Brand Finance Airlines 50 2025: Delta Retains Title as Most Valuable Airline Brand

Delta leads the ranking for the seventh year, with a brand value of USD 14.9 billion. The top 10 airlines collectively exceed USD 73 billion, with three of the top five based in the U.S.

Delta Airlines Airbus A350 taking off
©Chris Rank

Brand Finance Airlines 50 2025 Report Reveals Industry-Wide Brand Value Surge

The combined brand value of the world’s top 50 airlines has climbed to USD 132.6 billion, reflecting strong post-pandemic recovery and rising demand for premium travel experiences, according to Brand Finance’s latest ranking.

Delta Leads for Seventh Year

For the seventh consecutive year, Delta remains the world’s most valuable airline brand, reaching USD 14.9 billion, a 38% increase. 

Ads

Brand Finance attributes this growth to premium service expansion, reputation for reliability, and transatlantic market strength.

Delta Air Lines, 'Delta One Lounge' Fireplace
Delta Air Lines, ‘Delta One Lounge’ Fireplace © Delta

United Airlines Climbs to Second

United Airlines moves into second place, surpassing American Airlines, with a 41% jump to USD 12.3 billion. Brand Finance credits fleet modernisation, long-haul route expansion, and strong consumer sentiment for its rise.

United Airlines Boeing 787-9
A United Airlines 787-9 © United

American Airlines Drops to Third

American Airlines now holds the third position, with its brand value growing 14% to USD 11.7 billion. Brand Finance highlights that recent corporate-client engagement strategies have helped stabilise its market presence.

Emirates Remains Top Non-U.S. Airline

Ranking fourth globally, Emirates records a 27% increase to USD 8.4 billion. Brand Finance attributes this to luxury positioning, global route expansion, and sponsorship efforts that enhance its reputation.

Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport (DXB), Emirates hub © Emirates

Southwest Airlines Rounds Out Top Five

Southwest Airlines, known for affordability and operational strength, reaches USD 6.3 billion, marking an 18% increase. Brand Finance cites strong domestic loyalty and brand perception as key drivers.

Southwest Boeing 737 Interior
A Southwest Airlines 737 Cabin Interior © Southwest Airlines

Notable Rankings in the Top 10

  • British Airways (USD 4.6 billion, up 44%)
  • China Southern (USD 4.1 billion, up 48%)
  • Qatar Airways (USD 3.9 billion, up 23%)
  • Air Canada (USD 3.2 billion, up 15%)
  • China Eastern (USD 3.2 billion, up 36%)

Now in its 15th year, Brand Finance’s report evaluates 124 airline brands across 30 markets, drawing insights from 30,000 respondents.

Reports