Delta has once again earned a Platinum Award for Operational Excellence from aviation analytics firm Cerium, delivering the best on-time performance among North American airlines in 2024.
Delta maintained its status as North America's most on-time airline in 2024, and its people earned the Platinum Award for Operational Excellence from Cerium for the fourth year in a row.
Cirium's Platinum Award is given to airlines that deliver outstanding performance while navigating complex operations — all while limiting the impact of disruption to its customers. The recognition underscores the airline's commitment to reputation and reliability as it begins its centennial year.
Delta EVP and Chief of Operations John Laughter said, “Cerium is an honor to once again recognize the hard work and operational excellence of Delta's people. “Safe, consistent operational excellence is the foundation of Delta's growth and a core promise of our 100-year brand.”
In addition to winning the Cerium Platinum Award, Delta was the most on-time airline in North America with 83.46% of its 1,712,529 flights arriving on time, the company said.
According to Cerium data, Delta's on-time performance for 2024 exceeded both North American and global industry benchmarks — 76.37% and 83.04%, respectively — and topped its nearest North American competitor by 2.53%. Cirium defines an on-time flight as one that arrives within 15 minutes of arriving at its designated gate.
“Through its continued investment in people, processes and technology, Delta Air Lines is once again setting the standard for what operational excellence can look like in the airline industry, inspiring others with an enduring commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience.” Says Mike Malik, Chief Marketing Officer of Cerium.