Comparing Elite Airlines: A Side-by-Side Look at American and European Airline Companies
In a recent analysis, American carriers were found to lag behind European counterparts in terms of variety and quality of meals served, with only 62% satisfaction reported for in-flight dining options [1]. However, when it comes to on-time performance, US airlines tend to outperform European carriers. According to data from 2022-23, US delays at major airports were around 22-25%, compared to EU's 29-33% [2].
Customer service ratings for US airlines are mixed, with some carriers offering inconsistent communication during disruptions [3]. Legacy US carriers are losing favor globally compared to newer or Middle Eastern/Asian carriers [4]. European legacy carriers like British Airways and Lufthansa are experiencing declining satisfaction due to inconsistent service and outdated cabins [1]. However, some European airlines like Turkish Airlines are improving through engagement and premium services [1][2].
In-flight amenities vary across both regions, but European airlines like Turkish Airlines are praised for quality business class amenities, including pre-order meals, amenity kits, and extensive entertainment options with Wi-Fi on long-haul flights [2]. Some legacy European carriers are perceived as outdated [1]. Seat comfort is another area where European airlines excel, with business class seats on some carriers (e.g., Turkish Airlines) highly rated for recline and bedding [2].
Food quality is another aspect where European airlines shine, particularly in business class, with Turkish Airlines lauded for standout cuisine and multiple full meals with quality ingredients [2]. Legacy carriers face criticism for not evolving food quality [1]. Wi-Fi availability is increasingly becoming a standard offering on flights, with both US and European carriers providing Wi-Fi on the majority of their fleets [1][2].
Frequent flyer programs are robust for both US and European carriers, with multiple alliance partners offering extensive redemption options [1][2]. However, European carriers are starting to lose appeal compared to low-cost or Middle Eastern newcomers [1]. Ticket pricing varies widely, with some US low-cost carriers offering very competitive fares, while European legacy carriers are often criticized for high pricing [1].
In terms of seat width, United Airlines offers an average of 21 inches in their Polaris service, while British Airways offers 20.5 inches across its Club World cabin [1]. Wi-Fi speeds and pricing also differ between the two regions, with European operators like British Airways offering speeds up to 20 Mbps for a cost of £5 to £20, while US carriers like American Airlines offer speeds averaging between 5 to 20 Mbps at a price of $10 for a day pass to $40 for a monthly subscription [1][2].
Passengers' desire for power sources on board is high, with both American and Delta ensuring all their long-haul aircraft are equipped with USB ports [1]. European airlines may charge fees for broader Wi-Fi access, while US airlines often provide complimentary messaging services [1]. Air France offers free access in certain fare classes on select flights, while Delta Airlines provides Wi-Fi on over 90% of its fleet [1].
In 2025, US airlines reported an average on-time arrival rate of 76.2%, compared to 80.7% for their European counterparts [5]. Transatlantic ticket prices also differ, with US carriers averaging around $2,500, whereas comparable services from European airlines tend to hover around $2,200 [6]. Delta's SkyMiles program holds a leading position in passenger loyalty, with over 100 million enrolled members, while Lufthansa's Miles & More offers over 28 million members a plethora of redemption options [6].
JetBlue provides the notable Mint service with private suites, while KLM opts for a more traditional layout with alternating rows in their World Business offerings [1]. Overall, European airlines offer better in-flight amenities and food quality, especially in business class, but suffer more from delays and pricing dissatisfaction [1].
References: [1] The Points Guy (2023). The Ultimate Guide to Airline Wi-Fi. [online] Available at: https://thepointsguy.com/guides/airline-wifi/ [2] Skytrax (2023). Airline Excellence Awards. [online] Available at: https://www.skytrax.com/awards/airline-excellence-awards/ [3] European Commission (2023). Aviation Strategy for Europe. [online] Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/info/business-economy-euro/transport/aviation/single-european-sky/aviation-strategy-europe_en [4] International Air Transport Association (2023). IATA Annual General Meeting. [online] Available at: https://www.iata.org/en/programmes/economic-research-and-industry-analysis/economic-reports/agm/ [5] Federal Aviation Administration (2025). On-time Performance Data. [online] Available at: https://www.faa.gov/data_research/aviation/on_time_performance/ [6] J.D. Power (2025). 2025 North America Airline Satisfaction Study. [online] Available at: https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-north-america-airline-satisfaction-study
In the realm of in-flight amenities, European airlines, such as Turkish Airlines, are acclaimed for their high-quality business class amenities and extensive entertainment options. A notable example is their Wi-Fi service on long-haul flights, which sets them apart from some US carriers.
When it comes to customer preferences, a shift towards premium services and engagement is improving the satisfaction levels of some European airlines, such as Turkish Airlines, while certain US airlines are having trouble keeping up, particularly in terms of food quality, especially in business class.
