Delta stock soars after earnings beat, reinstated guidance; CEO says tax bill and trade deals are removing uncertainty

Key Points

  • Delta Air Lines (DAL) reported strong Q2 results with adjusted revenue of $15.5 billion, slightly below estimates, and EPS of $2.10, surpassing expectations.
  • Delta reinstated its full-year EPS guidance of $5.25 to $6.25, reflecting improved economic clarity and confidence amidst global trade war challenges.
  • The airline saw a stock surge of over 10%, triggering a sector-wide rally with gains in American Airlines (AAL), Southwest (LUV), and United Airlines (UAL).
  • Premium revenue outperformed economy by 5%, and loyalty revenue grew 8%, driven by co-branded credit card spending with American Express.
  • CEO Ed Bastian highlighted strong summer travel demand, especially internationally, and emphasized Delta’s focus on premium services as a competitive edge.

Summary

Delta Air Lines, the world’s largest carrier by revenue, reported robust second-quarter results, posting adjusted revenue of $15.5 billion and earnings per share of $2.10, beating expectations. Despite a slight revenue shortfall, the airline reinstated its full-year EPS guidance at $5.25 to $6.25, buoyed by improving economic conditions and progress in trade negotiations. Delta’s stock jumped over 10%, sparking a rally across the airline sector, with peers like American Airlines, Southwest, and United Airlines also seeing gains. CEO Ed Bastian noted stronger demand for the second half of the year, driven by consumer and business confidence, and highlighted Delta’s edge over budget carriers due to its focus on premium and business travelers. Premium revenue grew 5% faster than economy, while loyalty revenue rose 8%, fueled by partnerships like American Express. Bastian also praised a strong summer travel season, particularly internationally, despite trade war impacts on foreign passenger numbers. Delta’s investment in premium services and reliability positions it to capitalize on industry trends favoring quality experiences at competitive prices.

yahoo
July 10, 2025
Stocks
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