EPISODE · Oct 7, 2025 · 9 MIN
Airline Profits Exposed!
from The Weekly Travel Alert · host Steve Glenn
Are airlines really making money flying passengers — or is there more happening behind the scenes? In this week’s episode, we break down the shocking truth: U.S. airlines would be losing money without their loyalty programs, credit card partnerships, and frequent flyer miles.💳 The big reveal:A groundbreaking analysis shows that without loyalty revenue:✈️ Delta’s 10.5% profit margin turns into a 2.5% loss✈️ United’s 8.9% profit drops to a 1.9% loss✈️ American’s 4.8% profit flips to an 8.3% loss✈️ Alaska’s 4.9% profit becomes an 11.4% loss✈️ Southwest’s 1.2% profit plunges to a 19.9% loss💼 What this means for travelers:Airlines earn billions selling miles and co-branded credit cards — far more than they earn flying you from point A to B.Credit card partnerships now account for 10% to 21% of total airline revenue.Loyalty programs are so valuable that old predictions — like charging a fee for credit card use or canceling “Companion Fly Free” perks — are dead forever.🚨 Why you should care:This shift is reshaping the travel industry. Credit cards are effectively subsidizing your ticket, but smaller airlines without massive loyalty programs are being left behind — which could mean fewer low-cost options in the future. Understanding how airlines make money can help you maximize points, earn upgrades, and travel smarter.🎙️ Watch now to learn how to turn this knowledge into free flights, elite status, and better deals. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, business traveler, or travel manager, this episode is a must-listen.🔗 Learn more and explore travel solutions: https://executivetravel.com/📬 Subscribe to our Weekly Travel Newsletter: https://executivetravel.com/eti-home/subscribe/
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Are airlines really making money flying passengers — or is there more happening behind the scenes? In this week’s episode, we break down the shocking truth: U.S. airlines would be losing money without their loyalty programs, credit card partnerships, and frequent flyer miles. 💳 The big reveal: A groundbreaking analysis shows that without loyalty revenue: ✈️ Delta’s 10.5% profit margin turns into a 2.5% loss ✈️ United’s 8.9% profit drops to a 1.9% loss ✈️ American’s 4.8% profit flips to an 8....
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Airline Profits Exposed!
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