Here's Why Delta Is The Best Of Big 3 Airlines

While Delta Air Lines, Inc. DAL seems to be “the highest quality carrier among the Big 3,” there are near-term uncertainties, Imperial Capital’s Michael Derchin said in a report. He initiated coverage of Delta with an In-Line rating and a price target of $41.

Best Of US Big 3

Delta was the first network airline to recognize the inherent in the cyclical airline industry, and also implement a plan to “de-risk its business, identify financial goals, and reward stakeholders,” analyst Derchin mentioned. He named the Big 3 as Delta, American Airlines Group Inc AAL and United Continental Holdings Inc UAL.

Derchin believes Delta is the “highest quality stock among the U.S. “Big 3” carriers,” since the company is the only one to have investment grade corporate credit rating as well as industry-leading margins, FCF generation, and an established capital deployment plan.

Management began to de-risk the business and generate sustainable returns after the recession in 2009, which coincided with high and volatile jet fuel prices and credit crisis. “One of the most significant results of the restructuring was a significant reduction in seasonality with margins during off-peak quarters now more typical of margins generated during the peaks in previous cycles,” the analyst wrote.

Near Term Uncertainties

Derchin noted some unexpected macro events that have led to near-term concerns, including:
Brexit and its potential impact on UK business travel
Deteriorating economic, social, and terrorism problems in Europe

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