Delta Air Lines (DAL) delivered strong financial results for both the fourth quarter and full year of 2024, showcasing solid revenue growth, increased profitability, and a positive outlook heading into 2025.

In Q4 2024, Delta reported operating revenue of $14.4 billion, representing a 5.7% increase compared to the same quarter in 2023. The company posted net income of $1.6 billion, with earnings per share (EPS) of $1.85, marking a more than 40% increase year-over-year. Profitability improved as well, with an operating margin of 12%, up two percentage points from the previous year, reflecting more efficient operations and strong demand.

For the full year 2024, Delta achieved total operating revenue of $61.6 billion, a 6% increase over the $58.0 billion recorded in 2023. The airline reported net income of $3.5 billion and EPS of $6.16. While this was down from the $4.6 billion in net income and $7.21 EPS in 2023, the company maintained robust profitability and operational strength. Operating income rose to $6.0 billion, an increase of $474 million year-over-year, and Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) reached 13%, signaling effective use of capital and strong returns.

Delta’s solid performance was driven in part by a 6% increase in capacity, as demand for both domestic and international travel remained high. Additional growth drivers included a 14% rise in cargo revenue and a 9% increase in loyalty revenue, both contributing to overall revenue diversification and stability.

The airline also demonstrated excellent cash generation capabilities, producing $8 billion in operating cash flow and $3.4 billion in free cash flow for the year. This strong financial foundation positions Delta well for reinvestment, debt reduction, and shareholder returns.

Looking ahead to 2025, Delta’s management expressed confidence in continued momentum. The company is projecting revenue growth of 7% to 9% and expects EPS to exceed $7.35, underscoring its optimistic outlook for sustained profitability and operational excellence in the year to come.