Aviation slowdown might catch up with United Airlines in fourth quarter results

United Airlines parent United Continental Holdings (UAL) has been having a good run so far, but the slowing trend in aviation might finally catch up to the company. All eyes are on the fourth quarter results that are expected to be announced before the market opens on Tuesday, Jan. 15.

The market expects earnings of $1.98 per share on revenue of $10.37 billion for the quarter.

Shortly after the United Airlines announcement, rival Delta Air Lines (DAL) will also post its fourth-quarter results.

Delta Air Lines stock might see further slide after posting fourth-quarter results

With reports flooding in that the aviation sector failing to capitalize on the falling gasoline prices, shareholder sentiment had tanked recently.

In the first week of January, shortly after Delta Air Line posted lower-than-expected outlook, the entire sector saw a quick sell-off.

REVISITING THE LAST QUARTER

In the previously reported third quarter, the United Airlines parent recorded a 30% jump in earnings helped by double-digit revenue growth despite a steep rise in fuel costs. The top line was above analysts’ expectations pushing the stock 4% then, even as the bottom line missed consensus estimates.

Net income climbed 30% to $836 million and earnings soared 42.3% to $3.06 per share. Non-GAAP earnings increased 36% to $3.06 per share. Revenue grew by 11.2% to $11 billion.

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