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Delta Air Lines (DAL) Q3 2026 earnings
CNBC • • general
Key Points:
- Delta Air Lines missed earnings estimates for the first time in two years and lowered its 2026 profit forecast due to persistently high fuel prices, with full-year adjusted EPS guidance cut to $5.10-$5.60 from $6.50-$7.50.
- Despite the challenges, CEO Ed Bastian noted that higher fares have not deterred travelers, who continue to book across all service classes and regions, supporting a strong consumer response.
- The airline forecasted a 20% revenue increase for Q4 compared to the previous year, driven partly by its refinery operations that help mitigate fuel cost volatility.
- In Q3, Delta reported adjusted EPS of $1.72, slightly below analyst expectations, with net income down 47% year-over-year to $756 million, impacted by soaring fuel costs following geopolitical tensions.
- Premium revenue grew 18% in Q3, outpacing the 12% increase in main cabin sales, highlighting a shift toward higher-yield customers amid rising airfare inflation.
