SECRET Airline STATS — Which Airline Will Leave You Stranded?

Another holiday season looms, and American Airlines tops the list for flight cancellations, raising alarms for travelers across the nation.

Story Highlights

American Airlines leads in 2025 cancellations with a 2.97% rate.
Southwest Airlines performs best in overall reliability, despite holiday past issues.
Delta shows mixed performance, strong historically but high recent cancellations.
DOT data guides consumers in choosing reliable airlines.

American Airlines Tops Flight Cancellations

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 2025 data, American Airlines has the highest cancellation rate, standing at 2.97%. This ongoing issue has frustrated travelers who depend on punctual flights for business and leisure, especially during the holiday season. The trend indicates a broader problem within the airline’s operational management that needs urgent addressing to prevent further consumer dissatisfaction and potential financial repercussions.

Frontier Airlines follows closely with a 1.92% cancellation rate. As an ultra-low-cost carrier, its thin margins and point-to-point model contribute to these disruptions, impacting passengers’ travel plans. In contrast, Allegiant Air boasts the lowest cancellation rate at 0.53%, offering a more reliable travel option, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

Southwest’s Mixed Record

Southwest Airlines demonstrates the best overall reliability for 2025 with a 0.89% cancellation rate. However, its reputation is marred by historical holiday struggles, such as the infamous 2022 meltdown involving 17,000 cancellations. With the upcoming holiday season, all eyes are on Southwest to see if they can maintain their recent improvements or fall back into old patterns.

Delta Air Lines, typically strong during holidays, has shown a recent surge in cancellations. From December 1-7, 2025, Delta led in cancellations with 497 flights, indicating potential strain in their operations. Despite these setbacks, Delta’s historical resilience during peak times might still make it a viable choice for holiday travelers.

DOT Data as a Consumer Guide

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Air Travel Consumer Report serves as a crucial tool for consumers looking to minimize travel disruptions. By analyzing airline performance metrics, travelers can make informed decisions, balancing cost with reliability. This data-driven approach empowers consumers, ensuring their rights are protected against unexpected cancellations and delays.

As the holiday season approaches, travelers should consider these insights when booking flights. Choosing an airline based on reliable performance metrics rather than reputation alone could mean the difference between a smooth journey and a holiday nightmare.