Delta, United Seen Leading 2026 Airline Gains As Capacity Stays In Check: Analyst

Core Insights - U.S. airlines are entering 2026 with tight capacity and resilient premium demand, positioning carriers with pricing power and strong cash generation to outperform weaker peers [1] - The industry reshaping favors large network carriers with robust loyalty programs and cash flow, essential for delivering outsized returns to investors [2] Company Summaries - Delta Air Lines, Inc. is a top pick with a Buy rating and a price forecast increase to $80 from $74, driven by strong cash generation and premium exposure, with a projected free cash flow of over $3 billion for 2026 [4] - United Airlines Holdings, Inc. maintains a Buy rating with a price forecast increase to $130 from $120, benefiting from accelerating unit revenues and expected free cash flow of more than $2 billion [6] - American Airlines Group Inc. carries a Neutral rating with a price forecast increase to $17 from $15, highlighting revenue momentum but ongoing balance sheet issues [7] - Southwest Airlines Co. is rated Underperform with a price forecast increase to $37 from $28, with projected upside from ancillary revenue sources but facing execution risk as it shifts to a network model [9] Market Dynamics - The constrained supply in the airline industry is expected to drive pricing power, rewarding carriers that maximize premium revenue and reinvestment [10] - Delta and United are positioned as structural winners due to their scale and balance sheet flexibility, while American Airlines' upside is limited by leverage and Southwest faces execution risks [11]