Avelo Airlines celebrated today the opening of its 6th aircraft base at the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) – doubling its route network from the Bay Area’s best airport.
Avelo will also inaugurate service to four new destinations from STS: Portland/Salem, Oregon (via SLE); Boise, Idaho (via BOI); Tri-Cities/Pasco, Washington (via PSC); and Kalispell, Montana (via FCA). Avelo currently flies from STS to Los Angeles, California (via BUR); Las Vegas, Nevada (via LAS); Palm Springs, California (via PSP); and Bend/Redmond, Oregon (via RDM).
Avelo will now serve eight nonstop destinations from STS – offering more nonstop routes than any other airline operating at STS.
Three main carriers at STS (Airport)
Avelo Crewmembers and STS airport representatives inaugurated the new flights at a gate-side celebration for Wednesday morning’s first flight to Kalispell. Customers were welcomed aboard with local favorites from the four new destinations, as well as a commemorative boarding pass.
With the new base opening, Avelo has hired 32 STS-based Crewmembers, which is how the airline refers to its employees. New Crewmembers include flight attendants, pilots, and maintenance technicians. Avelo expects to employ approximately 50 STS-based Crewmembers by the end of this year.
Avelo is the only airline flying nonstop between STS and these four destinations:
Kalispell, Montana via Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)– The first flight departs today, May 1, 2024, with twice-weekly service on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Pasco/Tri-Cities, Washington via Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) – The first flight departs today, May 1, 2024, with twice-weekly service on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Boise, Idaho via Boise Airport (BOI) – The first flight departs Thursday, May 2, 2024, and will operate twice-weekly on Thursdays and Sundays.
Portland/Salem, Oregon via Salem Municipal Airport (SLE) – The first flight departs Friday, May 3, 2024, and will operate twice-weekly on Mondays and Fridays.
West Coast route map:
Avelo Airlines aircraft photo gallery:
Screenshot
Great Airlines Series of books by Brian Worthington (Volumes 1-6 now available on Amazon) – new volumes announced:
Avianca Group International Limited affiliated passenger airlines (“AGIL”, “the Group” or “the Company”) reported its first quarter 2024 results. Avianca’s capacity increased by 26.1% year-over-year, with a robust load factor of 81.4%, 1.2 percentage points higher than first quarter 2023, and a 37.5% increase in transported passengers, reaching 9.3 million.
The Company posted $272 million in EBITDAR at a 21.5% margin during first quarter 2024, 16.3% ahead of the same period in 2023. For the period, Net Income was $13 million.
“We remain committed to transporting our customers to more destinations in an affordable way,” said Frederico Pedreira, Avianca’s Chief Executive Officer. “In the first quarter, we introduced a new, more simplified and flexible fare scheme that allows our customers to fly according to their needs, and we continued to expand our network and improve our connectivity with the launch of new routes, including the reopening of Bogota-Paris, after 20 years, as well as Bogota-Montreal. We achieved this while delivering solid operating results, demonstrating our commitment to transporting our clients safely, on time and with their baggage. For all the achievements, I would like to thank our team for their commitment and the outstanding work they continue to do”.
Photo: Avianca – EmiroMejia@2009
First Quarter 2024 Highlights
Consolidated capacity, measured in Available Seat Kilometers (ASK), reached 15,135 million in the first quarter of 2024; a 26.1% increase relative to first quarter 2023. The Group transported 9.3 million passengers during the period, representing a 37.5% increase over the same period in 2023.
Total operating revenues in the first quarter of 2024 reached $1,265 million; a 16.4% increase over the same period in 2023, while total operating expenses were $1,131 million, a 15.2% increase over the same period in 2023, in spite of a 26.1% capacity increase.
EBITDAR was $272 million in the first quarter of 2024, at a 21.5% margin, while Net Income for the period was $13 million.
Our cash balance was $971 million at March 31, 2024.
Passenger revenues were $1,013 million for the first quarter of 2024, reflecting a 22.2% increase relative to first quarter 2023. This increase is a result of the Company’s continued efforts to make flying more accessible to a broader range of passengers.
Cargo, Loyalty and other revenues for the first quarter of 2024 were $252 million. Quarterly LifeMiles Cash EBITDA increased 15.3% relative to first quarter 2023, reaching $36 million. Cargo revenues during the period were $152 million, an 8.3% decrease relative to first quarter 2023 due to continued market softening and industry freighter capacity remaining above prepandemic levels. However, Cargo revenues were ahead of Business Plan.
Net Debt to last-twelve-month EBITDAR was 3.2x.
Passenger Costs per Available Seat Kilometer excluding fuel (PAX CASK ex-fuel) in the first quarter of 2024 was $4.1 cents.
We ended the first quarter of 2024 with an operating passenger fleet comprised of 141 aircraft: 128 Airbus 320 family aircraft, and 13 Boeing 787s.
Avianca reintroduced Business Class service on the Narrowbody operation from Bogota to 11 destinations in the Americas: Chile, São Paulo, Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Río de Janeiro, Miami, Washington, New York, Boston, Toronto, and Mexico City. The service will be available starting July 1st.
Avianca resumed the Bogota-Caracas route, and announced 5 new routes from Medellin to Buenos Aires, Santiago, and Lima; and from Bogota to Montreal, and Paris. In the first quarter of 2024, our network consisted of 150 routes connecting 76 destinations.
Avianca’s first reconfigured B787 started operations the third week of April, with number of seats increased from 250 to 291. offering 16.4% additional cabin capacity. We are on track to complete the reconfiguration of our remaining 12 widebody aircraft this year.
Avianca Cargo continued to lead the flower market from Colombia to the US during Valentine’s season, transporting ∼18,000 tons of flowers in over 300 cargo flights from Colombia and Ecuador, while further strengthening its competitive position within the region.
Also, Avianca Cargo won the ESG Award during the Aviation Achievement Awards 2024, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
LifeMiles announced new policies that make it easier for customers to qualify for Elite status.
Group revenue increases by 5 percent to 7.4 billion euros in the first quarter
Number of passengers rises to 24 million in the first quarter
Adjusted EBIT in the first quarter at -849 million euros
Strikes impact earnings by around 350 million euros in the first quarter
Unit costs excluding strike impact below previous year
Summer with record number of holiday destinations and 16 percent more bookings than last year
Adjusted EBIT of around 2.2 billion euros expected for the full year of 2024
Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of Deutsche Lufthansa AG:
“We are now leaving the first quarter behind us, which was mainly impacted by strikes, and are at a turning point. We have reached long-term wage agreements for the majority of our employees. This means planning certainty and clarity for the coming years. We are still seeing strong demand, which is even significantly higher than last year for the summer. We are therefore continuing to expand our offering and are growing on long-haul routes in particular. Our planes remain well filled throughout. One thing is already clear: it will be another very strong summer. I am particularly pleased that we are continuing to see a positive trend not only among leisure but also business travelers. We are now devoting all our energy to further expanding our premium customer offers and ensuring punctual and reliable flight operations.”
Results for the first quarter of 2024
The Group increased its revenue by five percent year-on-year to 7.4 billion euros in the first quarter of 2024 (previous year: 7.0 billion euros). The Lufthansa Group recorded an operating loss (Adjusted EBIT) of 849 million euros (previous year: -273 million euros). Strikes, both by various employee groups within the Group and by employees of our system partners, had a negative impact of around 350 million euros on earnings. In addition, Lufthansa Cargo’s result declined now that the logistics industry has returned to normal after the pandemic-related exceptional economic situation. The Adjusted EBIT margin fell to -11.5 percent (previous year: -3.9 percent). The Group result fell to -734 million euros (previous year: -467 million euros).
Passenger numbers and traffic development
Demand for air travel continued to rise in the first quarter of the current year. A total of 24 million passengers flew with the airlines of the Lufthansa Group, an increase of 12 percent compared to the previous year (Q1 2023: 22 million). The Group airlines expanded their seat capacity by 12 percent year-on-year despite the strike-related flight cancellations. Compared to the pre-Crisis year 2019, this was 84 percent, around 5 percentage points lower than originally planned. Despite the significant increase in capacity, the load factor remained consistently high due to high demand. The passenger load factor amounted to 79.7 percent and was thus at the previous year’s level.
Strikes have a significant negative impact on Passenger Airlines’ earnings
The Lufthansa Group Passenger Airlines’ revenue rose by seven percent to 5.6 billion euros in the first quarter (previous year: 5.2 billion euros). They recorded an Adjusted EBIT of -918 million euros (previous year: -512 million euros). Strikes had an impact of around 300 million euros on earnings in this segment.
Yields fell by 2.5 percent compared to the previous year, partly due to the strike-related uncertainty on the customer side and the corresponding lack of high-priced last-minute bookings. Unit revenues (RASK) were 6.3 percent down on the previous year, also influenced by lower cargo revenues and significantly higher compensation payments to passengers due to the strike.
Unit costs (CASK) rose by 2.9 percent compared to the same quarter of the previous year due to the strike. Adjusted for the strike effects, however, they were 1.8 percent below the previous year despite higher expenses for fees, MRO and personnel.
Due to the high losses in the core brand Lufthansa in the first quarter (Adjusted EBIT -640 million euros), Lufthansa Airlines has initiated measures to strengthen the result this year in the short term. Among other steps, it is planned to reduce operating costs, stop new projects and assess the need for additional staff in administrative areas.
Lufthansa Technik benefits from more air traffic
Demand for maintenance, repair and overhaul services as well as other Lufthansa Technik products increased in the first quarter of 2024 due to the positive trend in air travel. Revenue increased accordingly by 15 percent year-on-year to 1.8 billion euros (previous year: 1.5 billion euros). Adjusted EBIT fell by 14 percent to 116 million euros (previous year: 135 million euros), impacted by strike-related work stoppages. Excluding this effect, which had a negative impact on earnings of around 25 million euros, earnings were up on the previous year.
In the logistics business, capacity rose by seven percent due to the expansion of air traffic and revenue tonne-kilometres also increased by ten percent. Yields were around 25 percent lower than in the same quarter of the previous year, in which the result was significantly boosted by high demand due to supply chain disruptions and the shortage of capacity as a result of the pandemic. Lufthansa Cargo thus achieved an Adjusted EBIT of -22 million euros (previous year: 151 million euros). Excluding the strike effects of 25 million euros, the quarterly result was slightly positive.
Positive Adjusted free cash flow further reduces net debt
Due to the continued high level of incoming bookings, operating cash flow amounted to around 1.3 billion euros despite the negative operating result. At 940 million euros, net investments were around ten percent below the previous year, meaning that Adjusted free cash flow amounted to 305 million euros (previous year: 482 million euros).
The Group further strengthened its balance sheet in the first quarter of 2024. Net debt decreased to 5.5 billion euros compared to the end of 2023 (December 31, 2023: 5.7 billion euros) due to the positive free cash flow. Net pension obligations fell to 2.4 billion euros due to a higher discount rate (December 31, 2023: 2.7 billion euros). At the end of March 2023, the company had liquidity totaling 10.8 billion euros (December 31, 2023: 10.5 billion euros) at its disposal. Following an upgrade by Moody’s in the first quarter, the Lufthansa Group is now the only European network airline to be consistently rated investment grade again by all four agencies in the market.
Remco Steenbergen, Chief Financial Officer of Deutsche Lufthansa AG:
“We cannot be satisfied with the operating result for the first quarter; at more than 350 million euros, the various strikes had a significant impact on our result. Nevertheless, cash flow was positive due to the continuing high demand for air travel. We were also able to further strengthen our balance sheet. In the coming months, we will work intensively to compensate for the effects of rising costs. We have taken additional measures to this end, particularly at Lufthansa Airlines, which is significantly affected by rising personnel expenses and fees. I therefore remain convinced that we will be able to achieve stable unit cost development for the year as a whole without taking the strikes in the first quarter into account.”
Bookings for summer 16 percent up on previous year
Global demand for air travel remains strong, particularly from private travelers. The company expects another very good summer of travel. Never before have so many holiday destinations been served by Lufthansa Group airlines as this year. The most popular summer destinations in 2024 are once again Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece and, for long-haul travel, the USA, Japan and Southern Africa. This year, many holidaymakers will once again be able to afford a ticket in one of the premium classes. In addition to the very good demand in the private travel segment, the trend in the business travel segment is also positive. This applies in particular to long-haul flights. The Lufthansa Group is continuously expanding its offering here. In addition to the traditionally strong North American routes, demand from business travelers on the India and Japan routes in particular is growing this year.
Overall, bookings for the summer timetable (April to October) are 16 percent up on the previous year.
Guests can now also enjoy Lufthansa Allegris, the new travel experience on long-haul routes. Allegris will start regular scheduled service on May 1. The first Airbus A350-900 equipped with Allegris will fly from Munich to Vancouver on the Canadian West Coast. The second destination is Toronto, which will be served alternately with Vancouver on selected flights in the first few months. With further A350s delivered, the Allegris cabin will also be used on flights to Chicago and Montreal in the summer.
Financial outlook
The Lufthansa Group plans to increase available capacity in the second quarter to around 92 percent of the pre-crisis level. The increase will therefore be lower than originally planned due to further investments in operational stability and delayed aircraft deliveries. The company expects a year-on-year decline in unit revenues (RASK) in the low single-digit percentage range, partly because customers were reluctant to make short-term bookings for April and, to a lesser extent, May during the wage disputes that have now been resolved. Unit costs (CASK) are expected to increase in the low single-digit percentage range in the second quarter. Adjusted EBIT in the second quarter will therefore still be below that of the previous year. In line with the lower capacity in the first two quarters, the Lufthansa Group now expects to achieve a capacity level of around 92 percent of the pre-crisis figure for 2019 (previously: 94 percent) for the full year 2024.
In the third quarter, capacity is to be increased further to over 95 percent of the pre-crisis level. Based on incoming bookings, the Group airlines expect unit revenues (RASK) in the third quarter to be higher than in the previous year.
In the second half of the year, the Group’s operating result is expected to be higher than in the previous year. As already communicated on April 15, Adjusted EBIT for the full year is now expected to be around 2.2 billion euros (previously: stable earnings development compared to 2.7 billion euros in the previous year). For the Passenger Airlines, a decline in unit revenues (RASK) in the low single-digit percentage range and an increase in unit costs (CASK), also in the low single-digit percentage range, are expected for the full year. Excluding the effects of the strikes in the first quarter, unit costs (CASK) are expected to remain stable. Adjusted free cash flow is expected to be at least 1 billion euros (previously: at least 1.5 billion euros).
Further information
Further information on the results of individual business units will be published in the report on the first quarter of 2024. This will be published at the same time as this press release on April 30, 2024 at 07:00 CEST at www.lufthansagroup.com/investor-relations.
WestJet on April 29 celebrated the takeoff of connectivity between Atlanta and Edmonton, following the departure of flight WS1902 at 00:45 MDT. The launch of the airline’s exclusive service marked a critical milestone in growing Edmonton’s direct transborder travel options to one of the world’s largest global hubs.
Route
Frequency
Start Date
Departure
Arrival
Edmonton-Atlanta
Daily
April 29
12:45 a.m.
7:06 a.m.
Atlanta-Edmonton
Daily
April 29
9:05 a.m.
11:50 a.m.
blue sky and white clouds
More seamless options for trade and tourism with access to Atlanta, Delta’s largest hub
The United States represents Alberta’s most important bilateral trade partner and the largest inbound tourism market for the province. Through WestJet’s longstanding partnership with Delta Air Lines, guests connecting through Atlanta will gain access to a vast network of U.S. destinations on a single purchased ticket with check-in for all flights at the first departure, baggage tagged to their final destination and lounge access for select guests. Additionally, frequent flyers of both airlines will continue to enjoy extensive reciprocal benefits any time they fly with either carrier, including earning and redeeming in their preferred program.
Finnair will suspend its daily flights to Tartu, Estonia, from April 29 to May 31, so that an alternative approach solution that doesn’t require a GPS signal can be put in place at Tartu Airport.
The approach methods currently used at Tartu Airport are based on a GPS signal. GPS interference, which is quite common in the area, affects the usability of this approach method and can therefore prevent the aircraft from approaching and landing. Last week, two Finnair flights had to divert back to Helsinki after GPS interference prevented the approach to Tartu.
Finnair suspends its flights to Tartu for one month, during which time the aim is to build approach methods at Tartu Airport that enable a safe and smooth operation of flights without a GPS signal.
Customers who have booked flights between Helsinki and Tartu on 29.4.-31.5. will receive a cancellation message from Finnair and will be given more information of their options by text message and/or email.
Finnair is the only airline operating international flights to Tartu.
Today marks an exciting milestone as SkyTeam and SAS have officially signed an Alliance Adherence Agreement (AAA), serving as an important step toward SAS’ official entry into the global airline alliance. SkyTeam and SAS are committed to ensuring a seamless transition for all customers.
From September 1, 2024, SAS will officially become a part of SkyTeam, enriching the alliance with the best access to Scandinavian key hubs. This collaboration will bolster SkyTeam’s global network, offering new destinations, enhanced connectivity, and a more seamless, elevated customer journey for all travellers.
From the moment SAS joins SkyTeam, EuroBonus members will enjoy benefits across most SkyTeam airlines. EuroBonus Silver members will be recognized as SkyTeam Elite level, while Gold and Diamond members will be recognized as Elite Plus. This will offer them access to a network of 750+ airport lounges and SkyPriority services at eight airport touchpoints including priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.
SAS customers will benefit from easy connectivity across SkyTeam’s network of 1,060+ destinations, which includes their favourites as well as previously unserved cities – particularly across Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. SkyTeam and SAS share the vision of providing a valued customer experience through quality products, innovation, and dedicated service.
SkyTeam members serving SAS’ hubs include Air France, KLM, Delta Air Lines and Middle East Airlines (MEA).
consideration for Capital A’s disposal and correspondingly, AirAsia Group’s acquisition amounting to RM6.8 billion, to be fulfilled with shares and debt settlement
Capital A’s shareholders’ equity to turn positive for the first time in 14 quarters following the divestment, while AirAsia X’s shareholders’ equity to also strengthen post-transaction
AirAsia Group to fortify its position as the largest low cost carrier in Asia, with a win-win “One Airline” strategy set to transform the face of global low cost travel
AirAsia Group’s ultimate vision to create a global network airline based on the robust narrowbody fleet with enhanced operational efficiency and extended range capabilities to lower cost
Capital A Berhad (“Capital A”) and AirAsia Group Sdn Bhd (“AirAsia Group”), the newly incorporated entity that will eventually be the holding company of AirAsia X Berhad (“AirAsia X”), announced it has signed a conditional sale and purchase agreement for Capital A’s strategic divestment and AirAsia Group’s strategic acquisition of its aviation businesses (the “Transaction”). This landmark agreement, approved by the boards of Capital A and AirAsia X, is expected to catalyse AirAsia to its next growth phase to become the world’s first low-cost network carrier and redefine the aviation industry landscape.
Under the terms of the agreement and subject to requisite approvals, the Transaction includes two parts:
The divestment of AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL), consisting of AirAsia subsidiaries in Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Cambodia, will be fulfilled through the issuance of new AirAsia Group shares to Capital A worth RM3 billion. Following this divestment, Capital A will immediately distribute-in-specie RM2.2 billion worth of the newly issued AirAsia Group shares to Capital A shareholders. Upon the completion of the proposed divestment and AirAsia X proposal, Capital A is expected to retain 18.39% of the enlarged issued shares of AirAsia Group.
The divestment of AirAsia Berhad, otherwise known as AirAsia Malaysia, for RM3.8 billion, to be satisfied by AirAsia Group’s assumption of RM3.8 billion of debt owed by Capital A to AirAsia Berhad.
Shareholders from both sides stand to gain as the value of the aviation assets is realised. Prior to the Transaction, AirAsia X’s shares and listing status will be transferred to AirAsia Group, effectively materialising the corporate structure of an enlarged aviation group, with AirAsia X’s shareholders then holding shares in AirAsia Group. The issuance of free warrants acts as a token of appreciation for shareholders’ continued support, while also providing them with the option to enhance their equity participation and contribute to the future growth trajectory of the enlarged aviation business. In recognition of the Transaction’s magnitude, a private placement is also proposed to fortify AirAsia Group’s financial standing, increase its shareholder base and improve the trading liquidity of its shares. From the perspective of AirAsia X shareholders, the allure lies in gaining access to an unlocked value of RM6.8 billion through a RM3 billion new shares issuance. This investment grants them ownership in a mature and ongoing airline business operation, comprising four established airlines that collectively form Asean’s most extensive short-haul network, consolidating AirAsia Group’s position as the largest low-cost carrier in Asean.
Capital A shareholders stand to benefit significantly as the proposed divestment is expected to unlock RM6.8 billion in value of Capital A’s aviation business, more than double the current market capitalisation of the group. Following the divestment and the distribution-in-specie of RM2.2 billion worth of new AirAsia Group shares, Capital A shareholders will maintain direct ownership in the combined aviation businesses, ensuring access to future growth opportunities. Moreover, post-divestment, Capital A will retain four high-growth, aviation-focused core businesses, including Capital A Aviation Services, Teleport, MOVE Digital, and Capital A International, all poised for continued growth and diversification.
IndiGo, India’s most preferred airline, is further defining its long-term future by strengthening its fleet with the introduction of wide-body aircraft to its fleet. Since inception in 2006, IndiGo has been successfully building its position and is now defining its future further on the path of becoming a global aviation player.
IndiGo agreed to place an order for 30 firm A350-900 aircraft, which will enable IndiGo to spread its wings further and expand its network. From the various Indian metros, IndiGo will be able to connect to the world.
The aircraft will be powered by Rolls Royce’s Trent XWB engine. The mission capability of this aircraft coupled with the efficiency of the Trent XWB engine will offer IndiGo unprecedented optionality as it embarks on the next stage of its wonderful journey of addressing the rapidly evolving needs of the Indian customer and our nation.
Currently, IndiGo operates over 350 aircraft. Last year, in June 2023, IndiGo placed the largest ever single aircraft order by any airline for 500 aircraft with Airbus. With that, the outstanding orderbook of A320 Family aircraft stands at almost 1,000 aircraft which are yet to be delivered well into the next decade.
This IndiGo order-book comprises a mix of A320NEO, A321NEO and A321XLR aircraft.
The exact configuration of the aircraft will be decided at a later stage, and the deliveries are expected to start from 2027.
In addition to the 30 firm A350-900 order, IndiGo has Purchase Rights for an additional 70 Airbus A350 Family aircraft, at its discretion, for possible future needs under certain conditions.
In calendar year 2023, IndiGo welcomed 100 million customers onboard its flights and as such, the airline is, quite literally, giving wings to our nation. IndiGo is amongst the fastest growing airlines in the world, and this order will allow it to strengthen its growth trajectory.
Before the end of this decade, the Indian economy is expected to grow from being the world’s 5th largest today to being the 3rd largest. Specifically in aviation, the Indian government has stated its mission to ensure that by 2030 India comes into her own on the world stage of aviation leadership by building cutting-edge infrastructure and developing the country into a global aviation hub.
Southwest Airlines Company today reported its first quarter 2024 financial results:
Net loss of $231 million, or $0.39 loss per diluted share
Net loss, excluding special items1, of $218 million, or $0.36 loss per diluted share
Record first quarter operating revenues of $6.3 billion
Liquidity2 of $11.5 billion, well in excess of debt outstanding of $8.0 billion
Bob Jordan, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “While it is disappointing to incur a first quarter loss, we exited the quarter with healthy profits and margins in the month of March. We are focused on controlling what we can control and have already taken swift action to address our financial underperformance and adjust for revised aircraft delivery expectations. I want to thank our more than 74,000 Employees for their continued Warrior Spirit to maintain a reliable and resilient operation as we adapt to aircraft delivery constraints and adjust to slower than planned growth for this year and next.
“Our first quarter 2024 revenue performance, while shy of our prior aspirations, resulted in record first quarter operating revenues, record first quarter passengers carried, and a solid sequential improvement in nominal unit revenue when compared with seasonal norms. The sequential improvement was driven by an acceleration in managed business revenues as well as benefits from network adjustments, which started in earnest with the March schedule. While costs remain a headwind, we are realizing benefits from our ongoing cost reduction actions and remain focused on enhancing productivity and controlling discretionary spending. We also have certainty with labor rates, having ratified agreements with 11 of our labor groups in the past 18 months, including the agreement ratified yesterday for our Flight Attendants.
“Achieving our financial goals is an immediate imperative. The recent news from Boeing regarding further aircraft delivery delays presents significant challenges for both 2024 and 2025. We are reacting and replanning quickly to mitigate the operational and financial impacts while maintaining dependable and reliable flight schedules for our Customers.
“To improve our financial performance, we have intensified our network optimization efforts to address underperforming markets. Consequently, we have made the difficult decision to close our operations at Bellingham International Airport, Cozumel International Airport, Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, and Syracuse Hancock International Airport. I want to sincerely thank our Employees, the airports, and the communities for all their incredible support over the years.
“Additionally, we are evaluating options to enhance our Customer Experience as we study product preferences and expectations, including onboard seating and our cabin. And, we are implementing cost control initiatives, including limiting hiring and offering voluntary time off programs. We now expect to end 2024 with approximately 2,000 fewer Employees as compared with the end of 2023.
“We are focused on achieving our financial prosperity goals and creating value for our Shareholders, while we adjust to changes in our aircraft delivery plans, Customer travel patterns and preferences, higher fuel prices, and other cost pressures. We are excited and optimistic with a robust set of strategic initiatives that are well underway. They are comprehensive and aimed at enhancing the Customer Experience; delivering operational excellence; creating new and meaningful revenue opportunities; expanding margins; and achieving return on invested capital well above of our weighted average cost of capital. We look forward to sharing these plans at our Investor Day in September.”
(a) Operating revenue per available seat mile (“RASM” or “unit revenues”).
(b) Available seat miles (“ASMs” or “capacity”). The Company’s flight schedule is published for sale through March 5, 2025. The Company expects third quarter 2024 capacity to increase in the low-single digits and fourth quarter 2024 capacity to decrease in the low- to mid-single digits, resulting in capacity growth in the range of flat to down low-single digits in second half 2024, all on a year-over-year percentage basis.
(c) Operating expenses per available seat mile, excluding fuel and oil expense, special items, and profitsharing (“CASM-X”).
(d) Aircraft on property, end of period. The Company now plans for approximately 20 Boeing 737-8 (“-8”) aircraft deliveries and 35 aircraft retirements in 2024, comprised of 31 Boeing 737-700s (“-700”) and four Boeing 737-800s (“-800”). This is compared with its previous plan for approximately 46 -8 deliveries and 49 aircraft retirements. The delivery schedule for the Boeing 737-7 (“-7”) is dependent on the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) issuing required certifications and approvals to The Boeing Company (“Boeing”) and the Company. The FAA will ultimately determine the timing of the -7 certification and entry into service, and Boeing may continue to experience manufacturing challenges, so the Company offers no assurances that current estimations and timelines will be met.
Revenue Results and Outlook:
First quarter 2024 operating revenues were a first quarter record $6.3 billion, a 10.9 percent increase, year-over-year
First quarter 2024 RASM was flat, year-over-year—at the low end of the Company’s previous guidance range
The Company had record first quarter revenue performance driven by strong demand trends and record first quarter passenger and ancillary revenue, passengers carried, and new Rapid Rewards® Members. The Company’s first quarter 2024 RASM came in at the low end of its expectations primarily due to lower-than-expected close-in leisure passenger volume, including lower-than-expected maturation of development markets. Still, nominal sequential RASM in first quarter 2024 was ahead of normal seasonal trends. First quarter 2024 managed business revenues strengthened sequentially, as expected, finishing roughly flat when compared with first quarter 2019 levels, and up approximately 25 percent, year-over-year. Network optimization adjustments, implemented with the March schedule, were accretive and supported the profitability inflection point and strong margins for the month of March 2024.
Based on current booking trends, the Company continues to expect an all-time quarterly record for operating revenue in second quarter 2024. Second quarter 2024 RASM is expected to decrease in the range of 1.5 percent to 3.5 percent, on capacity growth of 8 percent to 9 percent, both year-over-year. The comparison includes just over one point of year-over-year headwind from the combined impact of Easter and 4th of July timing. Once again, the Company currently expects nominal second quarter 2024 sequential RASM trends to exceed normal seasonal trends. This anticipated sequential improvement includes expected benefits from revenue initiatives—most notably a full quarter of network optimization.
Significant challenges presented by Boeing aircraft delivery delays, and the related reduction in second half 2024 capacity, negatively impact the Company’s previous expectation for double-digit year-over-year operating revenue growth for full year 2024. As such, the Company now expects full year 2024 year-over-year operating revenue growth approaching high-single digits when adjusted for current trends and planned reductions for post-summer schedules. While the Company remains committed to the goal of earning its cost of capital, these new challenges, combined with current trend pressures, make it more realistic to expect that to occur beyond 2024. The Company is working on further optimization of its network with the goal to improve unit revenue performance and operating margins5. To that end, the Company has made the difficult decision to cease operations at Bellingham International Airport, Cozumel International Airport, Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, and Syracuse Hancock International Airport on August 4, 2024, and significantly restructure other markets, most notably by implementing capacity reductions in both Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
The Company’s initiatives, which include the estimated benefit of network changes, are expected to contribute between $1.0 billion and $1.5 billion in 2024 year-over-year pre-tax profits, compared with its initial plan of roughly $1.5 billion. The estimated value has been updated for first quarter actual performance, development market adjustments, and capacity changes in the second half of the year. Furthermore, the Company will continue to evaluate its network and work on its robust set of new strategic initiatives, including revenue generating opportunities.
Fuel Costs and Outlook:
First quarter 2024 economic fuel costs were $2.92 per gallon1—slightly below the Company’s previous expectations primarily as a result of lower-than-expected refinery margins—and included $0.08 per gallon in premium expense and $0.04 per gallon in favorable cash settlements from fuel derivative contracts
First quarter 2024 fuel efficiency improved 2.5 percent, year-over-year, primarily due to more -8 aircraft, the Company’s most fuel-efficient aircraft, as a percentage of its fleet
As of April 18, 2024, the fair market value of the Company’s fuel derivative contracts settling in second quarter 2024 through the end of 2026 was an asset of $270 million
The Company’s multi-year fuel hedging program continues to provide protection against spikes in energy prices. The Company’s current fuel derivative contracts contain a combination of instruments based on West Texas Intermediate and Brent crude oil, and refined products, such as heating oil. The economic fuel price per gallon sensitivities3 provided in the table below assume the relationship between Brent crude oil and refined products based on market prices as of April 18, 2024.
Estimated economic fuel price per gallon, including taxes and fuel hedging premiums
Average Brent Crude Oil price per barrel
2Q 2024
2024
$70
$2.45 – $2.55
$2.50 – $2.60
$80
$2.65 – $2.75
$2.70 – $2.80
Current Market (a)
$2.70 – $2.80
$2.70 – $2.80
$90
$2.80 – $2.90
$2.85 – $2.95
$100
$3.00 – $3.10
$3.05 – $3.15
$110
$3.10 – $3.20
$3.15 – $3.25
Fair market value of fuel derivative contracts settling in period
$27 million
$109 million
Estimated premium costs
$39 million
$158 million
(a) Brent crude oil average market prices as of April 18, 2024, were $87 and $84 per barrel for second quarter and full year 2024, respectively.
In addition, the Company is providing its maximum percentage of estimated fuel consumption6 covered by fuel derivative contracts in the following table:
Period
Maximum fuel hedged percentage (a)
2024
58 %
2025
47 %
2026
26 %
(a) Based on the Company’s current available seat mile plans. The Company is currently 55 percent hedged in second quarter 2024 and 58 percent hedged for second half 2024.
Non-Fuel Costs and Outlook:
First quarter 2024 operating expenses increased 12.2 percent, year-over-year, to $6.7 billion
First quarter 2024 operating expenses, excluding fuel and oil expense, special items, and profitsharing1, increased 16.5 percent, year-over-year
First quarter 2024 CASM-X increased 5.0 percent, year-over-year—better than the Company’s previous expectations
The Company’s first quarter 2024 CASM-X increased 5.0 percent, year-over-year, approximately one point better than prior guidance primarily due to favorable airport settlements and higher-than-expected participation in voluntary time off programs. The majority of the first quarter CASM-X increase, year-over-year, was attributable to higher 2024 overall labor cost increases, as well as pressure from planned maintenance expenses.
The Company continues to expect similar cost pressures throughout the year, driving second quarter 2024 CASM-X to an expected increase in the range of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent, year-over-year. The Company expects full year 2024 CASM-X to increase in the range of 7 percent to 8 percent, based on a reduction of roughly 2 points of lower than previously expected capacity, on a year-over-year basis.
First quarter 2024 net interest income, which is included in Other expenses (income), increased $18 million, year-over-year, primarily due to a $16 millionincrease in interest income driven by higher interest rates.
Fleet, Capacity, and Capital Spending: During first quarter 2024, the Company received five -8 aircraft and retired three -700 aircraft, ending first quarter with 819 aircraft. Given the Company’s discussions with Boeing and expected aircraft delivery delays, the Company plans for approximately 20 -8 aircraft deliveries in 2024, a reduction from the Company’s previous expectation of 46 -8 aircraft deliveries, which differs from its contractual order book displayed in the table below. Consequently, to support fleet flexibility for 2025, the Company plans to retire approximately 35 aircraft in 2024 (31 -700s and four -800s), a reduction from its previous expectation of 49 (45 -700s and four -800s). This will result in a fleet of roughly 802 aircraft at year-end 2024. As a result of Boeing’s delivery delays, the Company has conservatively re-planned its capacity and delivery expectations for the remainder of this year and next. However, there is no assurance that Boeing will meet this most recent delivery schedule.
The Company’s flight schedule is published for sale through March 5, 2025. In light of the Company’s lower aircraft delivery expectations, the Company estimates second quarter 2024 capacity to increase in the range of 8 percent to 9 percent; third quarter 2024 capacity to increase in the low-single digits; fourth quarter 2024 capacity to decrease in the low- to mid-single digits; and full year 2024 capacity to increase approximately 4 percent, all on a year-over-year percentage basis. While the Company continues to adjust and re-optimize schedules for the second half of the year, the current expectation is for aircraft seats and trip frequency to decline in the third and fourth quarters of 2024, both on a year-over-year basis. The Company currently plans for capacity growth beyond 2024 to be at or below macroeconomic growth trends until the Company reaches its long-term financial goal to consistently achieve after-tax return on invested capital (“ROIC”)7 well above its weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”).
The Company’s first quarter 2024 capital expenditures were $583 million, driven primarily by aircraft-related capital spending, as well as technology, facilities, and operational investments. The Company now estimates its 2024 capital spending to be roughly $2.5 billion, which includes approximately $1.0 billion in aircraft capital spending, assuming approximately 20 -8 aircraft deliveries in 2024 and continued progress delivery payments for the Company’s contractual 2025 firm orders.
Last week, the Company entered into a Supplemental Agreement with Boeing relating to its contractual order book for -7 and -8 aircraft. This Supplemental Agreement addresses updates related to the continued -7 delay in certification and supports the Company’s continued focus on fleet modernization. The Supplemental Agreement formalized the conversion of 19 2025 -7 firm orders into -8 firm orders as of March 31, 2024, and shifted one 2025 -8 option into 2026 as of April 2024. The following tables provide further information regarding the Company’s contractual order book and compare its contractual order book as of April 25, 2024, with its previous order book as of January 25, 2024. The contractual order book as of April 25, 2024 does not include the impact of delivery delays and is subject to change based on ongoing discussions with Boeing.
Current 737 Contractual Order Book as of April 25, 2024:
The Boeing Company
-7 Firm Orders
-8 Firm Orders
-7 or -8 Options
Total
2024
27
58
—
85
(c)
2025
40
19
14
73
2026
59
—
27
86
2027
19
46
25
90
2028
15
50
25
90
2029
38
34
18
90
2030
45
—
45
90
2031
45
—
45
90
288
(a)
207
(b)
199
694
(a) The delivery timing for the -7 is dependent on the FAA issuing required certifications and approvals to Boeing and the Company. The FAA will ultimately determine the timing of the -7 certification and entry into service, and the Company therefore offers no assurances that current estimations and timelines are correct.
(b) The Company has flexibility to designate firm orders or options as -7s or -8s, upon written advance notification as stated in the contract.
(c) Includes five -8 deliveries received year-to-date through March 31, 2024. Given the Company’s continued discussions with Boeing and expected aircraft delivery delays, the Company is currently planning for approximately 20 -8 aircraft deliveries in 2024.
Previous 737 Order Book as of January 25, 2024 (a):
The Boeing Company
-7 Firm Orders
-8 Firm Orders
-7 or -8 Options
Total
2024
27
58
—
85
2025
59
—
15
74
2026
59
—
26
85
2027
19
46
25
90
2028
15
50
25
90
2029
38
34
18
90
2030
45
—
45
90
2031
45
—
45
90
307
188
199
694
(a) The ‘Previous 737 Order Book’ is for reference and comparative purposes only. It should not be relied upon. See ‘Current 737 Contractual Order Book’ for the Company’s current aircraft order book.
Liquidity and Capital Deployment:
The Company ended first quarter 2024 with $10.5 billion in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, and a fully available revolving credit line of $1.0 billion
The $921 million reduction in cash and cash equivalents during first quarter 2024 was driven primarily by the $1.35 billion payout of the Pilot contract ratification bonus
The Company continues to have a large base of unencumbered assets with a net book value of approximately $17.2 billion, including $14.4 billion in aircraft value and $2.8 billion in non-aircraft assets such as spare engines, ground equipment, and real estate
The Company had a net cash position8 of $2.5 billion, and adjusted debt to invested capital (“leverage”)9 of 47 percent as of March 31, 2024
The Company returned $215 million to its Shareholders through the payment of dividends during first quarter 2024
The Company paid $8 million during first quarter 2024 to retire debt and finance lease obligations, consisting entirely of scheduled lease payments
Awards and Recognitions:
Named to FORTUNE’s list of World’s Most Admired® Companies; ranked #39 overall
Named Domestic Carrier of the Year by the Airforwarders Association
Named the #2 domestic airline by the 2024 Elliot Readers’ Choice Awards
Recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Responsible Companies
Earned Top Score in Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2023-2024 Corporate Equality Index
Designated one of the 25 Best Companies for Latinos to Work 2024 by Latino Leaders Magazine
Received the following 2024 designations from Viqtory: Military Friendly Employer, Military Spouse Employer, and Military Friendly Supplier Diversity Program
Environmental, Social, and Governance (“ESG”):
Announced the launch of Southwest Airlines Renewable Ventures (“SARV”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Southwest Airlines® dedicated to creating more opportunities for Southwest to obtain scalable sustainable aviation fuel (“SAF”), a critical component in the success of the carrier’s goal to replace 10 percent of its total jet fuel consumption with SAF by 2030
Announced the acquisition of SAFFiRE Renewables, LLC (“SAFFiRE”) as part of the SARV investment portfolio. SAFFiRE expects to utilize technology developed at the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (“NREL”) to convert corn stover, a widely available agricultural residue feedstock in the U.S., into renewable ethanol
Announced a $30 million investment in LanzaJet, Inc., a SAF technology provider and producer with the world’s first ethanol-to-SAF commercial plant, as part of the SARV investment portfolio
Joined the Hawai’i Seaglider Initiative to explore the feasibility of 100 percent electric, zero direct emissions technology
Published the Southwest Airlines Climate Advocacy statement
Celebrated Black History Month and Women’s History Month throughout February and March 2024, respectively. Southwest highlighted its Employee Resource Groups and encouraged Employees to get involved and learn more about cultural, heritage, and pride months
Highlighted National Human Trafficking Prevention Month to educate Employees and Customers on ways to help combat this issue. Southwest is proud to support multiple nonprofit organizations whose efforts help with the rescue, recovery, and restoration of human trafficking survivors
Launched applications for the Southwest Scholarship Program, which includes two scholarship opportunities. The Southwest Airlines® Community Scholarship seeks to build a diverse talent pipeline, while inspiring future generations to find careers within the airline industry. The Southwest Airlines® Founders Scholarship was established for eligible dependents of Southwest Airlines Employees to pursue higher education
Celebrated the fifth anniversary of Southwest’s service to Hawaii by announcing a partnership with the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (“CNHA”) as Presenting Sponsor of the community’s beloved and revitalized Kilohana Hula Show
Visit southwest.com/citizenship for more details about the Company’s ongoing ESG efforts
Because of the Boeing delivery delays, Southwest will drop service to four destinations on August 4, 2024:
Alaska Airlines is expanding service at two of its major hubs in Southern California with new routes and additional capacity to popular West Coast destinations as part of the carrier’s ongoing commitment to growth in the state.
Starting this fall, we’re adding our 39th nonstop destination from San Diego with service to Las Vegas. We’re also starting new service between Los Angeles and Pasco, as well as bringing back guest favorite Los Angeles to Reno. Guests can now book these new, nonstop routes on alaskaair.com with service beginning Oct. 1, 2024.
Alaska also announced it is adding more flights to destinations already serve out of Los Angeles International Airport, increasing capacity by more than 25%, including to Boise, Medford, Portland, San Jose, Santa Rosa and Seattle/Tacoma.
In Los Angeles, we’ll start to fly our expanded schedule on Oct. 1, 2024 when we’ll offer the most daily flights to West Coast destinations of any airline from LAX.
You must be logged in to post a comment.