On August 25 American ends free coach-to-Business upgrades on nine premium routes, and the flat bed quietly becomes something you buy.

Newark's flight cap, FAA match-day restrictions, and a one-day exit crush make leaving New York after the World Cup final harder than getting in.

Airline seats have been shrinking for decades, and in 2026 the gap between the most and least generous U.S. carriers is wider than ever. Here is the full carrier-by-carrier breakdown, the regulatory failure behind it, and what smart travelers can do to protect their space before they book.

Based on DOT data and 2025 full-year rankings, we grade every major U.S. airline on on-time performance, cancellation rates, baggage handling, and passenger complaints. Find out who is earning your trust and who is quietly falling behind heading into summer 2026.