Both Qatar Airways and Delta Air Lines offer competitive services with strengths in different areas. Qatar Airways excels in in-flight entertainment and luxurious lounges, while Delta Air Lines focuses on baggage handling reliability and customer satisfaction in premium cabins. The choice between the two depends on individual priorities, such as entertainment options, baggage handling, or premium cabin experience.
| Attribute | Qatar Airways | Delta Air Lines |
|---|---|---|
| On-time Arrival Performance | 82.83% in 2024 (top 5 globally), 85.11% in 2023 (ranked third globally). | 83.46% in 2024 (North America), ranking third worldwide. |
| Baggage Handling Reliability | 0.72 mishandled items per 1,000 passengers in 2022/23 ('best-in-class'). Q3 2024 data indicates 76 lost bags per 1,000 passengers. | 99.9% baggage handling accuracy due to RFID technology. 20-minute baggage guarantee for domestic flights. |
| In-flight Entertainment Options | Oryx One system offers up to 8,500 options (movies, TV shows, audio, games), refreshed monthly. Personalized playlists available. | Delta Studio offers up to 300 movies, TV shows, 2,400 songs, and live satellite TV on select aircraft. Upgrading to 4K HDR QLED screens and Bluetooth connectivity in 2026. |
| Seat Comfort (Legroom, Recline) | Economy class seats are typically 17 inches wide with a 32-inch pitch. Adjustable headrests and contoured seat backs for lumbar support. | Delta Comfort+ offers up to 3 inches of extra legroom. First-class seats on domestic flights have up to 8 inches of extra legroom. |
| Food and Beverage Quality | Won the APEX award for best food and beverage. Some reviews suggest that the quality of food in Economy class could be improved. | Complimentary snacks and beverages on shorter flights and full meal options on long-haul international flights. Premium cabins offer more extensive meal options. Partners with chefs and sommeliers. |
| Cabin Cleanliness and Maintenance | Disinfects aircraft regularly using IATA and WHO recommended products. Honeywell UV Cabin System used for additional disinfection. HEPA filters remove 99.97% of viral and bacterial contaminants. | Emphasizes daily aircraft cleaning, using UV light technology and HEPA filters. Electrostatic sprayers are used to sanitize cabins. First-class seats have a special antimicrobial coating. |
| Customer Service Responsiveness | Some reviews mention slow customer service with regard to compensation, flight changes, and baggage issues. | Provides various check-in options, including online, mobile app, and airport kiosks. Streamlining the boarding process. |
| Check-in and Boarding Efficiency | Dedicated transfer desks and security check lanes for First and Business Class passengers. | Offers online check-in 24 hours before departure. Introducing numbered boarding zones. Biometric check-in and boarding are available at select airports. |
| Frequent Flyer Program Benefits | Privilege Club allows members to earn and redeem Avios, with benefits like upgrades, extra baggage allowance, and lounge access. | SkyMiles members can earn miles for flights, everyday purchases, and through partnerships. Medallion members receive benefits such as complimentary upgrades, bonus miles, waived fees, and priority services. Miles don't expire. |
| Lounge Access and Amenities | Lounges at Hamad International Airport (Al Safwa First Lounge, Al Mourjan Business Lounge) with Wi-Fi, business centers, shower facilities, and dining options. Access based on class of service and Privilege Club tier. | Delta Sky Clubs offer complimentary cocktails, fresh food, Wi-Fi, and personalized flight assistance. Delta One Lounges are available for Delta One passengers and Delta 360 members, offering amenities like relaxation pods, massage treatments, and premium dining. |
| Ticket Change Flexibility | Flexible booking policy allows changes up to 3 hours before departure, but fees may apply. | Offers flexibility for ticket changes, with no change fees for many tickets originating in the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean. Basic Economy tickets have restrictions. Changes can be made within 24 hours of booking. |
| Overall Value for Money | Considered one of the world's most luxurious airlines. One study in 2017 found it to be the best value airline for legroom in economy class. | Recognized by J.D. Power as a top-ranked airline for First/Business and Premium Economy Passenger Satisfaction. |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | On-time Arrival Performance: Ranked among the top 5 airlines globally. | Not available |