Delta Air Lines has reported solid financial results for the September quarter, with profits coming in at the top end of expectations, and said it remains on track for a strong finish to 2025.
The US carrier posted operating revenue of $16.7bn (£13.3bn) for the three months to the end of September, alongside operating income of $1.7bn and a margin of 10.1%. Pre-tax income totalled $1.8bn, giving a pre-tax margin of 10.7%, while earnings per share stood at $2.17.
Delta also generated $1.8bn in operating cash flow and repaid $459m in debt and finance lease obligations, leaving total debt at $14.9bn at the end of the quarter.
Chief executive Ed Bastian said the airline’s performance reflected “strong execution and improving fundamentals”, crediting staff for helping to strengthen Delta’s industry position.
“Delta’s competitive advantages and differentiation have never been more evident,” he said.
“We continue to elevate the customer experience and extend our industry leadership. Momentum is continuing into the final stretch of our centennial year, positioning us to deliver strong December quarter earnings.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Mr Bastian said Delta was well placed to deliver further revenue growth, margin expansion and earnings improvement in line with its long-term financial goals.
