Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is the largest domestic air carrier in the United States by passengers boarded. Southwest operates nearly 800 aircraft in an all-Boeing 737 fleet. Despite offering some longer routes and a few perks for business travelers, the airline predominantly specializes in short-haul, leisure flights operated in a single, open-seating cabin configuration in a point-to-point network. In 2025, Southwest will modify its cabins to offer some seats with extra legroom and will update its ticketing process to offer assigned seats.

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Morgan Stanley expects positive momentum on U.S. airline industry to extend into 2025, driven by premium carriers.

US Airlines Set To Fly High In 2025, Analyst Says: &#39;Perfect Storm Of Tailwinds&#39; Will Propel Industry Gains

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SAVE

Jim Cramer sees potential for continued strength in airline stocks, provided carriers maintain discipline in flight capacity management. His analysis comes on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024 as major carriers have seen significant stock appreciation in recent months.

Jim Cramer Says Airline Stocks &#39;Strength Can Continue&#39; Amid Structural Shifts: &#39;Ring The Register Before The Music Stops&#39;

Southwest Airlines.SWAExterior-3

Guidance

Buybacks

Movers

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AIRL

Southwest Airlines (LUV) to launch $750 million stock buyback program by Q1 2025. Revises Q4 guidance, expects RASM up 5.5-7.0% and lower capacity.

Southwest Airlines Lifts Q4 Guidance, Launches $750 Million Stock Buyback

Southwest Airlines Co

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The U.S. airline industry is gearing up for a blockbuster year in 2025, Morgan Stanley analysts say, predicting airline companies on the brink of what could be a &#8220;perfect storm of tailwinds that essentially propels the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/airlines">industry to make money.&#8221;</a>
Equity analyst Ravi Shanker reiterated a bullish stance on the airlines industry in a Wednesday note. 
The U.S. Global Jets ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JETS#NYSE">JETS</a>) has rallied 36% year-to-date, outperforming by about 9 percentage points the broader stock market as tracked by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>). 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Premium Carriers Poised For Another Stellar Year </h3>
&#8220;We expect demand to remain resilient with volume growth,&#8221; Shanker said. Legacy carriers like United Airlines Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>) and Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>) are reaping the rewards of what analysts call "the premiumization trend,&#8221; he added.
According to Morgan Stanley, these carriers benefit not just from ticket sales but from steady ancillary revenue streams, including loyalty programs, credit cards, and brand partnerships.
In 2024, UAL's stock soared over 150%, leading Morgan Stanley to raise its price target from $88 to $130. However, the extraordinary run places a high bar for further gains. 
Alaska Air Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALK#NYSE">ALK</a>) climbed to Morgan Stanley's top pick for 2025, with an upgraded price target of $90 on the back of "upsized synergy targets at their recent Investor Day."
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Domestic Airlines Eye A Comeback</h3>
While premium carriers dominated in 2024, several domestic-focused airlines are staging a resurgence. Low-cost and ultra-low-cost carriers, including JetBlue Airways Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBLU#NASDAQ">JBLU</a>) and Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>), faced a tough year marked by operational challenges and restructuring efforts.
"The other big shift in 2024 was several domestic carriers fundamentally changing their business models to fly less, fly differently, bundle fares, and move upmarket," Morgan Stanley highlighted. 
As these carriers stabilize operations, easier year-over-year comparisons position them for a strong recovery. 
Morgan Stanley resumed coverage of JBLU at &#8216;Equalweight&#8217; with a 12-month price target of $8. 
&#8220;We like the elements of the JetForward plan but note that the turnaround is likely to be slower with more elements outside of management&#8217;s control than other Domestic peers,&#8221; Shanker wrote.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Industry Metrics Flash Green For 2025</h3>
Morgan Stanley expects 2025 to mark the first sustained period where revenue per available seat mile (RASM) exceeds cost per available seat mile (CASM). 
This dynamic is expected to boost margins across the board, a stark reversal from earlier pandemic years. 
Analysts project mid-single-digit (MSD) volume growth for the industry, supported by constrained capacity growth at low-single-digit (LSD) levels​.
Fueling optimism is a favorable jet fuel environment. Prices are forecast to hover in the low $2 per gallon range through 2026, providing airlines with critical cost stability. "
This is the sweet spot of the industry where pricing can drop through to the bottom line while offering an added incentive for capacity to remain rational," Morgan Stanley wrote in the note​.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Investor Sentiment: Opportunities And Risks</h3>
Despite 2024's strong performance, airline valuations remain compelling. Analysts note that stocks like ALK, AAL, and DAL trade below historical earnings multiples, offering attractive upside potential. 
Yet, risks loom, including macroeconomic headwinds and the possibility of a slowdown in consumer spending in the second half of 2025.
Morgan Stanley also flagged the return of institutional investors as a positive catalyst. "The potential return of large, sticky capital bases for the first time in 10 years could set another leg or three in the stocks' run in 2025," Shanker said​.
Now Read: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42444498/bank-of-america-raises-bullish-outlook-on-us-brokers-exchanges-alternative-investments-3-top-picks-for-2025">Bank Of America Raises Bullish Outlook On US Brokers, Exchanges, Alternative Investments: 3 Top Picks For 2025</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Best Airports 2024 &#x7C; Image generated using Dall-E

US Airlines Set To Fly High In 2025, Analyst Says: 'Perfect Storm Of Tailwinds' Will Propel Industry Gains

Bernstein analyst David Vernon maintains Southwest Airlines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) with a Market Perform and raises the price target from $30 to $33.

Bernstein Maintains Market Perform on Southwest Airlines, Raises Price Target to $33

Morgan Stanley analyst Ravi Shanker reinstates Southwest Airlines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) with a Overweight and announces $42 price target.

Initiation

Morgan Stanley Reinstates Overweight on Southwest Airlines, Announces $42 Price Target

Jim Cramer sees potential for continued strength in airline stocks, provided carriers maintain discipline in flight capacity management. His analysis comes on Monday as major carriers have seen <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42365072/why-archer-aviation-stock-is-gaining-today">significant stock appreciation in recent months</a>.
What Happened: Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>), United Airlines Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>), and American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) have all rebounded strongly from their recent lows, benefiting from multiple tailwinds. 
Cramer <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/09/airline-stocks-could-keep-running-if-capacity-control-jim-cramer-says.html">highlighted</a> that the sector&#8217;s recovery is supported by both macroeconomic factors and industry-specific developments on CNBC.
&#8220;The strength can continue for however long the capacity discipline does,&#8221; Cramer stated on his Monday show. &#8220;For now, these companies are all saying the right things.&#8221;
The airline sector is experiencing structural shifts that could mark a departure from traditional boom-bust cycles. Cramer pointed to reduced competition from budget carriers like Spirit Airlines Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAVE#NYSE">SAVE</a>) and Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>), which have scaled back expansion plans. 
Additionally, manufacturing delays at The Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) have created a natural cap on industry capacity.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42404450/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-recover-losses-after-flash-crash-analyst-pinpoints-critical-btc-support-levels">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Recover Losses After Flash Crash: Analyst Pinpoints Critical BTC Support Levels</a>
Why It Matters: A resurgence in business travel post-pandemic and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts have further bolstered the sector&#8217;s outlook. However, Cramer maintained his characteristic caution, noting that airlines historically perform better as trading vehicles rather than long-term investments.
Major aviation exchange-traded funds, including U.S. Global Jets ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JETS#NYSE">JETS</a>), Gabelli Commercial Aerospace and Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GCAD#NYSE">GCAD</a>), and iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>), have risen by over 30% in the past year, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
&#8220;My gut tells me maybe to ring the register before the music stops,&#8221; Cramer advised while acknowledging the possibility of a structural shift in the industry&#8217;s dynamics.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42404312/gary-black-boosts-tesla-price-target-by-27-to-380-citing-25k-hatchbacks-market-potential">Gary Black Boosts Tesla Price Target By 27% To $380 Based On &#8216;Increased Conviction&#8217; That Elon Musk-Led Company Will Launch $25K Hatchback</a></li>
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Courtesy of American Airlines.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Jim Cramer Says Airline Stocks 'Strength Can Continue' Amid Structural Shifts: 'Ring The Register Before The Music Stops'

10 analysts have shared their evaluations of Southwest Airlines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) during the recent three months, expressing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The following table encapsulates their recent ratings, offering a glimpse into the evolving sentiments over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">4</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Providing deeper insights, analysts have established 12-month price targets, indicating an average target of $29.05, along with a high estimate of $35.00 and a low estimate of $24.00. This upward trend is evident, with the current average reflecting a 19.01% increase from the previous average price target of $24.41.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1733515226_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Deciphering Analyst Ratings: An In-Depth Analysis</h2>
A comprehensive examination of how financial experts perceive Southwest Airlines is derived from recent analyst actions. The following is a detailed summary of key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Oglenski</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$32.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thomas Wadewitz</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Sell</td>
<td>$27.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catherine O'Brien</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Sell</td>
<td>$28.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamie Baker</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$26.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brandon Oglenski</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$32.00</td>
<td>$27.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Christopher Stathoulopoulos</td>
<td>Susquehanna</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sheila Kahyaoglu</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$32.00</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Trent</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$31.50</td>
<td>$28.25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sheila Kahyaoglu</td>
<td>Jefferies</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Underperform</td>
<td>$24.00</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Helane Becker</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$19.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts adapt their recommendations to changing market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their response to recent developments related to Southwest Airlines. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Providing a comprehensive analysis, analysts offer qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Southwest Airlines compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Gaining insights, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Southwest Airlines's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
For valuable insights into Southwest Airlines's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LUV/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Southwest Airlines analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>About Southwest Airlines</h2>
Southwest Airlines is the largest domestic air carrier in the United States by passengers boarded. Southwest operates nearly 800 aircraft in an all-Boeing 737 fleet. Despite offering some longer routes and a few perks for business travelers, the airline predominantly specializes in short-haul, leisure flights operated in a single, open-seating cabin configuration in a point-to-point network. In 2025, Southwest will modify its cabins to offer some seats with extra legroom and will update its ticketing process to offer assigned seats.
<h3>Southwest Airlines: A Financial Overview</h3>
Market Capitalization: Positioned above industry average, the company's market capitalization underscores its superiority in size, indicative of a strong market presence.
Revenue Growth: Southwest Airlines's revenue growth over a period of 3 months has been noteworthy. As of 30 September, 2024, the company achieved a revenue growth rate of approximately 5.29%. This indicates a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to its peers, the company achieved a growth rate higher than the average among peers in Industrials sector.
Net Margin: The company's net margin is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in achieving strong profitability. With a net margin of 0.98%, the company may need to address challenges in effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Southwest Airlines's ROE lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maximizing returns on equity capital. With an ROE of 0.64%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial performance.
Return on Assets (ROA): Southwest Airlines's ROA lags behind industry averages, suggesting challenges in maximizing returns from its assets. With an ROA of 0.19%, the company may face hurdles in achieving optimal financial performance.
Debt Management: Southwest Airlines's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average at 0.87, reflecting a lower dependency on debt financing and a more conservative financial approach.
<h2>The Core of Analyst Ratings: What Every Investor Should Know</h2>
Analyst ratings serve as essential indicators of stock performance, provided by experts in banking and financial systems. These specialists diligently analyze company financial statements, participate in conference calls, and engage with insiders to generate quarterly ratings for individual stocks.
Some analysts also offer predictions for helpful metrics such as earnings, revenue, and growth estimates to provide further guidance as to what to do with certain tickers. It is important to keep in mind that while stock and sector analysts are specialists, they are also human and can only forecast their beliefs to traders.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

A Glimpse Into The Expert Outlook On Southwest Airlines Through 10 Analysts

Barclays analyst Brandon Oglenski maintains Southwest Airlines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) with a Equal-Weight and raises the price target from $32 to $35.

Barclays Maintains Equal-Weight on Southwest Airlines, Raises Price Target to $35

On Thursday, Southwest Airlines Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) shares traded higher after the company announced it will launch a $750 million stock buyback <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/92380/000009238024000174/luv-20241205.htm" rel="noreferrer noopener">program</a> in the first quarter of 2025. The move follows the $250 million accelerated share repurchase launched in October 2024.
After this, $1.5 billion will remain under its $2.5 billion repurchase program, authorized in September 2024.
Outlook: The company revised its fourth-quarter guidance, now expecting RASM to increase by 5.5% to 7.0% (vs. 3.5%- 5.5% prior) and economic fuel costs per gallon to be $2.35 to $2.45 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41516441/southwest-airlines-beats-q3-street-expectations-secures-agreement-with-elliott-management-driven-bo" rel="noreferrer noopener">(vs. $2.25 to $2.35 earlier)</a>.
The company expects unit revenues to rise 5.5%-7.0% YoY, with capacity down ~4%. This improvement is driven by robust travel demand and benefits from tactical initiatives, including network optimization, capacity adjustments, enhanced marketing, and advanced revenue management.
Strong holiday bookings and improved revenue trends bolster confidence in its &#8220;Southwest. Even Better.&#8221; plan, set to extend momentum into 2025.
Meanwhile, it still projects ASMs down ~4% and CASM-X up <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">11% to 13% in the quarter</a>.
The company is also advancing its fleet strategy, targeting an initial transaction by early 2025, including aircraft sales and sale-leasebacks, to optimize fleet value.
Southwest continues to plan for approximately 20 Boeing (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) 737-8 aircraft deliveries and now expects 40 aircraft retirements in 2024, comprised of 36 Boeing 737-700s and four Boeing 737-800s.
In October, the company reported&nbsp;a third-quarter 2024&nbsp;operating revenue increase of 5.3% year-over-year to $6.870 billion, beating the consensus of $6.735 billion. Adjusted EPS was $0.11, down from $0.31 last year, beating&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">the consensus $0.00</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via U.S. Global Jets ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JETS#NYSE">JETS</a>) and Themes Airlines ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AIRL#NASDAQ">AIRL</a>).
Price Action: LUV shares are up 2.90% at $35.14 at the last check Thursday.
Read Next:
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Photo by Southwest Airlines

- Goldman Sachs Industrials and Materials Conference
 &nbsp;

Southwest Airlines CEO Says Market For Used Jets Is Very Strong

-Goldman Sachs Industrials and Materials Conference&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Southwest Airlines CEO Says Need Boeing To Hit Their Rates And Deliver For Southwest And For Their Other Customers

European Aeronautic Defence And Space Unsponsored

EADSY

Southwest Airlines CEO Says Boeing, Airbus Issues Constraining The Industry

WIIM

Southwest Airlines shares are trading higher after the company announced it will launch a $750 million stock buyback program in Q1 2025.

Southwest Airlines Outlook: Plans Boeing 737-8 Deliveries, 40 Retirements In 2024

Southwest Airlines Outlook: To Launch Stock $750M Buyback In 1Q25, Actively Pursuing Fleet Strategy, And Expects To Complete An Initial Transaction By Early 2025

Southwest Airlines Outlook: Q4 Unit Revenues +5.5% - +7%, Fuel Costs $2.35-$2.45/Gallon, Expects 797 Aircraft By Q4

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>GEO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$55.0K</td>
<td>6.7K</td>
<td>2.4K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UBER</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$47.1K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>930</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RKLB</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$28.0K</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>330</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LUV</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$36.0K</td>
<td>15.2K</td>
<td>228</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$480.00</td>
<td>$43.0K</td>
<td>44</td>
<td>136</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ZTO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$32.5K</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>60</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UPS</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$110.00</td>
<td>$30.5K</td>
<td>806</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FTAI</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$160.00</td>
<td>$26.7K</td>
<td>432</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding GEO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEO#NYSE">GEO</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 50 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 250 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 40 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $55.0K, with a price of $220.0 per contract. There were 6722 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2424 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For UBER (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 85 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 72 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $47.1K, with a price of $655.0 per contract. There were 1108 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 930 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding RKLB (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RKLB#NASDAQ">RKLB</a>), we observe a put option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 204 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 20 contract(s) at a $35.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $28.0K, with a price of $1400.0 per contract. There were 27 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 330 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LUV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 50 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 120 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.0K, with a price of $300.0 per contract. There were 15200 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 228 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding DE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 50 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 20 contract(s) at a $480.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 12 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $43.0K, with a price of $2205.0 per contract. There were 44 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 136 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ZTO (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZTO#NYSE">ZTO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be neutral, expiring in 386 day(s) on December 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 60 contract(s) at a $15.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 13 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.5K, with a price of $548.0 per contract. There were 1 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 60 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UPS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPS#NYSE">UPS</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 414 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 10 contract(s) at a $110.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $30.5K, with a price of $3050.0 per contract. There were 806 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 24 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding FTAI (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTAI#NASDAQ">FTAI</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 85 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 15 contract(s) at a $160.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.7K, with a price of $1780.0 per contract. There were 432 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 19 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

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RKLB

UBER

8 Industrials Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

General

United Airlines Says FAA Air Traffic Controller Staffing Shortages Causing Significant Disruption For Travelers

UBS analyst Thomas Wadewitz assumes Southwest Airlines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) with a Sell rating and announces Price Target of $27.

UBS Assumes Southwest Airlines at Sell, Announces Price Target of $27

- Reuters Citing Spokesperson&nbsp;

NTSB Opening Investigation Into 2023 Southwest Boeing 737 Max Engine Incident

Delta Air Lines Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NASDAQ">DAL</a>) CEO Ed Bastian has suggested that President-elect Donald Trump&#8216;s administration could provide a &#8220;breath of fresh air&#8221; for the airline industry, criticizing what he perceives as government &#8220;overreach&#8221; during President Joe Biden&#8216;s era.
What Happened: Speaking ahead of the company&#8217;s investor day, Bastian signaled potential regulatory changes that could significantly impact the aviation sector, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/delta-airlines-trump-biden-regulation-c4393d5f763d95c8286d4069563032dc#">reported</a> the Associated Press on Thursday.
The airline executive&#8217;s comments reflect a broader sentiment among industry leaders who anticipate a more business-friendly regulatory environment. 
Southwest Airlines Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) CEO Robert Jordan similarly expressed hope for a Department of Transportation that might be &#8220;less aggressive&#8221; in rule-making, highlighting growing frustration with current consumer protection regulations.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42102366/bitcoin-taps-95k-ethereum-dogecoin-flat-as-trumps-crypto-policy-takes-shape-top-analyst-describes-btcs-path-to-135k">Bitcoin Hits $95K For The First Time Ever, Ethereum, Dogecoin Flat As Trump&#8217;s Crypto Policy Takes Shape</a>
Delta&#8217;s financial performance provides context for these expectations. The airline reported a robust $2.6 billion profit in the first nine months of 2024, with projected fourth-quarter adjusted profit between $1.60 and $1.85 per share. The company expects 2025 revenue growth in mid-single digits, positioning itself strongly amid potential regulatory shifts.
Why It Matters: Wall Street appears cautiously optimistic about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/24/11/42014787/delta-united-alaska-air-are-top-analyst-picks-in-airline-sector">the airline sector&#8217;s future</a>. Goldman Sachs has resumed coverage of major airlines, providing Delta with a &#8220;Buy&#8221; rating and an $83 price target. Analysts expect continued supply constraints through 2025, with a focus on airlines&#8217; ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
The potential appointment of Sean Duffy as Transportation Secretary could herald broader changes across the transportation sector. Industry <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42076876/what-could-trumps-new-dot-pick-mean-for-evs-airlines-railroads">observers speculate about the potential streamlining of regulations</a>, enhanced infrastructure focus, and possible modifications to electric vehicle and autonomous driving policies.
Price Action: Delta Air Lines closed at $63.64 on Wednesday, down 1.71% for the day. In pre-market trading, the stock was down 0.5% at the time of writing. Year to date, the stock has surged by 57.33%, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
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Image Via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Global

Delta Chief Says Trump Could Be A 'Breath Of Fresh Air' For Aviation Industry

Goldman Sachs <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/24/11/42004767/breaking-down-united-airlines-holdings-11-analysts-share-their-views">has resumed coverage</a> of nine airlines and gave a broad overview of the year ahead for the airline sector. Here's a look at the winners and losers in the industry.
The Details: Goldman Sachs analyst Catherine O'Brien said the firm expects supply constraints to continue for the airlines into 2025. She sees mixed stock performance ahead, with the airlines exposed to premium and corporate demand outperforming the sector. 
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/41993328/trump-media-insiders-sell-more-than-16-million-in-djt-stock">Trump Media Insiders Sell More Than $16 Million In DJT Stock</a>
ALK: The firm resumed coverage of Alaska Air Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALK#NYSE">ALK</a>) with a Buy rating and a $70 price target on the stock. The analyst pointed to the airline's exposure to the West Coast corporate travel demand, which has begun to recover significantly. 
She also noted Alaska Air's improving interisland profitability and sees upside ahead related to synergies from the acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines.&nbsp;
DAL: Goldman Sachs resumed coverage of Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>) as a Buy with an $83 price target, representing 28% upside to the stock's current levels. The firm said its Buy rating is underpinned by Delta's growth in loyalty revenue, which is driven partly by its long-term credit card agreement with American Express. 
O&#8217;Brien also highlighted the airline's exposure to passenger demand for premium services and its competitors exiting key cities where Delta continues to operate.&nbsp;
UAL: O&#8217;Brien forecasted United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NYSE">UAL</a>) to end 2024 with margins at nearly pre-pandemic levels and noted this as the highest rate of recovery among the firm's airline coverage. The Goldman Sachs analyst also highlighted United as among the best positioned to serve the increasing premium and corporate consumer demand.&nbsp;
Goldman Sachs resumed coverage on United Airlines with a Buy rating and a $119 price target, representing 31% upside to the stock's current level.&nbsp;
JBLU: The firm resumed coverage on shares of JetBlue Airways Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBLU#NASDAQ">JBLU</a>) with a Sell rating and a $5.50 price target. O'Brien pointed to capacity restraints resulting from aircraft grounded for required maintenance and air traffic control staffing shortages in New York City, where the airline has a large hub. The analyst said that both issues are out of management's control and expects both to continue through the short term.&nbsp;
LUV: The Goldman Sachs analyst resumed coverage on Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) shares with a Sell rating and announced a $28 price target. O'Brien said Southwest's product <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/24/11/42004766/beyond-the-numbers-9-analysts-discuss-southwest-airlines-stock">and network</a> are not aligned with the increasing demand for premium air services, putting it at a disadvantage in the current market.&nbsp;
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Image: VanderWolf from Shutterstock

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ALGT

ALMS

AMTM

AMZN

AVGO

AXON

CRVL

CVLG

DUOL

DXST

GALT

GKOS

GLATF

GOEV

ILMN

KELYA

LMNR

MESA

MMSI

MPWR

MRNA

MSTR

NDSN

NMRA

NUKK

NVDA

PAYX

PLAY

PLTR

PONY

QDEL

QMCO

QRVO

QUBT

RDDT

RYTM

SAVA

SAVEQ

SBUX

SKYW

SLNO

SMCI

SNCY

TMHC

ULCC

WBTN

WDAY

ZETA

Dividends

Press Releases

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES DECLARES 183rd QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

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EQUITY ALERT: Rosen Law Firm Announces Investigation of Breaches of Fiduciary Duties by the Directors and Officers of Southwest Airlines Co. – LUV

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SOUTHWEST AIRLINES ALERT: Bragar Eagel & Squire, P.C. is Investigating Southwest Airlines Co. on Behalf of Long-Term Stockholders and Encourages Investors to Contact the Firm

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SOUTHWEST AIRLINES NAMES PROVEN LEADER AILEEN FURLONG AS VICE PRESIDENT SALES

Southwest Airlines Co. Announcement: Southwest Airlines Co. Investors Are Encouraged to Contact The Rosen Law Firm About Ongoing Investigation of Breaches of Fiduciary Duties by the Directors and Officers – LUV

Rosen Law Firm Announces Investigation of Breaches of Fiduciary Duties by the Directors and Officers of Southwest Airlines Co. - LUV

Rosen Law Firm Announces Investigation of Breaches of Fiduciary Duties by the Directors and Officers of Southwest Airlines Co. – LUV

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Blade Air Mobility

Copa Holdings

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Jet AI

LATAM Airlines Group S.A. American Depositary Shares (each representing two thousand (2,000) shares of Common Stock)

LATAM Airlines Group

Mesa Air Gr

Ryanair Holdings plc - American Depositary Shares, each representing five Ordinary Shares

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Controladora Vuela Compania de Aviacion, S.A.B. de C.V. American Depositary Shares, each representing ten (10) Ordinary Participation Certificates

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