Delta reaffirms '26 profit guidance | Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Delta reaffirms its 2026 profit guidance, citing demand strength that offset the highest quarterly fuel expense in the carrier’s history. The Atlanta-based airline said adjusted second-quarter earnings came to $1.56 per share on Friday, ahead of analysts’ $1.51 estimate. Revenue increased 14% versus a year earlier, while capacity rose just 1%. Delta’s stock fell 1.8% to $87.39 at the New York close. The company attributed resilience to strong premium, corporate and international travel, and noted it is in the early stages of cabin segmentation. It also launched lower-priced “Basic” fares for Delta First, Delta Premium Select and Delta One, which reduce perks such as lounge access, flexible changes and advance seat assignments. Delta revived its 2026 adjusted earnings range of $6.50 to $7.50 per share issued in January, but withheld 2027 guidance as fuel remains a major risk, with fuel costs up 50%.