Delta Air Lines Achieves Top Ranking for Trust in Forbes’: A New Era for U.S. Tourism

Published on November 20, 2025

Delta Air Lines, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, has secured a spot in the prestigious Forbes Most Trusted Companies in America list. The airline earned the impressive No. 10 overall ranking in Forbes’ second annual list, marking it as the highest-ranked airline and No. 1 in the aviation sector. With this recognition, Delta not only solidifies its position as a leader in customer service and care but also paves the way for a potential boost in tourism across the United States.

This award comes at a pivotal time as Delta celebrates its Centennial Year, a milestone of 100 years of service to passengers worldwide. The recognition signals more than just high trust from consumers and employees; it is a vital endorsement of the brand’s ability to build lasting connections with travelers and communities, all of which have direct implications for U.S. tourism growth.

A Victory for Customer Trust and U.S. Tourism

Forbes’ list evaluated more than 50 metrics across six categories to determine the rankings. Delta’s recognition as No. 10 is based on key factors such as employee sentiment, customer satisfaction, business trajectory, media perception, and workforce stability. According to Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, the airline’s success in these areas reflects the care and service Delta employees provide to its customers and the communities they serve.

The award is a testament to Delta’s commitment to offering an elevated customer experience, which is essential for boosting tourism across the U.S. As travel demand rises and more international and domestic visitors flock to America, Delta’s trusted status will likely make it the airline of choice for many, positively impacting the country’s tourism economy.

Delta’s Success Is Tied to Its Centennial Milestone

Delta’s recognition on Forbes’ list coincides with the airline’s Centennial celebrations, marking 100 years of connecting the world. Delta’s ranking is a reflection of the airline’s dedication to providing a welcoming, customer-centric approach, which has been key to its longevity and success in the competitive aviation industry. With tourism expected to continue growing, Delta’s position as the most trusted airline ensures it will play a major role in the future of U.S. tourism.

This is an exciting moment for U.S. tourism as a whole. The endorsement of Delta as the most trusted airline will undoubtedly lead to increased international flight bookings. Tourists from around the world are more likely to choose Delta knowing it is recognized for its top-tier service and reputation. This will lead to greater connectivity between the U.S. and key tourism markets, supporting the local economies and industries reliant on tourism, such as hospitality and retail.

Key Metrics Behind Delta’s Ranking

Forbes took into account six key categories to determine which companies earned a place on the Most Trusted Companies in America list:

1. Employee sentiment
2. Customer satisfaction
3. Financial performance
4. Business trajectory
5. Media perception
6. Workforce stability

Delta’s high ranking on this list was determined by the airline’s excellent performance in these areas. Moreover, Delta’s positive employee sentiment and customer satisfaction scores reflect the airline’s dedication to delivering exceptional travel experiences. This level of trust is vital for tourism, as it assures passengers that they are flying with a company that cares about their comfort and safety.

Delta’s Impact on U.S. Tourism Growth

The positive effects of Delta’s top ranking will have far-reaching benefits for U.S. tourism. As the airline sector is a critical part of the tourism infrastructure, trusted carriers like Delta help draw more visitors to the country. With its leading position in the industry, Delta is well-poised to help shape the future of tourism in the U.S.

Additionally, Delta’s ranking as the highest airline on the list could potentially result in higher international visitor numbers. This is crucial in light of the ongoing global recovery in travel. Tourists want reliability and safety when booking flights to the U.S., and Delta’s ranking offers just that. This trust will likely lead to a steady flow of international tourists, who often contribute more to the economy and tourism sectors due to their longer stays and higher spending.

Boosting Tourism in Key U.S. States

The recognition also underscores Delta’s leadership across key states like Georgia, Michigan, and Utah, where the airline has been ranked No. 1 in Forbes’ America’s Best Employers by State list. These regions are already home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S., and Delta’s role in these states will only further encourage travel.

For Georgia, particularly Atlanta, where Delta Airlines is based, the tourism industry stands to gain significantly. Atlanta’s position as a major international gateway will see further growth due to Delta’s trusted brand. The same can be said for Michigan and Utah, two states that boast scenic landscapes and unique cultural experiences.

Delta’s Continued Excellence in U.S. Tourism

With Delta’s outstanding performance in these rankings, the airline is poised to support the growth of U.S. tourism in the years to come. As more travelers choose trusted airlines like Delta, the industry will continue to thrive, creating new opportunities for tourism-based businesses and local economies across the U.S.

As Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian highlights, the ranking reflects the airline’s culture of care, which translates directly into customer loyalty and satisfaction. For the tourism industry, this is a powerful signal that Delta is a safe, reliable, and highly respected choice for travelers, no matter where they’re heading in the U.S.

A Bright Future for Delta and U.S. Tourism

Delta’s ranking as one of the most trusted companies in America marks an exciting new chapter for both the airline and U.S. tourism. As more international and domestic tourists choose Delta for their travels, tourism will continue to thrive, with economic benefits rippling across local communities. The airline’s Centennial year celebration is just the beginning of what promises to be a prosperous future for Delta and the U.S. tourism industry.

By fostering trust with customers and employees alike, Delta has proven that it’s not just a leader in aviation, but a key player in driving tourism to the United States. This recognition will help the airline soar even higher in the years ahead, encouraging even more global visitors to experience the many wonders of America.