What Are the Major Airlines in the US
The major airlines in the United States are large, network carriers that operate extensive domestic and international routes. They are typically divided into legacy carriers and low-cost airlines, with the legacy group often referred to as the "Big Four."
The Big Four Legacy Carriers
The Big Four are American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. American and United are part of global alliances, while Delta and Southwest operate extensive domestic hubs. These airlines dominate major airports and offer the broadest route networks in the country.
How These Airlines Are Grouped
Industry analysts group US airlines by size and business model. The legacy carriers focus on hub-and-spoke operations, while low-cost carriers prioritize point-to-point routes. For a current list of certified air carriers, you can refer to the US Department of Transportation's official listing at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/air-carriers
