United Airlines Beats Q4 EPS, Raises 2026 Outlook and Overhauls Loyalty Program
United Airlines reported Q4 adjusted EPS of $3.10 on $15.4 billion revenue, exceeding estimates with passenger revenues up 4.9% and cargo revenues down 6%. The airline projects 2026 adjusted EPS of $12.00–$14.00 and introduced a MileagePlus overhaul rewarding co-branded credit-card spenders with increased miles and lower redemption rates.
1. Q4 Earnings Performance
United Airlines posted Q4 adjusted EPS of $3.10, surpassing consensus estimates, on operating revenues of $15.4 billion. Passenger revenues climbed 4.9% to $13.9 billion while cargo revenues declined 6% to $490 million, and consolidated unit revenue per available seat mile fell 1.6%.
2. 2026 Outlook
The airline expects 2026 adjusted EPS between $12.00 and $14.00 and plans capital expenditures below $8 billion. For Q1 2026, it forecasts adjusted EPS of $1.00–$1.50, driven by continued capacity growth and cost controls.
3. Share Performance and Metrics
Shares have gained 5.4% since the Q4 release, outperforming the broader market. Investor metric scores reflect a B aggregate rating, driven by an A on value and C ratings on growth and momentum, with estimates revised upward by nearly 30% over the past month.
4. MileagePlus Program Overhaul
United introduced its largest loyalty program update in over a decade, shifting rewards to favor co-branded credit-card spenders with increased mile accrual and lower redemption thresholds. This overhaul is designed to boost high-spender revenue and could influence yield trends once rolled out.