Core Viewpoint - Delta Air Lines, Inc. has shown resilience in its financial performance despite recent market challenges, with strong projections for future growth and profitability [4][5][6] Financial Performance - Delta reported Q4 FY2025 operating revenue of nearly $16 billion, a 3% year-over-year increase, driven by diversified revenue streams and strong demand [4] - The airline's non-GAAP adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for Q4 FY2025 was $1.55, meeting expectations and indicating operational strength [4] - Analysts project a 24.1% increase in Delta's EPS for the fiscal year ending December 2026, reaching $7.22 on a diluted basis [6] Market Performance - Over the past year, Delta's shares have declined by 2.7%, underperforming the S&P 500 Index, which has increased nearly 15% [2] - In contrast, Delta's shares surged 18.4% over the past six months, outperforming the S&P 500's 9.2% gain [2] - Delta has also exceeded the U.S. Global Jets ETF's 12.2% return over the past six months, although it trailed the ETF's 6.4% rise over the past year [3] Future Outlook - For Q1 2026, Delta expects revenue growth of 5%–7% year over year, supported by strong consumer and corporate demand [5] - The company is guiding for adjusted EPS in the range of $6.50 to $7.50 for the full year 2026, implying approximately 20% growth compared to 2025 at the midpoint of the forecast [5]

Core Viewpoint - Delta Air Lines, Inc. is expected to report a decline in earnings per share (EPS) for the fiscal fourth quarter of 2025, but analysts remain optimistic about its long-term growth potential and overall performance in the airline industry [2][3]. Financial Performance - Analysts anticipate Delta to report a profit of $1.58 per share on a diluted basis for Q4 2025, which represents a 14.6% decrease from $1.85 per share in the same quarter last year [2]. - For the full fiscal year 2025, EPS is expected to be $5.85, down 5% from $6.16 in fiscal 2024, but projected to rise 21.2% year over year to $7.09 in fiscal 2026 [3]. Stock Performance - Delta's stock has outperformed the S&P 500 Index, gaining 14.7% over the past 52 weeks compared to the index's 11.1% increase [4]. - The stock also surpassed the Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund's 12.7% gains during the same period [4]. Demand and Revenue Drivers - The airline's strong performance is attributed to high demand in premium and corporate travel, effective cost management, and a robust loyalty program [5]. - Growth in premium revenue is supported by new aircraft and retrofits, while the SkyMiles program and partnership with American Express have driven double-digit revenue gains [5]. - Corporate travel volumes have exceeded pre-pandemic levels, contributing to strong fare growth and operational reliability [5]. Recent Earnings Report - On October 9, Delta shares rose over 4% following the release of Q3 results, with revenue of $16.7 billion exceeding consensus estimates by 3.8% [6]. - The company's EPS for Q3 was reported at $2.17, surpassing consensus estimates by 39.8% [6]. Analyst Ratings - The consensus opinion on Delta stock is bullish, with a "Strong Buy" rating from 20 out of 22 analysts, one suggesting a "Moderate Buy," and one giving a "Hold" [7]. - The average analyst price target for Delta is $75.44, indicating a potential upside of 8.2% from current levels [7].