Don't Look Now, but Delta Air Lines Stock Is Up Nearly 50% in the Past Year

Delta Air Lines’ stock is up nearly 50% over the past 12 months, outpacing the S&P 500’s roughly 18% total return in the same period, despite a difficult macro environment. The article attributes Delta’s performance not to “meme mania” but to improved operating results. It notes much of the rally came after a March energy supply shock that pushed oil above $100 per barrel, with Delta benefiting as fuel-price pressure eased later. The airline absorbed higher jet fuel costs—up about $1.65 billion year over year—yet operating income fell only $238 million. Delta also reiterated full-year earnings guidance of $6.50 to $7.50 per share.