United Airlines’ cargo business softens in Q2 as company turns profit

Cargo revenue growth at United Airlines decelerated in the second quarter but was barely noticed as a surge in passenger demand pushed the carrier to its first profit since the pandemic despite high fuel costs. 

United (NASDAQ: UAL), which has led U.S. carriers in cargo the past couple years, generated $574 million in cago revenue for the June quarter, a drop of 5.3% from the 2021 period but still 95% above the pre-pandemic level, according to results posted after Thursday’s market close. During the first half, cargo revenue topped $1.2 billion, $98 million above last year’s total and 107% better than in 2019.

In 2021, United Cargo received $2.4 billion in revenue. The figure could still be achieved with a strong second half, but logistics experts say demand for international freight transportation is more muted this year because of adequate retail inventories and slower consumer spending.

United’s first-quarter cargo sales were $627 million, 26% more than in 2021.

Rival Delta Air Lines’ (NYSE: DAL) cargo business saw its best second quarter in history with $272 million in revenue, a 46% jump from before the pandemic and 8.4% above 2021. For the first half, Delta Cargo pulled in $561 million in revenue.

United recorded adjusted net income of $471 million behind record second-quarter operating revenue of $12.1 billion. Adjusted operating margin was 8.2% and the company said it expects a full-year margin of 9%.

Management said the pandemic recovery in passenger travel will more than offset a slowing economy but acknowledged operational challenges, record fuel costs and a potential recession presented a risk to returns.

United in recent weeks has trimmed its schedule by 15% to prevent more flight cancellations and delays after being caught short on pilots as demand soared. Airport congestion has also slowed operations. The cutbacks impacted United’s top-line potential and increased costs.

Earnings per share of $1.43 were below analysts’ consensus of $1.88. Flight reductions contributed to higher costs – $283 million above the forecast by Cowen investment bank. United cut capacity at its Newark, N.J., hub alone by 12% because it had too many flights scheduled at an airport that is also undergoing runway resurfacing, terminal construction and air traffic control issues.

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