United Airlines Sees Strong Q2 With $1B Profit
United Airlines reported a 1.7% increase in revenue for the second quarter of 2025, driven by a rebound in demand, strong operational performance, and improved on-time metrics. According to its July 16 financial release, the airline’s total operating revenue reached $15.2 billion, supported by a 5.9% increase in capacity compared to Q2 2024.
Growth was seen across several revenue segments. Premium cabin sales rose by 5.6%, Basic Economy by 1.7%, cargo revenue increased by 3.8%, and loyalty program earnings climbed 8.7% year-over-year. United posted a net income of $1 billion, with adjusted net income at $1.3 billion for the quarter. Operating cash flow came in at $2.2 billion, while free cash flow totaled $1.1 billion.
United’s pre-tax earnings hit $1.2 billion with an 8.2% margin, while adjusted pre-tax income was $1.7 billion, yielding a margin of 11%. CEO Scott Kirby cited a reduction in global uncertainty as a positive factor, stating, “The world is less uncertain today than it was during the first six months of 2025 and that gives us confidence about a strong finish to the year.”
As business and leisure travel surged in early July, United raised its full-year earnings per share forecast to between $9 and $11. The company also expects another inflection in industry capacity growth by mid-August, mirroring trends seen in 2024.
Operational performance was another highlight. United led major U.S. carriers in on-time departures and seat completion rates for the second quarter. Its hubs in Newark, Los Angeles, and San Francisco recorded their best Q2 on-time departure performance since the pandemic. At Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), United achieved better on-time arrival rates than all carriers at LaGuardia and JFK.
The improved metrics followed operational recovery efforts after several disruptions earlier this year. In April and May 2025, Newark experienced major delays due to technical failures in Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) systems. Since then, United has restored reliability by adjusting flight schedules and coordinating with the FAA and Port Authority.
With passenger demand now returning to pre-disruption levels at Newark, United is further expanding its international network. The airline confirmed it will resume service to Tel Aviv on July 21, 2025.
The second-quarter performance reinforces United’s outlook for a robust second half of the year, as it capitalizes on returning demand, reduced volatility, and operational improvements across key markets.
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