U.S. airline stocks surged in afternoon trading after Southwest Airlines (LUV) and American Airlines (AAL) raised their fourth-quarter earnings forecasts, signaling optimism in the travel sector.
Key Stock Movements
- Southwest Airlines (LUV): Up 2.7%, now forecasting Q4 revenue per available seat mile (RASM) to rise 5.5%–7%, up from the earlier estimate of 3.5%–5.5%.
- American Airlines (AAL): Jumped 16%, revising its adjusted earnings per share (EPS) outlook to $0.55–$0.75, compared to its earlier range of $0.25–$0.50.
Broader Airline Sector Performance
- Delta Air Lines (DAL), United Airlines (UAL), Alaska Air Group (ALK): Shares rose between 1.5% and 4% in morning trading.
- S&P 1500 Airlines Index: Climbed 3%, reaching its highest level since June 2021.
JetBlue's Forecast
- JetBlue Airways (JBLU): Revised its 2024 revenue outlook with a smaller dip expected as domestic travel demand rebounds. Despite the update, JetBlue’s stock fell 0.98% as of 1:19 p.m. ET.
Market Impact
The raised forecasts reflect growing confidence in domestic travel demand and improving operating conditions, with airlines poised to benefit from a resilient travel market in the fourth quarter.
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