Delta Air Lines projects $1b second-quarter profit despite rising fuel costs

US carrier Delta Air Lines has reported operating revenue of $15.9 billion and an operating profit of $501 million for the first quarter of 2025, and has projected second-quarter profit of approximately $1 billion (€920 million) despite ongoing fuel cost pressures across the global aviation sector.

According to Irish Travel and Trade Network, Delta's first-quarter earnings were more than 40% higher than the same period last year, achieved against a backdrop of significant fuel cost increases and wider industry operational disruptions.

Chief Executive Ed Bastian said the results underscored the durability of Delta's financial foundation and the strength of its brand. On the second-quarter outlook, Bastian said: "In the June quarter, we expect to lead the industry with $1 billion of profit. And while the recent fuel spike is currently impacting earnings, I'm confident this environment ultimately reinforces Delta's leadership and accelerates long-term earnings power."

In response to the fuel environment, Delta said it was reducing capacity growth with a downward bias until conditions improve, while moving to recapture higher fuel costs through pricing and revenue management measures.

Bastian also noted that Delta distributed $1.3 billion (€1.2 billion) in profit-sharing payouts to employees in February, a figure he described as more than the rest of the industry combined.

Fuel remains one of the most significant cost variables for network carriers globally. Jet fuel prices have remained volatile in 2025, driven by fluctuating crude oil markets and refinery capacity constraints, with carriers across the US and Europe adjusting capacity and hedging strategies accordingly.

Delta operates its own refinery through Monroe Energy, providing a degree of insulation against spot market fuel price movements that most peers do not have access to.

Explore the full story on how Delta Air Lines is navigating fuel volatility while sustaining strong profitability and reinforcing its industry leadership.