Delta Air Lines leverages American Express partnership to boost profitability

Delta Air Lines has maintained its leadership in U.S. aviation profitability and service quality, but United Airlines is closing the gap after a strong 2024. United is expanding internationally in summer 2025, intensifying competition. Delta's partnership with American Express is a key advantage. Since 1996, American Express has issued Delta co-branded credit cards, attracting high-spending business travelers. This relationship enhances Delta's loyalty program and provides significant financial benefits. Delta earns over $7 billion annually from its American Express partnership, which offers exclusive perks that United's Chase cards cannot match. This structural advantage strengthens Delta's market position amid increasing competition from United.