Delta urges U.S. carriers to curb capacity growth in 2027

Delta CEO Ed Bastian told U.S. airlines they need to limit capacity growth in 2027 to protect profitability, while the carrier plans to concentrate most of its 2027 expansion on international routes rather than domestic flights.

Delta raised ticket prices by about 20% this year with little passenger resistance, and U.S. flight prices from April to August were about 25% higher than the previous year, according to BLS data. The airline also expects a 20% revenue increase in the fourth quarter with moderate capacity growth.