The aviation industry is dominated by airlines boasting massive fleets to cater to passenger and cargo demands worldwide. In 2025, the following airlines stand out with their extensive fleets, reflecting their scale and operations. This list begins with the smallest fleet among the top 10 and works toward the largest.
IndiGo
Fleet Size: 431 aircraft
Overview: As India’s largest airline, IndiGo has grown significantly over the past decade, maintaining its position as the leader in the South Asian market. Known for its low-cost operations, IndiGo serves an extensive domestic network while rapidly expanding its international reach, especially to the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Its fleet consists primarily of Airbus A320-family aircraft, which are suited for short- and medium-haul routes. IndiGo’s efficiency and punctuality have helped it maintain a dominant market share in India.
FedEx Express
Fleet Size: 477 aircraft
Overview: Unlike passenger airlines, FedEx Express specializes in cargo transportation and logistics. As the backbone of the global supply chain, FedEx operates an impressive fleet of dedicated freighter aircraft, including Boeing 777Fs and MD-11Fs. Its fleet enables overnight delivery services to over 220 countries. With the surge in e-commerce and global trade, FedEx continues to upgrade and expand its fleet, focusing on sustainability and fuel efficiency.
Air China
Fleet Size: 502 aircraft
Overview: As the flag carrier of the People’s Republic of China, Air China plays a vital role in connecting the country to the rest of the world. With a focus on international operations, Air China’s fleet comprises a mix of Boeing and Airbus wide-body aircraft for long-haul routes, as well as narrow-body jets for domestic and regional flights. Its Beijing hub positions the airline as a key connector between East and West, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
SkyWest Airlines
Fleet Size: 582 aircraft
Overview: SkyWest Airlines is a regional carrier in the United States that operates flights for major airlines like Delta, United, and American Airlines under contractual agreements. Its fleet primarily consists of smaller regional jets, including the Bombardier CRJ series and Embraer E175s, which are used to connect smaller cities to major hubs. SkyWest’s business model allows it to maintain a vast fleet while serving millions of passengers annually across North America.
China Eastern Airlines
Fleet Size: 652 aircraft
Overview: Headquartered in Shanghai, China Eastern Airlines is a major player in the Chinese aviation market and beyond. Its fleet supports both domestic and international operations, with a significant presence in Asia, Europe, and North America. Known for its commitment to passenger comfort, the airline operates a modern mix of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. China Eastern is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance, expanding its global connectivity.
China Southern Airlines
Fleet Size: 663 aircraft
Overview: As one of the largest airlines in Asia, China Southern Airlines has an extensive network of routes covering domestic and international markets. Its fleet is among the most diverse, with a blend of Airbus A380s, Boeing 777s, and next-generation aircraft like the A350 and 787 Dreamliner. With hubs in Guangzhou and Beijing, China Southern is pivotal in connecting passengers across continents and fostering trade and tourism.
Southwest Airlines
Fleet Size: 803 aircraft
Overview: Southwest Airlines, based in Dallas, Texas, is the largest low-cost carrier in the world. Its fleet consists exclusively of Boeing 737 variants, reflecting its operational simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Known for its point-to-point routing model, Southwest prioritizes efficiency and frequency over traditional hub-and-spoke operations. This model has made it a favorite for domestic travelers in the U.S., with plans for international expansion in the Caribbean and Central America.
American Airlines
Fleet Size: 977 aircraft
Overview: American Airlines, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the world’s most recognized airlines. Its fleet supports an extensive global network spanning six continents. American Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance and offers a mix of narrow- and wide-body aircraft, including the Boeing 787 and Airbus A321. With a strong focus on technology and passenger experience, the airline continues to innovate in fleet management and service offerings.
Delta Air Lines
Fleet Size: 987 aircraft
Overview: Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Delta Air Lines is a leader in the aviation industry with a vast and varied fleet. Delta operates both domestic and international flights, offering services to over 300 destinations worldwide. The airline is known for its strategic fleet renewal programs, integrating fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A220 and A350. Delta’s focus on sustainability and premium service has helped it maintain a competitive edge.
United Airlines
Fleet Size: 992 aircraft
Overview: United Airlines holds the title for the largest fleet in 2025. Operating from its Chicago hub, United serves destinations worldwide with a focus on both passenger and cargo services. Its fleet includes a wide range of aircraft, from the Boeing 737 for domestic routes to the Boeing 787 Dreamliner for long-haul international flights. United’s expansive operations, coupled with ongoing fleet modernization efforts, position it as a global aviation powerhouse.
Bottom line
The size of an airline’s fleet is a testament to its operational scale, market influence, and ability to meet passenger and cargo demands. The airlines on this list represent a mix of passenger and cargo carriers, low-cost and full-service models, and regional and global networks. As the aviation industry evolves, these airlines continue to adapt and expand, playing critical roles in shaping global connectivity.
