Delta Air Lines has been named the No. 1 company on the 2026 PEOPLE Companies That Care list, earning recognition for its employee-focused culture, community engagement and commitment to social responsibility.
The annual ranking, compiled by PEOPLE and Great Place To Work, evaluates organizations that demonstrate exceptional care for employees, local communities and the environment. This year’s list was based on feedback from more than 1.3 million employee surveys, representing workplaces with over 8.4 million employees.
Employee investment recognized
Delta highlighted several initiatives that contributed to the recognition, including $1.3 billion in profit-sharing payments distributed to employees for the airline’s 2025 performance.
The carrier also expanded financial wellness programs covering retirement planning and emergency savings while continuing to invest in mental health and emotional well-being resources for employees and their families.
Community and sustainability impact
Beyond employee programs, Delta reported $72.5 million in charitable contributions during 2025, alongside more than 135,000 volunteer hours completed by employees worldwide.
Employee and customer fundraising campaigns also generated $18.5 million for charitable causes.
On the sustainability front, Delta said operational initiatives are expected to save approximately 3.3 million gallons of fuel annually, contributing to lower carbon emissions.
Recognition based on employee feedback
The PEOPLE Companies That Care rankings are determined using responses to the Great Place To Work Trust Index Survey, which evaluates workplace culture, employee experience and organizational practices, together with supporting information submitted by participating companies.
The recognition places Delta at the top of one of the workplace awards focused on employee well-being, corporate responsibility and organizational culture.
