Airlines with most delays and complaints in 2024

As 2024 nears conclusion, we have a look at whiich airlines struggled with delays, cancellations, and customer complaints. Here is a list compiled by AirHelp’s annual airline.

Tunisair has claimed the unenviable title of the worst-performing airline globally in 2024.

The airline, based in Tunisia, ranked last among 109 carriers, with Ryanair and Aer Lingus following closely behind in the bottom tier.

The rankings, which were compiled based on customer feedback, on-time performance, and flight disruption claims, revealed a troubling trend for several low-cost and national carriers.

Tunisia's Tunisair, which has consistently struggled with delays and service issues, was the poorest performer globally.

Also in the bottom 10 were Ryanair's subsidiary Buzz, Bulgaria Air, Turkey's Pegasus Airlines, and Air Mauritius.

Despite the challenges faced by low-cost carriers, some major US airlines showed improvement.

United Airlines and American Airlines both ranked in the top five, which may surprise many given the disruptions in domestic travel in the US this past year.

However, Delta Air Lines saw a significant drop from No. 11 to No. 17, largely due to a technology outage in July that generated over 3,000 complaints.

On the positive side, Brussels Airlines emerged as the best airline globally, rising from 12th position in 2023 to the top spot this year.

The Belgian carrier’s impressive turnaround pushed Qatar Airways, which had held the top position since 2018, down to second place.

Notable improvements were also seen with other North American carriers, with Air Transat entering the rankings at No. 36.

However, Alaska Airlines saw a significant drop, falling over 30 spots to No. 88 due to operational issues and ongoing merger talks.

AirHelp CEO Tomasz Pawliszyn commented, “We hope that the analysis encourages airlines to continuously listen to passenger feedback, which is essential for improving overall service and customer experience.”

AirHelp’s rankings are based on data collected from over 54 countries, spanning from January to October 2024, incorporating flight punctuality, passenger feedback, and the resolution of customer complaints, including issues with lost luggage.

Worst airlines (Ranked 100–109):

1. Tunisair (Tunisia)

2. Ryanair (Ireland)

3. Aer Lingus (Ireland)

4. Buzz (Poland)

5. Bulgaria Air (Bulgaria)

6. Pegasus Airlines (Turkey)

7. Air Mauritius (Mauritius)

8. Sky Express (Greece)

9. Tarom (Romania)

10. IndiGo (India)

Best airlines (Ranked 1–10):

1. Brussels Airlines (Belgium)

2. Qatar Airways (Qatar)

3. United Airlines (USA)

4. American Airlines (USA)

5. Play (Iceland)

6. Austrian Airlines (Austria)

7. LOT Polish Airlines (Poland)

8. Air Arabia (UAE)

9. Widerøe (Norway)

10. Air Serbia (Serbia)