A4A says US carriers' 1Q2016 results reflect improving finances

Airlines for America (A4A) stated (18-May-2016) the 1Q2016 results reflect the improving finances of Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines and Virgin America. The carriers collectively reported pre-tax earnings of USD4.8 billion, resulting in a margin of 13.2%. Operating revenues in 2016 were flat, as 6.7% lower fares offset 6.2% traffic growth. Airline operating expenses fell 1.5%, as lower fuel costs offset higher employee wages and benefits, which rose 12.6% to USD10.5 billion. [more - original PR]