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Delta Posts Q4 Beat and Projects Strong 2026 on Premium Demand

Executives say higher-spending travelers are driving growth following last year’s temporary disruptions.

Overview

  • Delta reported Q4 adjusted revenue of $14.61 billion and adjusted EPS of $1.55, topping expectations, with an estimated $0.25 per-share hit from the government shutdown.
  • Guidance calls for Q1 revenue growth of 5%–7% with adjusted EPS of $0.50–$0.90, and full-year 2026 adjusted EPS of $6.50–$7.50 with $3–$4 billion in free cash flow.
  • Management says growth is concentrated among premium customers, with all planned seat growth allocated to premium cabins and premium ticket revenue in Q4 surpassing main cabin.
  • For 2025, Delta cited about $5 billion in pre-tax profit, a double-digit operating margin, and record $4.6 billion in free cash flow, alongside international revenue up roughly 5% and a solid corporate travel outlook.
  • Delta said it will purchase 30 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, with options for 30 more, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2031.