View the full Brand Finance Airlines 50 2025 report here
Delta has retained its title of the world’s most valuable airline brand for the seventh year running.
Now in its 15th year, the report is the longest-running study of its kind, ranking the world’s most valuable and strongest airline brands. This year’s research spans 30 markets, includes insights from over 30,000 respondents, and evaluates 124 brands. According to Brand Finance research, Delta’s brand value increased by 38% to USD14.9 billion, driven by strong financial performance, premium revenue growth, and continued investments in customer experience and sustainability.
Key highlights include:
- Malaysia Airlines re-enters the ranking after a decade as the fastest-growing airline brand, brand value up 209%
- Total airline brand value jumps 29% as demand for premium travel and global connectivity rebounds
- Southwest and ANA lead in brand strength
- Heathrow and Changi airports remain world’s most valuable and strongest airport brands, respectively
Savio D’Souza, Senior Director, Brand Finance, commented:
“Airlines are capitalising on the rebound in international mobility, with the total brand value of the top 50 airlines rising 29% year-on-year to USD132.4 billion. This growth is being driven by shifting consumer preferences: premium and loyalty revenue streams now account for over half of total income at leading carriers like Delta. As demand accelerates for high-quality, long-haul travel experiences, brands that deliver reliability and service excellence are pulling ahead of the competition. However, this momentum is not without potential challenges. Economic uncertainty, including the impact of new tariffs and operational challenges like delayed jet deliveries, could dampen expansion plans and brand growth. The months ahead will be a test of how airline brands balance ambition and resilience.”
