Delta Air Lines expects record profits for 2025, driven by strong demand for premium seats in first and business class. CEO Ed Bastian says adjusted pre-tax profit is set to rise to $6 billion, compared to $5.2 billion the previous year. Earnings per share are projected at a minimum of $7.35, up from $6.16 in 2024. President Glen Hauenstein stated that both leisure and business travelers contributed to revenue growth. Baby boomers particularly prefer seats in the front cabins. In the fourth quarter of 2024, revenue from premium segments increased faster than in economy class. Demand for transatlantic flights also recorded a 4 percent increase compared to the previous year, contributing $2 billion to quarterly revenue. Analysts have an optimistic view of industry developments. Fitch analyst Joseph Rohlena described the environment as “healthy and stable.” Raymond James analyst Savanthi Syth emphasized the role of the strong US dollar, which is likely to further boost the demand for international travel. This particularly favors airlines like Delta with established transatlantic routes.

In the fourth quarter, Delta achieved the highest adjusted pre-tax profit in a December quarter with $1.6 billion. CFO Dan Janki emphasized that Delta met its annual targets despite a loss of 45 cents per share caused by a technical outage.