undefined | Delta CEO says airline will 'meaningfully' cut growth plans, sees $300 million boost from its refinery Delta Air Lines said it will “meaningfully reduce” its capacity‑growth plans in the near term as jet‑fuel prices surge, joining United and JetBlue in hiking checked‑bag fees. The announcement helped the stock jump more than 11 % in pre‑market trading after oil prices fell, and the carrier signaled that overall capacity is likely to stay flat for the year. For the first quarter, Delta beat Wall Street expectations, reporting adjusted earnings of 64 cents per share versus the 57‑cent forecast and revenue of $14.2 billion versus the $14‑billion estimate. The airline warned that its fuel bill will be about $2 billion higher this quarter, but it forecast second‑quarter adjusted earnings of $1.00‑$1.50 per share (analysts saw $1.41) and revenue growth in the low‑teens percent. A key tailwind is its refinery near Philadelphia, which is expected to contribute a $300 million benefit and help Delta post roughly $1 billion in pre‑tax profit in Q2. Premium‑ticket revenue rose 14 % year‑over‑year, driven by stronger demand for first‑class and other higher‑priced seats, while main‑cabin revenue increased for the first time since late 2024. Although a brief slowdown in business travel was noted during a TSA line disruption, overall demand remains robust. Delta expects all‑in fuel costs of about $4.30 per gallon in the second quarter and is holding off on revising its full‑year outlook until fuel‑price volatility eases. Read more: undefined #deltaairlines #ceo #jetblue #wallstreet #business-travel