Delta CEO Ed Bastian says there’s 'no tit for tat' in Elon Musk feud as earnings miss
Delta Air Lines missed earnings estimates for the first time in two years, citing higher fuel costs. CEO Ed Bastian denied personal feud with Elon Musk, despite Delta choosing Amazon's Leo over Starlink for in-flight Wi-Fi. Delta reported record revenue of $17.6 billion but cut its 2026 profit forecast. The company expects December-quarter revenue growth of about 20% and full-year earnings of $5.10 to $5.60 per share, with a $6 billion increase in fuel costs.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
The earnings miss and guidance cut are likely to trigger short‑term selling pressure on DAL.
Market read
Delta's earnings miss is a material event for the airline sector and may influence broader transportation stocks.
What to watch
Potential upside from record premium revenue and upcoming fuel‑cost hedges could mitigate the downside.
Background
Delta's CEO discussed a feud with Elon Musk over Wi‑Fi providers while the airline reported its first earnings miss in two years.
Ticker impact
Delta Air Lines missed Q3 earnings estimates and cut its 2026 profit forecast, reporting a 62% rise in fuel expense and lower guidance.
downward pressure as investors price in weaker earnings and higher costs
The article provides the first public disclosure of the miss and guidance cut, which are material for a large‑cap carrier.
Market effects
Airline sector may see broader pressure from rising fuel costs and earnings misses.
U.S. equities, especially transportation, could be weighed down.
Limited to carriers; no immediate global macro effect.
Counterpoint
If Delta can secure lower‑cost Wi‑Fi solutions and maintain premium revenue growth, the miss may be temporary.
Key entities
- companyDelta Air Lines
U.S. airline reporting earnings miss and guidance cut.
- individualElon Musk
CEO of SpaceX, involved in Wi‑Fi provider dispute.
