5 Largest Airlines in the World in 2024

This article looks at the 5 Largest Airlines in the World in 2024. If you wish to check out our detailed discussion on the airline industry, you may go to 20 Largest Airlines in the World in 2024.

5. American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQGS:AAL)

Market Capitalization: $9.61 billion

American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQGS:AAL) is really holding its own in the airline game, offering top-notch services and keeping folks connected worldwide with their flights.

American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQGS:AAL) had a standout year, pulling in a whopping $53 billion in revenue for the year ended, December 31, 2023. For the fourth quarter of 2023, they hit $19 million in GAAP net income, and over the whole year, they banked a cool $822 million. When it comes to earnings per share, they nailed $0.03 for the quarter and $1.21 for the full year.

4. United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQGS:UAL)

Market Capitalization: $14.20 billion

United Airlines Holdings, Inc., a publicly traded airline holding company based in the Willis Tower in Chicago, has reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2023, ending 31 December. The company posted full-year diluted earnings per share of $7.89 and adjusted full-year diluted earnings per share of $10.05. United Airlines met its initial full-year target of $10 to $12, as set at the beginning of 2023.

3. Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV)

Market Capitalization: $20.44 billion

Southwest Airlines Co., a prominent American airline following a low-cost carrier model and based in Dallas, Texas, announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ending on December 31, 2023. In the fourth quarter, the company reported a net loss of $219 million, or a loss of $0.37 per diluted share. Excluding special items, the net income for the same quarter was $233 million, or $0.37 per diluted share. For the full year, Southwest Airlines disclosed a net income of $498 million, equivalent to $0.81 per diluted share.

2. Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL)

Market Capitalization: $27.17 billion

Ever dreamt of catching a total solar eclipse from way up high? Well, Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL) has got something exciting in store for you this April. They’re planning a special flight from Austin to Detroit on April 8, 2024, just for eclipse enthusiasts like yourself who want to witness the magic in the path of totality. Their ace team went above and beyond to deliver top-notch service, leaving their customers all smiles and keeping Delta flying high.

Taking a peek at their financial highlights for the December quarter 2023, Delta raked in an impressive $14.2 billion in operating revenue and scored an operating income of $1.3 billion, boasting a sturdy operating margin of 9.3%. Their pre-tax income was a solid $2.3 billion, cruising with a pre-tax margin of 16.0%. Earnings per share looked good at $3.16. On top of that, their operating cash flow hit $545 million, and they directed $361 million toward managing their debt and finance lease obligations. All in all, Delta is making moves and shining bright in the skies.

1. Ryanair Holdings plc (NASDAQGS:RYAAY)

Market Capitalization: $32.27 billion

Ryanair Holdings PLC, an Irish ultra-low-cost carrier group with its headquarters in Swords, Dublin, Ireland, operates under various subsidiaries such as Ryanair DAC, Malta Air, Buzz, Lauda Europe, and Ryanair UK. Notably, Ryanair DAC, the group’s oldest airline, was established in 1984.

In terms of financial performance for the quarter ending on December 31, 2023, Ryanair Holdings PLC reported revenue of €2.70 billion, marking a 17% increase from the previous quarter. However, the net income experienced a significant decline, amounting to €14.8 million, down by 93% from the third quarter of 2023. The profit margin also decreased to 0.5%, down from 8.7% in the third quarter of 2023.

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