Delta to focus on markets with strong demand, anticipates 1Q2016 operating margin of 18% to 20%

Delta Air Lines incoming CEO Ed Bastian stated (08-Mar-2016) the carrier had an "outstanding 2015", with a strong year forecast in 2016 due to fuel price tailwind, modest capacity growth and help from revenue and cost initiatives. Mr Bastian said the carrier is benefiting from a restructuring of its business model, positioning it to "consistently produce profit and cash flow amid the ups and downs of the economic cycle." Delta anticipates an operating margin of 18% to 20% in 1Q2016, while capacity is expected to grow from 0% to 2%. Mr Bastian said growth is focused on markets with strong demand, including the US, the UK, Mexico and the Caribbean, offsetting reductions in weaker markets like Brazil, Japan and the Middle East. [more - original PR]