Delta Air Lines has been ranked 11th on Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies list, marking the airline’s 13th consecutive year receiving this recognition.
“Fortune is proud to celebrate the companies on this year’s World’s Most Admired Companies list; they have set the bar for real innovation, resilient leadership, and global impact,” said Alyson Shontell, Fortune’s Editor in Chief and Chief Content Officer. “As rapidly advancing technologies such as AI transform entire industries, these organizations stand out for their ability to evolve with purpose and foresight, consistently shaping the path forward for global business, and the future of how we work and lead.”
Delta attributes its continued recognition to its staff and service culture. “I could not be more proud of Delta people for continuing to go above and beyond to deliver the level of world-class service customers have come to expect from us,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “This recognition belongs to our team of the world’s best aviation professionals whose commitment to excellence allows Delta to keep climbing.”
In 2025, while celebrating its centennial, Delta made significant investments aimed at improving customer experience. These included expanding fast, free Wi-Fi across approximately 75% of its fleet through a partnership with T-Mobile, introducing new partnerships that offer SkyMiles Members additional benefits during flights, enhancing its mobile app with real-time updates and self-service features, and launching an AI-powered assistant within the app for personalized support.
Other improvements involved optimizing baggage handling through real-time data use—resulting in nearly a 30% improvement in bag transfers—and upgrading onboard dining experiences via new collaborations. The company also expanded its airport lounge offerings with new Delta Sky Clubs and lounges in several locations.
Delta added new routes in key U.S. gateways and made progress toward sustainability goals by investing in next-generation aircraft and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). On the ground, enhancements included streamlined security processes at U.S. hubs offering Delta One service and new preferred drop-off experiences at airports like LaGuardia (LGA) and Atlanta (ATL).
The airline continues to receive industry accolades; it was named by Cirium as one of the top airlines for operational performance for five consecutive years.
Fortune determines its annual ranking through a survey conducted with Korn Ferry. Executives, directors, and analysts rate companies on nine criteria such as management quality, product quality, social responsibility, and talent attraction. To make the top 50 list, companies must receive high marks from senior executives across various industries.
Delta Air Lines began as an aerial crop-dusting operation in 1925. Today it connects passengers and cargo across more than 350 destinations worldwide using a diverse fleet focused on reliable air travel (official website).
