Summary by Futu AI
Delta Air Lines, Inc. (Delta) reported its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2024, with operating revenue reaching $13.7 billion and operating income of $614 million, resulting in an operating margin of 4.5 percent. The adjusted financial results showed a 6 percent increase in operating revenue compared to the same quarter in 2023, with operating income of $640 million and a 5.1 percent operating margin. The company achieved a pre-tax income of $380 million and earnings per share of $0.45. Delta also reported strong operational performance, leading to a record March quarter completion factor. The airline anticipates continued momentum, expecting record revenue, a mid-teens operating margin, and earnings per share of $2.20 to $2.50 for the June quarter. Delta reiterates its 2024 outlook for earnings per share of $6 to $7 and free cash flow of $3 to $4 billion. The company's adjusted debt to EBITDAR was 2.9x, down from 3.0x at the end of 2023, and the return on invested capital was 13.8 percent on a trailing five-quarter average, up 2.8 points over the prior year.