As the world’s busiest airport and Delta Air Lines’ global headquarters, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport stands to benefit from the carrier’s cautiously optimistic outlook for the holiday travel rush, even as third-quarter profits dipped amid higher costs and softening demand.I
In its latest earnings release, Delta reported total operating revenue of $15.4 billion for the September quarter, a 2% increase from the prior year, driven by strong demand for premium cabins and loyalty program perks.
Delta Forecasts Strong Holiday Season
However, pre-tax income fell to $1.3 billion from $1.6 billion a year ago, with net income dropping to $1.0 billion and adjusted earnings per share at $1.50, down from $2.10.
The airline pointed to moderated travel demand and elevated expenses as key factors, partially offset by a 5% surge in premium revenue from Delta One and First Class seats – a segment that’s increasingly popular among business travelers routing through Atlanta.
Looking ahead, Delta forecasts flat to 2% revenue growth for the December quarter, with capacity at its Atlanta hub expected to rise 2-3% year-over-year, prioritizing international routes that connect the city to global markets.
The airline industry has had to deal with customers’ pulling back amid inflationary pressures in the early part of the year.
Top 5 U.S. Airlines: Trailing Twelve Months Net Income
The top five major U.S. airlines by revenue—Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines—have shown varied profitability over the trailing twelve months ending June 30, 2025. Here’s a look:
| Airline | TTM Net Income (USD) |
|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | $4.49 billion |
| United Airlines | $3.31 billion |
| American Airlines | $567 million |
| Southwest Airlines | $392 million |
| Alaska Airlines | $313 million |
This expansion could mean more flights and jobs for the 30,000-plus Delta employees based in metro Atlanta, bolstering the local economy during peak season.
The company also highlighted its “Win on the Wings” initiative, investing in employee training and AI-powered personalization to enhance customer experiences – potentially reducing delays at ATL and improving on-time performance, which hit record highs this quarter.
What Is Delta’ws Win on the Wings Initiative?
At the heart of the carrier’s latest strategy is the “Win on the Wings” program – a multifaceted operational excellence push designed to streamline flights, slash costs, and empower the 30,000-plus Delta workers calling metro Atlanta home.Launched as part of Delta’s broader transformation playbook, “Win on the Wings” isn’t just corporate jargon; it’s a targeted effort to make every takeoff and landing more efficient, sustainable, and employee-friendly.
The initiative sets ambitious goals: a 20% reduction in aircraft turnaround times and a 10% drop in fuel costs, achieved through smarter routing algorithms and greater adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
For ATL – Delta’s bustling super-hub handling over 1,000 daily flights – this could translate to fewer delays for passengers rushing to catch connections to Europe or the Caribbean, and a greener footprint for the world’s busiest airport.
But the real wings under this program belong to Delta’s frontline teams. A key pillar involves cross-training for ground crew, equipping ramp agents, mechanics, and baggage handlers with versatile skills to handle peak-season chaos more nimbly.
This builds on Delta’s $1 billion, three-year pledge to upskill its entire 80,000-employee workforce in digital tools and customer service mastery, fostering leadership and retention in a high-turnover industry.
Final Word
For Atlanta’s traveling public and tourism sector, the news underscores a resilient aviation giant navigating economic headwinds while doubling down on premium perks and tech upgrades. Full-year capital spending remains on track at $3 billion, with free cash flow projected to top that figure, signaling long-term stability for the Peach State’s flagship carrier.
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