Delta Air Lines, Inc. is on the verge of releasing its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings for 2025. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the airline, with a market capitalization of $46.5 billion, is expected to announce a profit of $1.58 per share on a diluted basis, reflecting a 14.6% decrease from $1.85 per share during the same period last year. This anticipated decline comes despite the company having exceeded consensus estimates in each of the last four quarters.
Analysts project that for the full fiscal year, Delta will report earnings per share (EPS) of $5.85, marking a 5% decrease from $6.16 in fiscal 2024. However, they forecast a rebound in fiscal 2026, with EPS expected to rise by 21.2% to $7.09. This optimistic outlook reflects strong demand in premium and corporate travel, as well as effective cost management strategies and a robust loyalty program.
Despite the anticipated dip in the upcoming earnings report, Delta Air Lines has outperformed the S&P 500 Index, which has seen gains of 11.1% over the past 52 weeks. During this same timeframe, Delta’s stock has risen by 14.7%, outperforming the Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund, which gained 12.7%.
Strong Corporate Travel Demand Fuels Growth
The airline’s success is attributed to several factors, including a significant surge in corporate travel volumes that have surpassed pre-pandemic levels. Strong fare growth, operational reliability, and an expansion of premium revenue driven by new aircraft and retrofits have significantly boosted the airline’s performance. The growth in its SkyMiles program, in partnership with American Express Company, has also contributed to double-digit revenue gains.
On October 9, 2025, Delta’s shares closed up by more than 4% after the company reported its third-quarter results. The revenue for this quarter reached $16.7 billion, exceeding consensus estimates by 3.8%. The airline’s EPS for Q3 was reported at $2.17, surpassing analysts’ expectations by an impressive 39.8%.
Analysts Remain Bullish on Delta Stock
The consensus opinion among analysts regarding Delta Air Lines stock remains overwhelmingly positive, with a “Strong Buy” rating overall. Out of the 22 analysts covering the stock, 20 recommend a “Strong Buy,” one suggests a “Moderate Buy,” and one indicates a “Hold.” The average analyst price target for Delta stands at $75.44, suggesting a potential upside of 8.2% from current levels.
With the upcoming earnings report and the prevailing market conditions, all eyes will be on Delta Air Lines as it navigates the challenges and opportunities in the aviation industry. The company’s ability to maintain momentum in premium travel and effectively manage costs will be key factors influencing its performance in the coming quarters.
