US legacy airlines differ in premium cabins, lounges, fleet, and network strategies

United Airlines provides Polaris Business Class for international flights, which includes larger seats and a 27-inch 4K display. Polaris Studios on the 787 Dreamliner also offer an ottoman for a companion. United has ordered 140 jets with this configuration from Boeing.

When it comes to airport lounges, United’s Polaris Lounges are often rated as the best for international travelers, offering sit-down dining, a variety of food options, shower rooms, and rest areas. Delta’s Sky Clubs are recognized for consistent service, while Delta One Lounges at New York JFK, Boston Logan, and Los Angeles International provide an exclusive experience. American’s Admirals Clubs and Flagship Lounges are generally seen as less comprehensive, though the Chelsea Lounge at JFK is highly regarded.

Each airline’s main hub reflects its operational strategy. Delta’s base at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport in the world, handling over 100 million passengers annually. American Airlines is headquartered at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, which it dominates with about 80-85% of the airport’s traffic. United’s main hub is Chicago–O'Hare International Airport, though Denver International Airport is also significant for the airline.

United currently operates the largest fleet among the three, with over 1,050 aircraft. American Airlines has just over 1,000, and Delta’s fleet numbers in the high 900s. United is the largest Boeing customer among the three, with more than half its fleet made up of Boeing 737s. American and Delta have a more balanced mix of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, though Delta has moved away from Boeing widebodies, operating only Airbus A350s for long-haul routes. None of the three airlines have ordered the Boeing 777X, citing that it does not fit their network needs.

In terms of network and alliances, Delta is considered the leader in domestic coverage, while United has the largest international network in the post-pandemic period. American Airlines has a strong presence in Latin America and Europe but is still recovering from the impact of the pandemic. Delta is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, United helped found Star Alliance, and American Airlines is a founding member of oneworld. Star Alliance is currently the largest, with 26 members and coverage of over 1,000 destinations in nearly 200 countries. SkyTeam and oneworld follow with 19 and 15 members, respectively.

These differences in premium offerings, lounges, fleet choices, hub strategies, and alliances shape the identity and competitive positioning of each airline in the evolving U.S. air travel market.