Delta Sees Robust Demand Going Into 2026 Amid Premium Focus

Delta Air Lines Inc. predicted continued strong demand into next year after reporting better-than-expected earnings for the third quarter, helped by leisure travelers splurging on premium seats and a rebound in corporate travel.

The stock rose the most since August after the carrier said adjusted earnings per share were $1.71, higher than the $1.56 average of analysts’ estimates compiled by Bloomberg. Full-year EPS will be about $6, also ahead of the analyst consensus, with Delta saying it’s “well positioned to deliver top-line growth, margin expansion and earnings improvement” next year.