The state of air travel at the moment is, in a word rough. Ticket prices are soaring due to rising fuel costs amid the conflict in the Middle East, airlines are raising baggage fees, and TSA lines are snaking around airports. If you still have to fly, though, there are smart choices to be made. WalletHub recently released its list of the best U.S. airlines to fly in 2026 — and honestly, we’re kind of surprised at the No. 1 pick.