Delta Air Lines surpassed estimates on revenue and earnings per share last quarter, supported by strong premium ticket sales.
Revenue last quarter was a third quarter record of US$15.20 billion, rising 4.1% year-over-year and beating LSEG estimates of $15.06 billion. Earnings per share were $1.71, up 14% and passing estimates of $1.53.
“Delta's competitive advantages and differentiation have never been more evident, and thanks to the hard work of our people, we continue to elevate the customer experience and extend our industry leadership. We delivered September quarter results at the top end of our expectations on a combination of strong execution and improving fundamentals," said Delta CEO Ed Bastian.
"Momentum is continuing into the final stretch of our Centennial year, positioning us to deliver strong December quarter earnings. Looking to 2026, Delta is well positioned to deliver top-line growth, margin expansion and earnings improvement consistent with our long-term financial framework.”
Passenger revenue rose by 3% to $13.51 billion, while cargo revenue was up 19% to $233 million. Other revenue increased by 24% to $2.93 billion.
Premium ticket revenue was up 9% to $5.80 billion, and main cabin ticket revenue dropped by 4% to $6.06 billion.
Domestic and Pacific revenue increased by 5% and 3% respectively. Atlantic revenue fell by 2%, and Latin America revenue decreased by 3%.
Non-GAAP operating income was $1.70 billion, up 23%. Net income increased by 15% to $1.12 billion.
Delta’s fuel expenses dropped by 6% to $2.57 billion. The company received 12 newly-delivered aircraft last quarter, with 31 deliveries in 2025 to date.
Its full-year guidance includes earnings per share of around $6.
For the fourth quarter, Delta projects a 2-4% year-over-year increase in revenue, with earnings per share of $1.60-1.90. LSEG estimates had expected $1.65 per share.
Delta’s (NYSE: DAL) share price closed at $59.57, up 4.3% from its previous close at $57.12. Its market capitalisation is $38.90 billion.
