The carrier anticipates a pre-tax profit of approximately $4.5B for the year and free cash flow of about $2.5B, with three year cumulative cash flow expected to exceed $10B. Delta forecasts revenue growth of about 20% year over year for the fourth quarter based on fuel prices of $4.25 per gallon. Management maintains that demand remains strong and targets mid-teens margins for the long term.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Story
Delta Cuts 2026 Profit Outlook to Absorb $6B Fuel Cost Increase
Earnings12 days ago
Delta Air Lines expects full year adjusted earnings per share of $5.10 to $5.60 for fiscal 2026, failing to meet the $5.46 estimate from IBES. The company reported third quarter adjusted EPS of $1.72 and adjusted operating revenue of $17.59B, both of which fell short of forecasts of $1.75 and $17.66B. The revised outlook follows a $6B increase in fuel expenses that has outpaced gains from fares.
Looking for more context or analysis?
Tilt chat provides reliable, tailored insights, alerts, and automations.