Delta Air Lines wrapped up a strong winter quarter, posting GAAP operating revenue of $16 billion and operating income of $1.5 billion, delivering a solid 9.2% operating margin despite a challenging environment.
Income before tax was $1.5 billion, and earnings per share were $1.86. For the period, cash flows from operating activities amounted to $2.3 billion.
Delta’s financial performance in 2025 shows that its operating revenue soared to $63.4 billion, while operating income was $5.8 billion, enabling the airline to maintain a 9.2% operating margin throughout the year. Pre-tax profit was increased to $6.2 billion, with a corresponding pre-tax margin of 9.8%, and full-year earnings per share of $7.66.
Delta’s cash flow from operations was $8.3 billion, out of which $4.8 billion was allocated towards paying off debts and financing lease obligations. Consequently, the company’s overall debt and lease liabilities stood at $14.1 billion at year-end.
According to CEO Ed Bastian, the results were a testimony to the strength and uniqueness of Delta that has been built over the years. He particularly noted the airline’s achievement of $5 billion in pre-tax profit with double-digit margins and $4.6 billion in record free cash flow, stating that the employees were the ones to be credited for the performance.
Bastian added that Delta plans to distribute $1.3 billion in profit sharing to staff, calling it ‘well-earned’.
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Delta forecasts that 2026 has been a strong start, with revenue growth boosted by consumer and corporate demand.
The carrier anticipates a yearly margin increase and profit rise of around 20% over last year, which shows its trust in the demand trends and the premium-led strategy, though there is uncertainty in the industry.