‍DALLAS — United Airlines (UA) kicked off 2025 with its strongest first-quarter performance in half a decade, posting a profit of US$478 million and US$13.2 billion in revenue, despite a turbulent macroeconomic climate. The airline’s pre-tax margin rose to 3.6%, outpacing industry expectations and setting the tone for what United says will be a resilient year.

Adjusted pre-tax earnings reached US$391 million, with diluted earnings per share at US$1.16. The airline credited its performance to robust demand across multiple revenue streams, including premium cabins, international routes, and loyalty programs. UA saw a 9.2% rise in premium cabin revenue and year-over-year increases in business (7.4%), Basic Economy (7.6%), and cargo (9.7%).

CEO Scott Kirby praised the company’s post-pandemic strategy, highlighting how the "United Next" plan enables the airline to lead even in uncertain times. “Our ability to win brand-loyal customers and the resiliency of our business is a competitive advantage,” Kirby said. “We’re investing further in technology, service, and customer experience to widen that lead.”

Operations, Strategic Adjustments

United achieved its best operational performance since 2021, flying a record number of customers—over 450,000 per day on average—with notable improvements in on-time arrivals and departures and fewer seat cancellations.

The airline plans to reduce domestic capacity by 4% starting in Q3 to better align with demand and optimize fleet usage. It will also retire 21 aircraft earlier than scheduled and will continue to adjust off-peak flying.

Cash flow was another highlight. In Q1 alone, UA generated US$3.7 billion in operating cash flow and US$2.3 billion in free cash flow, bringing its trailing 12-month totals to over US$10 billion and US$5 billion, respectively. The airline also repurchased US$451 million in shares this year.

Customer Experience, Growth, Fleet

Customer satisfaction soared in Q1, rising 10% year-over-year and hitting record highs for pilot communication, check-in experience, and inflight entertainment. United's digital tools also saw record adoption, with 85% of passengers checking in via app or online.

Innovations include the FAA-certified rollout of Starlink WiFi, now expected on United Express flights by year-end, and new features in the United app, such as enhanced connection details and Spanish translations. United also enhanced its onboard offerings, bringing back popular snacks, debuting themed meals on Hawaii flights, and launching new wine and cocktail partnerships.

United took delivery of its 1,000th mainline jet, adding 69,000 premium seats daily—an increase of 7% year-over-year. It resumed service to Tel Aviv from Newark and launched its first-ever nonstop flight to Dominica. Additionally, the airline operated its largest Q1 schedule to the Caribbean, Latin America, and Africa.

Commitment to Community, Workforce

United employees logged nearly 7,000 volunteer hours in Q1, supporting global disaster relief and hosting community outreach programs. The airline was recognized by Forbes and Newsweek as a top employer and as an inclusive workplace. 

Chief Operations Officer Toby Enqvist was also elected to the Special Olympics International Board, reinforcing United’s commitment to inclusion and social impact.

As most financial reports highlight achievements, UA did not mention that dozens of former student pilots are accusing it of misrepresenting a well-equipped, intensive training program.

The federal lawsuit accuses UA and the school, United Aviate Academy, of not having enough teachers or aircraft to train and graduate its students properly, but that’s for another report.

United projects continued earnings strength in Q2 and for the full year, citing solid forward bookings, especially for premium and international travel.

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