United Airlines (UAL) Q4 2024 Earnings

United Airlines forecast first-quarter earnings that beat analysts’ estimates as the carrier looks to boost profits again in 2025 thanks to strong travel demand.

The airline said Tuesday that LSEG estimates it expects to earn an adjusted 75 cents to $1.25 in the first three months of the year, beating the 54 cents expected by analysts.

United’s shares had risen more than 180% over the past 12 months as of Tuesday’s close, more than any other U.S. carrier. United shares rose more than 3% in extended trading after the results were released.

Here’s what United reported for the fourth quarter compared to Wall Street expectations, based on estimates compiled by LSEG:

• Earnings per share: $3.26 adjusted vs. $3.00 expected
• income: $14.70 billion versus the $14.47 billion expected

For the full year 2025, United expects adjusted earnings to increase to $11.50 to $13.50, in line with expectations of about $12.82, according to LSEG.

United and rival Delta have benefited from high demand for more expensive seats such as business class, international travel and their massive loyalty programs. Delta CEO Ed Bastian earlier this month said it expects 2025 to be the carrier’s “best financial year in our history.”

United reported fourth-quarter profit of $985 million, up 64% year-over-year, on revenue of $14.70 billion, up about 8% from a year earlier. Adjusted for one-time items, United reported $3.26 per share in the fourth quarter, also beating expectations.

Loyalty revenue, as well as international, domestic and core economy revenue, were up year-over-year, and unit revenue, which measures pricing power, turned positive compared to the same quarter in 2023.