TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Airline delays can be frustrating, especially when you’re on a tight schedule. In the U.S., air travel is a popular mode of transportation, but not all airlines offer the same level of reliability when it comes to on-time departures and arrivals.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most delayed airlines in the U.S., citing Travel + Leisure and TheStreet. Inform yourself about which airlines are often delayed to avoid unpleasant situations during your vacation.
JetBlue Airways is among the largest airlines in the U.S. Starting its operation in 2000, this airline, for the most part, is renowned for its affordable flights and great flying experience. However, it may struggle in terms of punctuality.
Travel + Leisure, using data from a study by NerWallet, reports that a percentage of 30.4% accounts for JetBlue Airways’ delayed flights in 2023. The carrier also canceled around 2.1% of flights in that year.
While on-time flights are currently not its primary strength, JetBlue Airways boasts an extensive network route, transporting customers to over 100 destinations throughout the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and Europe.
Furthermore, the airline boasts a huge amount of passengers, serving up to 40 million people per year.
Delays in air travel can be one of the most frustrating experiences for passengers, especially when time is of the essence. In the U.S., where air travel is a vital mode of transportation, not all airlines are equally reliable when it comes to punctual departures and arrivals. Knowing which airlines are more prone to delays can help you plan better and avoid unnecessary headaches.
JetBlue Airways, one of the largest and most well-known carriers in the U.S., has built a reputation for offering affordable flights and an enjoyable flying experience since its launch in 2000. With its vast route network, JetBlue flies to more than 100 destinations across the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and Europe. The airline serves around 40 million passengers annually, making it a major player in the aviation industry. However, for all its strengths, JetBlue has been struggling with on-time performance.
According to a 2023 study by NerdWallet, cited by Travel + Leisure, JetBlue Airways reported that 30.4% of its flights were delayed that year. Additionally, the airline canceled approximately 2.1% of its flights, a figure that might seem small but can lead to significant disruptions for travelers, especially those on tight schedules. While its punctuality record is far from stellar, JetBlue continues to offer a wide range of destinations and a generally positive flying experience, which helps maintain customer loyalty despite its challenges with timeliness.
Several factors contribute to airline delays, and these can vary from airline to airline. For JetBlue, some common reasons for delays include:
Congested Airspace: As JetBlue operates in some of the busiest airports in the U.S., including major hubs like New York’s JFK and Boston Logan, airspace congestion can often lead to delays.
Weather Conditions: Inclement weather, particularly in the northeastern U.S. where JetBlue has many key routes, can disrupt flight schedules, causing delays or cancellations.
Staffing Shortages: Like many airlines, JetBlue faced staffing shortages during and after the pandemic, leading to operational challenges that have affected their on-time performance.
Technical Issues: Airlines also experience delays due to technical difficulties with aircraft or logistical issues on the ground, such as maintenance and refueling.
While JetBlue struggles with on-time performance, it is not the only airline to experience issues with punctuality. Other major U.S. carriers also deal with delays, though some manage them more effectively than others. Let’s take a closer look at how JetBlue compares with other airlines:
1. Southwest Airlines: Known for its no-frills service and low fares, Southwest has seen its share of delays. In 2023, approximately 24.5% of Southwest’s flights were delayed, making it one of the more reliable carriers compared to JetBlue, but still not without challenges.
2. American Airlines: As one of the largest airlines in the world, American Airlines struggles with delays due to the sheer volume of flights it operates. In 2023, about 23.6% of its flights were delayed, which is slightly better than JetBlue’s performance, though American Airlines also contends with frequent cancellations.
3. Delta Air Lines: Delta consistently ranks as one of the most reliable U.S. carriers in terms of punctuality. In 2023, around 17% of Delta flights were delayed, making it a better choice for travelers who prioritize on-time arrivals.
4. United Airlines: With a delay percentage of 22.1%, United Airlines performs better than JetBlue but still experiences a fair share of delays. United, like American, is a global carrier, which can contribute to operational complexities that result in delays.
Tips for Dealing with Airline Delays
If you’re planning to fly with an airline that has a reputation for delays, like JetBlue, there are several steps you can take to minimize the impact of potential delays:
1. Book Flights Early in the Day: Flights scheduled earlier in the day are less likely to be delayed, as disruptions tend to accumulate throughout the day.
2. Check Flight Status Regularly: Many airlines, including JetBlue, offer mobile apps or websites where you can track your flight status in real-time. Staying informed about your flight’s status can help you adjust your plans if necessary.
3. Plan for Extra Time: When traveling, especially during busy seasons or inclement weather, it’s a good idea to leave extra time in your schedule to account for possible delays.
4. Consider Alternative Airports: Sometimes, flying into or out of a smaller or less congested airport can help you avoid delays. JetBlue offers service to a variety of smaller airports that may not be as prone to delays as major hubs.
5. Travel Insurance: If you’re particularly concerned about potential delays, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers missed connections, canceled flights, or other travel disruptions.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Travel Hassles
Airline delays can be a source of stress for any traveler, but with careful planning and a bit of flexibility, you can minimize the impact of delays on your trip. While JetBlue Airways may not lead the industry in on-time performance, it remains a popular choice for travelers due to its affordable fares and wide-reaching route network. By staying informed and making strategic choices when booking your flights, you can improve your chances of a smooth, hassle-free travel experience.