In the dynamic realm of aviation, several airlines have soared above the rest, marking their dominance in terms of revenue.
This article sheds light on the colossal entities of the aviation sector, with data derived from Forbes’ meticulous compilation of the top ten public carriers globally as of January.
Air Canada, the national carrier of Canada, holds the tenth position, boasting a revenue of $12.7 billion. Established in 1937, it operates from its headquarters in Saint-Laurent, Quebec, offering both scheduled and charter services to over 225 destinations with a fleet exceeding 350 aircraft. Despite its substantial revenue, the airline recorded a loss of $1.3 billion.
China Southern Airlines, the colossal carrier of China, is ninth on the list with a revenue of $12.9 billion. Founded in 1988, it stands as Asia’s largest airline in fleet size and passenger volume, operating over 900 aircraft to more than 215 destinations worldwide. However, the airline faced a significant loss of $4.8 billion.
Ascending the Aerial Ladder
Turkish Airlines, Turkiye’s flag carrier, is the eighth largest by revenue, amassing $19.7 billion. Established in 1933, it operates over 400 aircraft to more than 350 destinations, making it the largest airline by the number of destinations served. Remarkably, the airline reported a profit of $2.8 billion.
The International Airlines Group (IAG), a conglomerate of several airlines including British Airways and Iberia, is seventh, with a revenue of $24.3 billion. Established in 2011, IAG operates to numerous destinations globally, reporting a profit of $470 million.
Southwest Airlines, the largest low-cost carrier globally, ranks sixth with a revenue of $24.8 billion. Founded in 1967, it primarily offers domestic services, operating over 800 Boeing 737 aircraft to more than 120 destinations, and reported a profit of $650 million.
The Air France-KLM Group, a multinational holding company, is fifth with a revenue of $29.4 billion. Formed in 2004, it operates from primary offices in Paris and the Netherlands, reporting a profit of $970 million.
Lufthansa Group, Germany’s flag carrier, is fourth with a revenue of $35.8 billion. Established in 1955, it operates over 275 aircraft to more than 310 destinations, reporting a profit of $940 million.
United Airlines Holdings, one of the ‘big three’ in the US, is third with a revenue of $48.8 billion. Founded in 1926, it operates over 900 aircraft to more than 350 destinations, reporting a profit of $1.9 billion.
American Airlines Group, another ‘big three’ member, is second with a revenue of $52.3 billion. Established in 1926, it operates over 950 aircraft to more than 350 destinations,reporting a profit of $1.8 billion.
Topping the list is Delta Air Lines with a revenue of $54 billion. Founded in 1925, it operates over 950 aircraft to more than 325 destinations, reporting a profit of $1.9 billion.
These airlines, with their immense revenue and extensive operations, continue to shape the trajectory of the global aviation industry, navigating through challenges and soaring to new heights.