Delta Raises Q1 Revenue Guidance to $15–15.3B Despite $400M Fuel Headwind
Delta raised its first-quarter revenue growth outlook to high single digits, projecting $15.0–$15.3 billion in total revenue and absorbing a $400 million fuel cost increase. CEO Ed Bastian said unit revenues grew mid-single digits and bookings rose 25% year-over-year with eight of its top ten sales days, lifting shares over 4%.
1. Company Raises Q1 Revenue Guidance
Delta Air Lines raised its revenue growth outlook for the first quarter to the high single digits, up from an initial range of 5% to 7%, projecting total revenue between $15.0 billion and $15.3 billion.
2. Fuel Cost Headwind Absorbed
Despite an approximately $400 million increase in jet fuel expenses—assuming an average cost of $2.75 per gallon—Delta maintained its earnings guidance range and highlighted its capacity flexibility.
3. Demand Surge Drives Metrics
CEO Ed Bastian reported that domestic and international unit revenues grew in the mid-single digits, bookings jumped 25% year-over-year with eight of the top ten sales days this quarter, and shares rose over 4% on the news.