United Airlines (UAL) just crushed Wall Street’s expectations with stellar third-quarter results. The airline posted pre-tax earnings of $1.3 billion, boasting an 8.2% pre-tax margin.
On an adjusted basis, pre-tax earnings hit $1.2 billion with an 8.0% margin. Total operating revenue climbed 2.6% year-over-year to $15.2 billion.
These numbers prove United’s strength in a rocky economy, all thanks to loyal customers who pick United for its unbeatable value.
Thriving on Diverse Revenue Streams
A mix of revenue sources has been a key strategic factor in the successes for the quarter. In Q3, premium cabin revenue jumped 6% year-over-year.
Basic Economy revenue rose 4%, cargo revenue grew 3%, and loyalty revenue soared 9%. This momentum rolls into Q4 2025, where United expects its highest single-quarter revenue ever.
CEO Scott Kirby credits smart investments. “We’ve poured resources into every price point,” he said. Think seatback screens, a top mobile app, extra legroom, lie-flat United Polaris seats, and free Starlink Wi-Fi on all planes by 2027.
“Customers love the United experience. It builds loyalty. Our decade-long investments, plus amazing service from our team, create economic resilience—even in volatile times. Now, with improving demand, we’re seeing huge upside in Q4.”
Big Bets on Customer Experience
United now plans over $1 billion in upgrades, including Starlink, seatback screens, and 25% more on food. Over half the narrowbody fleet now features signature interiors and screens. The result is a 15-point jump in inflight entertainment satisfaction since Q3 2022.
In 2026, another $1 billion will head to customer perks.
Reliability seals the deal. United hit its best Q3 completion factor ever. It flew 48 million customers—the most in any quarter—with 2,940 daily mainline flights averaging 427,000 passengers a day.
Six of seven hubs ranked top for on-time departures. This is notable, as on-time arrivals make customers three times more likely to recommend United.
Expanding Network
United’s global reach draws fans. Last week, it announced summer 2026 flights to Split, Croatia; Glasgow, Scotland; Santiago de Compostela, Spain; and Bari, Italy.
It also revives all six new Atlantic routes from summer 2025. As the biggest Atlantic carrier, United serves 46 cities in 2026.
“Customers want value from Basic Economy to Polaris,” Kirby added. “We’re the airline they choose—for U.S. trips or worldwide adventures.”
Q3 Financial Snapshot
Key Q3 Wins at a Glance
Record Schedule: Largest daily mainline ops ever—48 million customers on 2,940 flights to 142 destinations, including 400+ daily international roundtrips.
Entertainment Boost: Half the narrowbody fleet upgraded; 15-point satisfaction rise since Q3 2022.
Food Focus: $85 million invested; $45 million more in 2026. Highest Q3 satisfaction since 2022.
Tel Aviv Return: Flights resume from Chicago O’Hare and Washington Dulles in early November—first since 2023.
Starlink Launch: FAA-certified first plane today. Free for MileagePlus members with streaming, shopping, and gaming.
Operational Performance
Operations also saw strong gains, with Newark hub enjoying its best summer ever. The FAA capped flights at 72 per hour through October 2026.
At Chicago O’Hare, four new gates opened in October, with a fifth expected soon, thanks to the city’s redetermination.
United set a Q3 completion record. United Express hit 43 perfect days and 923 year-to-date— a company first. In Houston, groundbreaking for a high-tech catering facility promises faster, better meals with automation.
Conclusion
United’s formula has included investment in people, tech, and routes. Loyal customers fuel resilience and growth.
As Q4 demand surges, expect record revenue. Kirby sums it up: “United delivers full-travel value. It’s the choice for flyers everywhere.”
