An American Airlines Airbus A321 departs from Los Angeles International Airport heading to Orlando on March 30, 2025.
Kevin Carter | Getty Images News | Getty Images
american airlines reported a smaller-than-expected third-quarter loss and its stock rose after its outlook for the rest of the year exceeded Wall Street expectations.
American Airlines expects fourth-quarter earnings to range from 45 cents to 75 cents a share, beating analysts’ expectations of 31 cents a share. As a result, American Airlines now expects full-year earnings to range from 65 cents to 95 cents a share, well above Wall Street’s estimate of 43 cents a share. The company expects production capacity to increase 3% to 5% year over year in the fourth quarter.
In what used to be a tough quarter, airlines have found it harder to turn a profit in the summer than in years past. Schools are reopening earlier than before, and some travelers are opting for larger trips later in the year when the weather is cooler and many popular destinations are less crowded.
American Airlines reported a net loss of $114 million, or 17 cents per share, on revenue of $13.69 billion. Sales increased by 0.3% from the previous year.
American Airlines’ third-quarter outlook in July disappointed investors, but other airlines also cut their full-year profit outlooks as customers factored in a round of tariffs and economic uncertainty that led to weaker demand in early 2025.
A glut of domestic flights this year has prompted airlines to scale back growth plans to avoid unprofitable flights.
Here’s how American Airlines’ third-quarter results compared to Wall Street’s expectations compiled by LSEG:
Loss per share: 17 cents adjusted, 28 cents expected Lost earnings: $13.69 billion, $13.63 billion expected
