As the global tourism industry continues its recovery, the ranking of airline on-time performance has drawn significant attention. According to the latest 2024 On-Time Performance Review by aviation analytics firm Cirium, Mexico’s flag carrier Aeroméxico has claimed the title of the world’s most punctual airline, followed closely by Saudia (Saudi Airlines) and Delta Air Lines , which also ranked as the top performer in North America.

The Methodology and Top Performers

Cirium’s analysis defines on-time flights as those arriving or departing within 14 minutes and 59 seconds of their scheduled times. Notably, the top three airlines—Aeroméxico, Saudia, and Delta—retained their positions from the previous year’s rankings. All three are members of the SkyTeam Alliance , with Aeroméxico and Delta being founding members since the alliance’s establishment in 2000, underscoring their consistent operational excellence.

Regional Standouts

In North America , Delta maintained its leadership, trailed by United Airlines and Alaska Airlines. Latin America saw Copa Airlines, headquartered in Panama but based in Colombia, secure the top spot for the second consecutive year. The Asia-Pacific region was led by Japan Airlines (JAL), with All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Singapore Airlines rounding out the top three.

In the Middle East and North Africa , budget carrier Safair outperformed competitors like Oman Air and Royal Jordanian. Meanwhile, in Europe , Iberia Express, the low-cost subsidiary of Spain’s Iberia, took first place, with its parent airline ranking second.

Airport Punctuality Rankings

Cirium also evaluated airports worldwide. Among large airports , Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) topped the list, followed by Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) and Mexico City International Airport (MEX). For medium-sized airports , Panama’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY), Osaka’s Itami Airport (ITM), and Brasília International Airport (BSB) led the rankings.

Challenges Ahead

The report highlights that many delays stem from factors beyond airlines’ and airports’ control, such as severe weather. With climate change intensifying, the industry faces growing operational complexities, suggesting that maintaining high punctuality rates may become increasingly difficult in the years ahead.