Skift Take

Bastian’s drive for simplicity at Delta follows a disastrous week for rival American Airlines, which cut ties with its chief commercial officer and lowered its financial outlook. 

Gordon Smith

If last week was one American Airlines would rather forget, consider 2024 the year Delta Air Lines never wants to end.

Speaking on Saturday, Delta CEO Ed Bastian delivered an upbeat assessment across multiple key metrics for the airline. “Business is doing quite well, summer is progressing strongly and looking healthy. We expect our full-year [results] to be well within the guidance.” 

It was a message echoed by Delta President Glen Hauenstein, who described “continued strength through the spring and into the early summer.” Hauenstein said further record revenues were predicted, with the airline able to "fill up aeroplanes at very good fares."

Both Bastian and Hauenstein were speaking to reporters in Dubai on the eve of the IATA Annual General Meeting - the year’s largest gathering of senior airline leaders. 

Delta Doubles Down on Simplicity

Asked by Skift if missteps by American on its fare distribution strategy had directly benefited Delta, Bastian delivered a measured response. “We�