Delta Air Lines posts $14bn profit

Delta Air Lines has announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, showing huge profits despite the challenging aviation ecosystem.

The airline disclose this in a statement recently made available to journalists.

The statement explained that Delta generated $14.0 bn in operating revenue for the first quarter, with operating income totalling $569m and a pre-tax income of $320m.

The Chief Executive Officer of the airline, Ed Bastian, acknowledged that the first quarter unfolded differently than initially forecasted but commended the company’s resilience.

Bastian said, “While the first quarter unfolded differently than initially expected, we delivered solid profitability that was flat to the prior year and is expected to lead the industry.

“I would like to thank our people for their outstanding performance and hard work during the quarter,” he said.

According to the statement Delta’s operating margin stood at four per cent, while earnings per share came in at $0.37.

The airline also reported a healthy $2.4b in operating cash flow and made $531m in debt and lease payments, putting total debt and finance lease obligations down to $15.8b by the end of the quarter under review.

Despite a solid financial showing, Ed Bastian highlighted concerns about slower economic growth, primarily due to global trade uncertainties.

This has prompted the airline to take a cautious approach for the rest of the year. Delta plans to reduce capacity growth in the second half of 2025 to maintain flat year-over-year levels while actively managing costs and capital expenditures.

In the second quarter, Delta projects profitability in the range of $1.5 to $2bn. However, due to ongoing economic volatility, the airline has chosen not to issue a revised full-year outlook at this time.

Bastian expressed confidence in the airline’s strategy and positioning, saying, “We are well-positioned to deliver solid profitability and free cash flow for the year,” he said.

He added, “Delta’s results will continue to lead the industry and reflect our strategy to create differentiation and greater financial durability.”