Delta Air Lines, Inc. is preparing to disclose its fourth-quarter financial performance before the market opens on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the airline is anticipated by analysts to report earnings per share (EPS) of $1.57, representing an increase from $1.29 EPS reported in the corresponding quarter the previous year. Meanwhile, the consensus revenue estimate stands at approximately $15.69 billion, showing a modest rise from $15.56 billion in the same period last year, according to Benzinga Pro data.
In a recent development on January 5, Sphere Entertainment Co. announced a partnership with Delta Air Lines, designating the carrier as its Official Airline. This collaboration underscores Delta's strategic efforts to fortify its market presence within entertainment industry circles.
Notwithstanding the upbeat expectations surrounding Delta's forthcoming earnings call, shares of Delta Air Lines witnessed a slight downturn, declining 0.8% to close at $71.65 on the preceding Wednesday.
Analyst Perspectives Leading into the Earnings Call
The days leading up to the earnings announcement have seen a series of forecast adjustments from some of the most accurate analysts tracking Delta Air Lines. Their views, informed by a track record of prior performance predictions, provide key insights into market sentiment and potential stock trajectory.
- TD Cowen: Tom Fitzgerald sustained a Buy rating on January 7, 2026, while raising his price target from $77 to $82. His calls have historically demonstrated a 74% accuracy rate.
- Goldman Sachs: Catherine O’Brien upheld a Buy rating as of January 6, 2026, lifting the price target from $68 to $77. Her past accuracy rate is recorded at 51%.
- Bank of America Securities: Andrew Didora maintained a Buy rating with an increased price target moving from $74 to $80 on January 6, 2026. Didora’s accuracy rate stands at 54%.
- Wells Fargo: Christian Wetherbee initiated coverage of Delta’s stock on December 18, 2025, issuing an Overweight rating accompanied by a $87 price target. Wetherbee's analyst accuracy is noted at 73%.
- Citigroup: John Godyn began coverage on December 4, 2025, assigning a Buy rating and setting a price target at $77. His forecast accuracy is 64%.
Stock Performance and Market Context
Despite the largely favorable analyst ratings, Delta’s stock price experienced a modest retreat prior to the earnings release. This could be indicative of investor caution or profit-taking ahead of the quarterly report. Market participants will be closely watching not only the reported financial figures but also management commentary on operational challenges, competitive positioning, and revenue trends.
The inclusion of Delta as Sphere Entertainment’s Official Airline highlights an expansion of partnership opportunities, potentially augmenting brand visibility and customer engagement in entertainment sectors. Such strategic collaborations might support revenue diversification, although the direct financial impact remains to be seen.
Summary of Analyst Ratings
All recently active analysts covering Delta Air Lines have adopted Buy or Overweight stances, accompanied by price target increases. These adjustments reflect confidence in Delta’s capacity to deliver growth in earnings and revenues following recent market and operational developments.
The price targets range between $77 and $87, suggesting a continued upside potential from current trading levels. The variation in target prices likely reflects differing assumptions on airline industry conditions, cost pressures, and competitive dynamics.
Key Points
- Delta Air Lines to report Q4 earnings before market open on January 13, 2026.
- Projected EPS of $1.57 and revenue of $15.69 billion indicate expected year-over-year growth.
- Five prominent analysts maintain Buy or Overweight ratings, increasing price targets toward $82–$87.
- Sphere Entertainment names Delta as Official Airline, signaling a new strategic partnership.
- Shares declined slightly to $71.65 ahead of earnings, reflecting market caution.
Risks and Uncertainties
- Delta’s share price dip prior to earnings may indicate investor concerns or volatility leading into report.
- Accuracy rates of analysts vary significantly, from 51% to 74%, underscoring forecast uncertainty.
- The financial impact of Sphere Entertainment partnership is not yet quantified, introducing unpredictability.
- Broader industry factors affecting revenues and costs are not detailed, adding to uncertainty in projections.