Delta posts profit despite rise in costs, vows to improve reliability

Delta Air Lines reported a quarterly profit Wednesday thanks to travelers willing to pay up to fly, more than making up for higher costs.

The carrier also vowed to improve reliability after an increase in delays and cancellations prompted it to scale back its summer schedule.

Delta shares were down more than 8% in morning trading after its adjusted results fell short of analyst estimates. Rivals’ shares also dropped more than the broader market, which slumped after inflation data came in higher than expected.

Delta said its third-quarter capacity would be 83% to 85% of 2019 levels, suggesting the airline is sticking with a conservative schedule compared with some rivals.

The company expects to see third-quarter sales 1% to 5% higher than three years ago, along with increased costs.