Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian Reflects on Momentum as Centennial Year Nears Conclusion
Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, shares insights on the airline's financial performance and future outlook as the company concludes its centennial year.
Delta Air Lines has recently disclosed its financial performance for the September quarter and prospects for the December quarter and full year 2025. CEO Ed Bastian highlighted that “Delta’s competitive advantages and differentiation have never been more evident, and thanks to the hard work of our people, we continue to elevate the customer experience and extend our industry leadership. We delivered September quarter results at the top end of our expectations based on strong execution and improving fundamentals.”
He also expressed confidence that “momentum is continuing into the final stretch of our Centennial year, positioning us to deliver strong December quarter earnings. Looking to 2026, Delta is well positioned to deliver top-line growth, margin expansion, and earnings improvement consistent with our long-term financial framework.”
September Quarter 2025 GAAP Financial Results
- Operating revenue of $16.7 billion
- Operating income of $1.7 billion with an operating margin of 10.1 percent
- Pre-tax income of $1.8 billion with a pre-tax margin of 10.7 percent
- Earnings per share of $2.17
- Operating cash flow of $1.8 billion
- Payments on debt and finance lease obligations of $459 million
- Total debt and finance lease obligations of $14.9 billion at quarter end.
