancel or change flights without penalties, and you’ll get credit for future travel. That flexibility still applies to Wanna Get Away fares, although the new Basic fare now excludes it.

Other charges to know🫰

• Both airlines charge for extras like priority boarding or alcoholic drinks unless you’re flying in a premium cabin or hold certain credit cards. Delta passengers may also see fees for same-day confirmed changes or upgrades unless they have Medallion status.
• Southwest has fewer add-on costs overall. However, with fare changes now in place, some of the perks that were once included are starting to shift into the paid column.

✨Our thoughts: If you want clear pricing and minimal surprises, Southwest still leads the way, especially on non-Basic fares. Delta’s fees can add up, but you’re paying for more cabin choice, inflight extras and polished service. It's all about what you value more: flexibility or comfort.

Safety, Support and Overall Experience

When something goes wrong (or even when it doesn’t), the way an airline supports you can make or break your trip. Delta and Southwest both have solid reputations when it comes to safety and service, but how they handle the journey itself feels very different.

Safety and trust 🔐

Both Delta and Southwest meet the same strict FAA safety standards, and neither airline has any major incidents in recent years.

• Delta is known for investing in newer aircraft, advanced training, and robust maintenance systems. It often goes beyond the basics and has a track record of acting quickly when problems do come up.
• Southwest also maintains a solid safety record. While recent reviews have raised some questions around internal reporting and transparency, there’s no change to its status as a trusted and safe US airline.

Customer support 📞

• Delta earns praise for its customer service, especially during delays or cancellations. Travellers say it’s usually easy to speak to someone helpful, and SkyMiles members often receive quicker support.
• Southwest takes a more casual, friendly approach. Many travellers appreciate the upbeat attitude of the crew and support staff. However, help during disruptions can be harder to access, particularly for those on more restricted fares. Some have reported longer wait times and fewer options when plans change.

💡Need help with your booking? Our 24/7 Customer Service team is here before you fly - just reach out.

Overall experience 🧑‍✈️

• Delta focuses on consistency across its entire operation. The check-in process tends to run smoothly, the cabins feel clean and considered, and onboard service is reliable from Main Cabin to Delta One.
• Southwest keeps things simple and informal. There are no lounges or luxury extras, though many travellers find that refreshing. Open seating, friendly staff and inclusive policies like free checked bags (on most fares) all contribute to a relaxed, budget-conscious flying experience. That said, recent changes to fare types and inclusions have shifted expectations slightly.

✨Our thoughts: For a reliable and consistent experience, Delta is the stronger choice. The added polish makes a real difference, especially on longer journeys or when things don’t go to plan. Southwest is still a great fit for shorter domestic flights, particularly if you’re packing light and looking for something straightforward. Just keep an eye on fare type to make sure you’re getting the flexibility the airline is known for.

Delta vs Southwest: Which Should You Choose? 🤔

Delta and Southwest both have loyal followings, though they offer very different experiences. If you’re after comfort, planning a family trip, or keeping an eye on costs, the best choice depends on what you want from the journey.

🔴 Go with Delta if you:

• Prefer assigned seating and want to know exactly where you’ll sit before take-off
• Like having cabin choices, from Main Cabin to lie-flat seats in Delta One
• Want access to lounges, extra legroom and premium service perks
• Travel often and want to build status through the SkyMiles loyalty program
• Care about strong on-time performance and a more polished experience overall

🔵 Choose Southwest if you:

• Value ticket flexibility and don’t want to pay change fees
• Travel with checked bags and want to avoid extra baggage costs
• Don’t mind picking your seat once you’re onboard
• Fly mostly within the US or to nearby destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean
• Want a rewards program that’s simple, with easy-to-use points and perks like the Companion Pass

Each airline does things well in its own way. Delta focuses on comfort, consistency and premium extras. Southwest keeps things simple and cost-effective, with a more casual, customer-first approach. It all comes down to how you like to fly.

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