The world's most punctual airlines and airports of 2024, per Cirium

In 2024, the aviation industry faced numerous challenges, including large-scale IT system outages and adverse weather conditions, leading to significant flight delays and cancellations worldwide. Against this backdrop, airlines that maintain high on-time performance take on particular importance. According to the annual report from analytics firm Cirium, published on 2 January 2025, the world's most punctual airline in 2024 was Mexico's Aeromexico, with an on-time arrival rate of 86.70%. Saudi Arabia's Saudia took second place (86.35%), and Delta Air Lines of the US came third (83.46%).

By region, the leaders were:

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• Latin America: Copa Airlines
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• North America: Delta Air Lines
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• Europe: Iberia Express
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• Asia-Pacific: Japan Airlines
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• Middle East and Africa: FlySafair
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Notably, Iberia Express was also named the most punctual among budget airlines.

In the airport category, first place went to King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh (RUH), with an on-time departure rate of 86.65%. Second and third place went to the airports of Lima (LIM) and Mexico City (MEX), with rates of 84.57% and 84.04% respectively.

Cirium also awarded its prestigious Platinum Award, which takes into account not just punctuality but also route network complexity, flight volume, and the ability to minimise the impact of disruptions on passengers. In 2024, this award went to Delta Air Lines for the fourth year running. In addition, a similar award for airports was presented for the first time, going to El Dorado Airport in Bogotá.

These figures highlight the importance of operational agility and resilience amid the growing challenges facing the modern aviation industry.