Delta Air Lines reported strong fourth quarter results, with record revenue of $14.61 billion, slightly below estimates. Adjusted EPS was $1.55, beating expectations of $1.53. Looking ahead, Delta projects revenue growth of 5-7% in Q1 and a 20% jump in adjusted EPS for the year, driven by premium clientele.

CEO Ed Bastian highlighted Delta’s premium-focused clientele driving growth, with all seat growth in premium cabins. The company’s success is attributed to catering to high-net-income consumers prioritizing travel and premium experiences.

Despite challenges in 2025, including the government shutdown and tariffs, Delta sees a promising start to 2026 with accelerating growth in consumer and corporate demand. The airline expects no repeat of previous headwinds this year, setting a positive outlook for the future.

Delta’s international business remains strong, with a 5% year-over-year growth in Q4 driven by the Transatlantic and Pacific regions. 90% of corporate clients anticipate steady or increasing travel in 2026, boding well for Delta’s international operations.

American Express card remuneration grew 11% in 2025 to $8.2 billion, driven by co-branded spending on cards like the Delta Platinum Reserve. Delta anticipates high-single-digit growth in 2026, as affluent consumers choose Delta cards for rewards and travel perks.

Delta CEO Bastian is optimistic about the future of the co-branded credit card business, projecting remuneration to hit $10 billion in the coming years. With a growing base of travelers and spend rate, Delta sees continued success in the premium credit card market.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Delta beats on Q4 earnings, sees more growth due to its ‘K-shaped’ higher-end customers