Delta Air Gives Workers 4% Pay Raise Amid Industry Uncertainty

Delta Air Lines Inc. will give its employees a 4% pay increase this year, similar to the increase in 2025, even as the airline industry grapples with uncertainty over surging fuel costs.

The increase represents the fifth consecutive raise for workers in as many years and would cost $500 million, according to a statement Friday.

The announcement comes as carriers grapple with soaring oil prices due to the war in the Middle East that have squeezed margins and forced airlines to rethink growth plans.

A Delta plane takes off from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Dec. 23, 2025.

Photographer: Elijah Nouvelage/Bloomberg

President Donald Trump’s administration is considering a financial rescue package for embattled Spirit Aviation ...