United Airlines (UAL) has reported fourth-quarter 2024 financial results that beat Wall Street forecasts on the top and bottom lines.
The Chicago-based carrier announced earnings per share (EPS) of $3.26 U.S., which was better than the $3 U.S. expected among analysts. The profit was up 64% year-over-year.
Revenue in the October through December period totaled $14.70 billion U.S., which topped the consensus forecast of $14.47 billion U.S. Sales were up 8% from a year earlier.
United’s management team said it is benefitting from strong demand for pricier seats in business class, international travel, and its large loyalty rewards program.
In the fourth quarter, United’s loyalty-program revenue, as well as international, domestic, and basic economy-class ticket sales all rose from a year earlier.
Looking ahead, United Airlines forecast first-quarter earnings that surpassed analysts’ estimates as the carrier sees continued growth throughout 2025 due to strong travel demand.
The carrier said that it expects to earn an adjusted $0.75 U.S. to $1.25 U.S. in the year’s first quarter, above the $0.54 U.S. that analysts had penciled in for the company.
For all of 2025, United expects earnings of $11.50 U.S. to $13.50 U.S., which is in line with Wall Street expectations that call for $12.82 U.S. per share.
United’s stock has risen 187% over the last 12 months to trade at $110.52 U.S. per share.
