Delta Air Lines reported US$1.5 billion in pre-tax profit during the third quarter of 2026, matching the result recorded in the same period a year earlier, amid rising fuel costs. The U.S. carrier highlighted the strength of travel demand and projected full-year pre-tax profit of approximately US$4.5 billion.
Between July and September, Delta generated US$20.2 billion in operating revenue under GAAP, along with US$1.5 billion in operating income and an operating margin of 7.2%. Pre-tax income stood at US$1.1 billion, representing a 5.3% margin, while earnings per share reached US$1.15. Operating cash flow totaled US$1.7 billion.
On an adjusted, non-GAAP basis, operating revenue totaled US$17.6 billion. Under these metrics, the company reported US$1.7 billion in operating income, corresponding to a 9.4% operating margin, and US$1.5 billion in pre-tax income, equivalent to an 8.5% margin. Adjusted earnings per share were US$1.72.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian said demand remains strong, driven by consumers’ continued preference for experiences and travel. He also highlighted that the company generated US$1.9 billion in free cash flow through September.
Looking ahead to the end of 2026, Delta expects to generate approximately US$4.5 billion in pre-tax profit, despite absorbing a US$6 billion increase in fuel costs. The airline remains focused on profitable growth, targeting mid-teens margins and returns, sustained cash generation, and gross leverage of approximately one time.