Most Satisfying Airlines: Alaska Airlines Takes Top Spot Again

Travelers are becoming more satisfied with airlines. J.D Power & Associates' 2013 North America Airline Satisfaction Study was released this week with Alaska Airlines being named the most satisfying airline.

According to the survey, airline satisfaction has improved overall and is at its highest level since 2006. The study measured satisfaction based on performance in seven factors: cost & fees; in-flight services; boarding/deplaning/baggage; flight crew; aircraft; check-in; and reservation. The study found that satisfaction improved all across in each category.

"Traditional carriers have improved significantly across all seven factors, and it is a positive sign to see them turn a corner and starting to rise again, even as there is still more opportunity to improve," said Jessica McGregor, senior manager of the global travel and hospitality practice at J.D. Power & Associates. "While satisfaction with low-cost carriers improves by only one index point overall, greater gains in the rest of the experience are masked by lower passenger satisfaction with cost and fees."

Passengers are still not satisfied with baggage fees but the survey showed that they've become more accepting of them. Airlines that offer Wi-Fi ranked high as more and more passengers are using their devices on board. The survey also showed that passengers appreciate good staff members who smile at them.

Based on a 1,000 point scale, here are the top traditional airlines for airline satisfaction:

1. Alaska Airlines (717)

2. Delta Air Lines (682)

3. Air Canada (671)

4. American Airlines (660)

5. United Airlines (641)

Alaska Airlines has taken the top spot for six years in a row. The airline is proud to take the honor once again.

"We're honored to receive this prestigious recognition from our customers," said Alaska Air Group President and CEO Brad Tilden. "Receiving this award six years in a row is a credit to the 13,000 Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air employees who show their dedication to our customers every day and on every flight."

Here are the top low-cost airlines for airline satisfaction:

1. JetBlue Airways (787)

2. Southwest Airlines (770)

3. WestJet (714)

4. Frontier Airlines (708)

5. AirTran Airways (705)