La vendita allo scoperto per American Airlines Gr dà agli investitori un'idea del grado in cui gli investitori stanno scommettendo sul declino delle azioni di American Airlines Gr. I dati relativi alle vendite allo scoperto vengono aggiornati ogni due settimane.

American Airlines Gr (NASDAQ:AAL) Azioni, Report sulle vendite allo scoperto

American Airlines Gr

American Airlines Group

Anglo American

American Airlines is the world's largest airline by aircraft, capacity, and scheduled revenue passenger miles. Its major US hubs are Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. It generates over 30% of US airline revenue connecting Latin America with destinations in the United States. After completing a major fleet renewal, the company has the youngest fleet of US legacy carriers.

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Disastro aereo a Washington: ecco cosa sappiamo finora

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I futures azionari statunitensi in ribasso mettono sotto i riflettori alcune aziende chiave, con risultati finanziari e movimenti di mercato.

GE Aerospace, American Airlines e altre 3 azioni da monitorare giovedì

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Gli analisti mettono in guardia gli investitori su tre titoli del settore con un alto rischio di crollo. Ecco i dettagli e le previsioni.

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American Airlines Group, Inc. - Common Stock

American Airlines Group Inc

AALBERTS INDUS NV ORD by A. Alberts Industries

Aalberts NV

MNST

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Viking Global Investors' Latest 13F Filing Reveals New 1.90M Share Stake In UnitedHealth Group, 4.09M Shares In Taiwan Semiconductor, 2.98M Shares In Boeing, 8.06M Shares In Monster Beverage, 2.77M Shares In Intercontinental Exchange, 1.71M Shares In Ross Stores, 3.62M Shares In Skechers USA, 13.54M Shares In American Airlines Group

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Trump Says EU Has 20% Value Added Tax, Also Have Other Measures That Hurt U.S. Companies Including Apple; Says Airlines Asking Him To Help With EU Fees; Canada Has Been Tough On Military, Not Paying Enough; Canada Doesn't Have Enough Military Protection

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on American Airlines Gr (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether this is an institution or just a wealthy individual, we don't know. But when something this big happens with AAL, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 9 options trades for American Airlines Gr.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 0% bullish and 88%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, 8 are puts, for a total amount of $495,301, and there was 1 call, for a total amount of $34,222.
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $14.0 to $17.0 for American Airlines Gr over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of American Airlines Gr stands at 10541.5, with a total volume reaching 24,629.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in American Airlines Gr, situated within the strike price corridor from $14.0 to $17.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>American Airlines Gr Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1739464283_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/14/25</td>
<td>$0.45</td>
<td>$0.41</td>
<td>$0.44</td>
<td>$16.00</td>
<td>$110.5K</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
<td>4.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$2.07</td>
<td>$2.05</td>
<td>$2.06</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$103.2K</td>
<td>4.9K</td>
<td>506</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$0.49</td>
<td>$0.45</td>
<td>$0.49</td>
<td>$16.00</td>
<td>$98.2K</td>
<td>11.9K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/14/25</td>
<td>$0.44</td>
<td>$0.41</td>
<td>$0.44</td>
<td>$16.00</td>
<td>$44.1K</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
<td>5.9K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$0.57</td>
<td>$0.53</td>
<td>$0.56</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$38.1K</td>
<td>18.4K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About American Airlines Gr</h3>
American Airlines is the world's largest airline by aircraft, capacity, and scheduled revenue passenger miles. Its major US hubs are Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. It generates over 30% of US airline revenue connecting Latin America with destinations in the United States. After completing a major fleet renewal, the company has the youngest fleet of US legacy carriers.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with American Airlines Gr, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Present Market Standing of American Airlines Gr</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 16,612,359, the AAL's price is up by 0.55%, now at $16.35. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 70 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On American Airlines Gr</h3>
In the last month, 3 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $20.333333333333332.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Raymond James has revised its rating downward to Outperform, adjusting the price target to $23. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Susquehanna persists with their Neutral rating on American Airlines Gr, maintaining a target price of $18. 
&#x2A; An analyst from B of A Securities upgraded its action to Neutral with a price target of $20. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for American Airlines Gr, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

Decoding American Airlines Gr's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Winter weather is moving into nearly every part of the country this week and threatens to bring several different weather hazards depending on location. An atmospheric river is taking aim at fire-scarred areas of Southern California, while the MidAtlantic and Northeast regions brace for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43544471/winter-storm">more snow and ice.&nbsp;</a>
MidAtlantic Snow: The first major weather event of this busy week will strike the MidAtlantic region on Tuesday with snow and ice spreading through the Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York City metro areas.&nbsp;
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/02/43600652/super-micro-computer-q2-earnings-preview-accounting-updates-nasdaq-deadline-on-watch">Super Micro Computer Q2 Earnings Preview: Accounting Updates, Nasdaq Deadline On Watch&nbsp;</a>
AccuWeather meteorologists warn that the <a href="https://www.accuweather.com/en/winter-weather/early-week-winter-storm-to-dump-snow-from-dc-to-philly-nyc/1743253">storm</a> will trigger plowing operations and deicing activity at airports in an area covering approximately 200,000 square miles. 
Travelers should prepare for delays and disruptions. Two of the largest airlines serving the Washington D.C. and Philadelphia airports are American Airlines Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>).&nbsp;
Northeast Snow: A second snow and ice storm will follow quickly on the heels of the MidAtlantic snow, arriving on Wednesday night with snow forecast for New England and rain further south. Snow will change to sleet and freezing rain during the day on Thursday and come to an end on Thursday night. 
Grocery and home improvement stores may see increased traffic as people stock up on food and essentials before the storm. Retailers like Walmart, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) and Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HD#NYSE">HD</a>) could see a boost in revenue from storm-related sales.&nbsp;
California Rain: An atmospheric river is lining up and will hit California on Wednesday, with the worst of the weather expected on Thursday. The storm is expected to be the strongest in a year, according to <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-02-11/strongest-southern-california-storm-in-a-year-what-to-know">the</a> Los Angeles Times and will bring heavy rains to the entire state, including fire-damaged areas of Los Angeles. 
The National Weather Service warned of "potentially life-threatening and damaging flooding and debris flows," which are a type of landslide that may affect the recently burned areas.&nbsp;
Residents and insurance companies in Southern California, like Allstate Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALL#NYSE">ALL</a>) and Chubb Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CB#NYSE">CB</a>), may take another hit if further damage is caused by landslides and debris flows in the fire-ravaged areas.&nbsp;
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/02/43535256/palantir-adds-elon-musks-ai-chatbot-grok-to-aip">Palantir Adds Elon Musk&#8217;s AI Chatbot Grok To AIP</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Large Cap

Travel

Insurance

General

February Winter Weather Set To Bring Northeast Snow, Soak California Fire Zones

American Airlines Gr's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NYSE">AAL</a>) short percent of float has risen 12.64% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 51.09 million shares sold short, which is 8.82% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 1.92 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>American Airlines Gr Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1739286067_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for American Airlines Gr has grown since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to fall in the near-term but traders should be aware that more shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing American Airlines Gr's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, American Airlines Gr's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 8.35%, which means the company has more short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

How Is The Market Feeling About American Airlines Gr?

Government

Regulations

SAVE

FAA Slowing Arrival Rate At Washington Reagan National Airport After Crash To Reduce Risk, Says Investigators Have Expressed Concern For Air Traffic Tower Personnel Who Have Increased Level Of Stress Since Fatal Crash

Susquehanna analyst Christopher Stathoulopoulos maintains American Airlines Gr (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $20 to $18.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

Susquehanna Maintains Neutral on American Airlines Gr, Lowers Price Target to $18

An American Airlines (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) plane and an Army helicopter&#8217;s mid-air collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has authorities looking for answers as President Donald Trump lashes out at DEI policies as<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/43354408/trump-comments-on-american-airlines-crash-heres-what-we-know-what-he-suggests-is-to-blame"> an early scapegoat.</a>
What Happened: The Wednesday night crash led to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/43343648/all-60-passengers-4-crew-members-onboard-american-airlines-jet-feared-dead-after-midair-collision-official-says">death of 67 people </a>aboard the two aircraft after which the search and rescue mission quickly turned into a recovery mission.
A total of 41 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage along with black boxes from the plane. Officials continue to look for the black box aboard the Army helicopter, <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/live-blog/dc-plane-crash-live-updates-rcna190079">reported</a> NBC News.
American Airlines announced Friday that flight number 5342 will be retired and renamed as flight number 5677. Changing flight numbers after accidents is a common practice for the industry.
The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is operating as normal on Friday after facing closures following the accident.
Wednesday's plane crash is the deadliest aviation incident in the United States in 23 years.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43373139/trumps-comments-on-american-airlines-crash-despicable-says-pete-buttigieg-president-should-be-leading-not-lying">Trump&#8217;s Comments On American Airlines Crash &#8216;Despicable,&#8217; Says Pete Buttigieg: President Should Be &#8216;Leading, Not Lying&#8217;</a>
What Could Investigation Find?: The investigation, which is being led by the National Transportation Safety Board, is in the early stages and preliminary findings from the black boxes could take around 30 days to be made public.
Early reports in the investigation from the Federal Aviation Administration point to one air traffic controller being left to do the jobs of two people, the New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/31/business/dc-plane-helicopter-crash-cause.html">reported</a>.
The airport often has one air traffic controller handling air traffic and one handling helicopters. On some nights after 9:30 p.m. when traffic is lower, one person handles both duties. The report said on Wednesday one traffic controller was allowed to leave before 9:30 leaving one person in charge of both duties earlier than normal.
The FAA investigation said this was "not normal for the time of day and volume of traffic."
Audio recordings hear the traffic controller asking the helicopter to stay away from the flight path of the plane.
The helicopter also allegedly flew outside its approved flight plan and the airplane was told to land at a different runway than originally planned, adding additional complications to landing at the airport.
Another item factoring into the investigation is a shortage of air traffic controllers at the airport with some employees working six days a week and 10 hours a day, which may lead to fatigue and impact the ability to do their jobs.
An FAA spokesperson said the airport had 25 certified air traffic controllers out of a goal of 28. Reports show there were 19 controllers back in September 2023 with the union asking for 30.
The plane crash and investigation follows changes made at several key government agencies in recent days. On Jan. 21, Trump fired the heads of the Coast Guard and Transportation Security Administration and eliminated the Aviation Security Advisory Committee.
Former Federal Aviation Administration leader Michael Whitaker resigned from his position on Jan. 20, a move that came months after Trump-ally Elon Musk demanded he quit his position.
Helicopter traffic around the airport has been an ongoing concern flagged by pilots before and could factor into the investigation and lead to changes.
On Tuesday, another flight set to land at Reagan Washington National Airport had to go around due to helicopter traffic, NBC News reported. &nbsp;
A <a href="https://www.nbcchicago.com/investigations/records-show-pilots-complained-for-20-years-about-near-misses-at-dc-airport/3661183/">review </a>of complaints by NBC 5 found at least 16 complaints since 2006 of pilots having close calls with helicopters or other airplanes when trying to land at the airport.
Included in the complaints is one from April 2024 where a pilot said he did not see a helicopter 300 feet below his aircraft and received no warning from air traffic control.
Trump's Blame Game: Trump has suggested in the days following the accident that diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies "could have been" a cause of the plane crash.  
When asked about coming to the conclusion that DEI was to blame and providing evidence, Trump snapped back at a reporter.
"Because I have common sense. OK? And unfortunately, a lot of people don't. We want brilliant people doing this," Trump said. &nbsp;
Also supporting Trump's public blaming DEI for the deadly accident was billionaire Elon Musk, who owns the X social media platform.
Musk <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1885089037112791069">shared </a>multiple posts from people suggesting DEI factored into the equation or could be a reason why the aircrafts collided. Musk also shared a New York Post article about the FAA pushing for diversity in hiring.
"Under the Biden administration, the FAA and other government agencies had absolutely insane hiring practices that endangered the public. President @realDonaldTrump and his team are working rapidly to restore competent personnel to all positions involving your safety," Musk tweeted.
Reporters asked White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt about Trump's remarks during a press briefing Friday.
"Given DEI hires, it's not safe to fly commercially, is it?" Fox News White House correspondent Peter Doocy <a href="https://x.com/atrupar/status/1885391686924157358">asked</a>.
Leavitt said it is still safe, a comment that could contradict what Trump said the day before.
Doocy also <a href="https://x.com/atrupar/status/1885392023462490597">asked </a>if the air traffic controller in the DCA tower Wednesday was hired or not fired previously because of their race.
"That investigation is ongoing," Leavitt answered. <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/author/phil-helsel-ncpn115631"></a><a href="https://www.wsj.com/news/author/benjamin-katz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>
AAL Price Action: American Airlines stock is up 1% to $17.04 on Friday versus a 52-week trading range of $9.07 to $19.10. The stock dropped Thursday and is now trading nearly flat in 2024 with shares up 20% over the last year.

Trump, Musk Blame DEI For Plane Crash: Authorities Look At Staffing, Congestion For Answers, Search Continues After 41 Bodies Found

Pete Buttigieg, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation, criticized President Donald Trump&#8217;s handling of the <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/25/01/43328465/no-survivors-yet-to-plane-crash-near-reagan-national-airport-american-airlines-ceo-heads-to-washington">recent fatal crash</a> of an American Airlines Group Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AA#NASDAQ">AA</a>) plane, highlighting the safety record during his tenure.
What Happened: On Thursday, Buttigieg took to X to express his disapproval of Trump&#8217;s response to the tragic midair collision that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/43343648/all-60-passengers-4-crew-members-onboard-american-airlines-jet-feared-dead-after-midair-collision-official-says">resulted in 64 fatalities</a>. 
He emphasized the safety measures implemented during his time in office, including the growth of Air Traffic Control and the reduction of close calls. 
&#8220;Despicable. As families grieve, Trump should be leading, not lying. We put safety first, drove down close calls, grew Air Traffic Control, and had zero commercial airline crash fatalities out of millions of flights on our watch,&#8221; Buttigieg said.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Despicable. As families grieve, Trump should be leading, not lying. We put safety first, drove down close calls, grew Air Traffic Control, and had zero commercial airline crash fatalities out of millions of flights on our watch. President Trump now oversees the military and the…
&mdash; Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteButtigieg/status/1885013865676562491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Buttigieg also pointed out that one of Trump&#8217;s first acts as President was to fire and suspend key personnel who helped ensure aviation safety. He called on the President to demonstrate leadership and outline measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43372252/elon-musk-brushes-aside-concerns-on-trumps-ev-policies-sustainable-transport-is-inevitable-it-cant-be-stopped">Elon Musk Brushes Aside Concerns On Trump&#8217;s EV Policies: &#8216;Sustainable Transport Is Inevitable … It Can&#8217;t Be Stopped&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: The midair collision, involving an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, is the deadliest air disaster on U.S. soil since 2001. 
The crash occurred near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, leading to the suspension of all takeoffs and landings for the rest of the evening. This incident happened just nine days after President Trump&#8217;s inauguration, during which he <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/43354408/trump-comments-on-american-airlines-crash-heres-what-we-know-what-he-suggests-is-to-blame">fired the heads</a> of the Transportation Security Administration and Coast Guard.
Trump suggested that diversity, equity and inclusion policies could have been a factor in the fatal crash, but did not provide any evidence. When pressed on his claims, the president said he had &#8220;common sense.&#8221;
Price Action: American Airlines stock closed nearly 2.5% lower at $16.90 on Thursday and gained 0.3% in the after-hours trading, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">data from Benzinga Pro.</a>
Photo Courtesy: Rich Koele On Shutterstock.com
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Future Of Mobility coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43315953/general-motors-turnaround-on-track-despite-ev-roadblocks-analysts-view">General Motors&#8217; Turnaround On Track Despite EV Roadblocks – Analysts Say</a></li>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

Trump's Comments On American Airlines Crash 'Despicable,' Says Pete Buttigieg: President Should Be 'Leading, Not Lying'

Various airline-related staffing and regulatory changes were made on the heels of President Donald Trump&#8216;s inauguration, just nine days before a tragic midair collision resulted in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/43343648/all-60-passengers-4-crew-members-onboard-american-airlines-jet-feared-dead-after-midair-collision-official-says">the deaths of 64 people</a>. 
What Happened: On Tuesday, Jan. 21, Trump fired the heads of the Transportation Security Administration and Coast Guard.
The new administration also eliminated the Aviation Security Advisory Committee — a group tasked with examining safety issues at airlines and airports. A memo reiterated Trump&#8217;s "commitment to eliminating the misuse of resources and ensuring that [Department of Homeland Security] activities prioritize our national security," the Associated Press <a href="https://apnews.com/article/coast-guard-homeland-security-priorities-committees-trump-tsa-d3e4398c8871ada8d0590859442e092c">reported</a>.
Eight days later, a regional jet from American Airlines Group Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night.
&#8220;We&#8217;re all searching for answers,&#8221; Trump said during a press briefing Thursday, and almost immediately suggested that DEI, — an acronym for diversity, equity and inclusion — &#8220;could have been&#8221; a factor in the crash.
He provided no evidence.
When a journalist asked if he was prematurely linking the incident to DEI, Trump defended his claim. 
"I have common sense, OK?" Trump said.
What&#8217;s The Aviation Security Advisory Committee? Before Trump returned to office, the Aviation Security Advisory Committee worked in conjunction with the Transportation Security Administration. It included representatives from major airlines and major unions, as well as members associated with victims of a PanAm bombing over Scotland in 1988 — an <a href="https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/pan-am-103-bombing">incident</a> that originally inspired the group&#8217;s formation.
"I naively thought, ‘oh they're not going to do anything in the new administration, to put security at risk — aviation security at risk.' But I'm not so sure," Stephanie Bernstein, whose husband was killed in the bombing and served on the committee, told the Associated Press.
It&#8217;s worth noting that investigators have so far not published any evidence to suggest that staff changes or cuts made by Trump administration, including firings, contributed to the crash.
A Leaderless FAA: The Federal Aviation Administration's former leader, Michael Whitaker, stepped down on Jan. 20. His resignation came months after Elon Musk — Trump&#8217;s largest donor and a major proponent of spending cuts — demanded that he quit, <a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/faa-chief-michael-whitaker-quit-on-jan-20-after-elon-musk-told-him-to-resign/">The Daily Beast</a> reported.
Whitaker ran the FAA for about a year. During his tenure, Biden signed sweeping aviation legislation to boost air traffic controller staffing and increase funding to prevent runway incidents. The $105 billion bill reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for five years and <a href="https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x8ynouo">includes new safety measures</a>.
Wednesday&#8217;s crash is the deadliest U.S. air disaster since 2001.
&#8220;At this point, we don&#8217;t believe there are any survivors,&#8221; Washington&#8217;s Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said Thursday morning. Officials recovered 28 bodies from the scene in the Potomac River. 
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom also<a href="https://news.aa.com/news/news-details/2025/Information-regarding-American-Eagle-Flight-5342/default.aspx"> issued</a> a prepared statement: &#8220;Our focus right now is doing everything we can to support all of those involved. This is devastating. We are all hurting incredibly.&#8221;
What&#8217;s Next: Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, a former <a href="https://thechallenge.fandom.com/wiki/Sean_Duffy">reality television</a> star, emphasized the administration's commitment to investigating the incident. 
"I don't want to go into too much detail about the information we have from the FAA, but obviously it is not standard to have aircraft collide. I want to be clear on that,&#8221; Duffy said at a Thursday press conference.
Duffy was quickly taken to task for his comments on social media.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I&#39;m starting to think the guy from MTV&#39;s The Real World and Road Rules All Stars might not have a lot of expertise in transportation issues, particular aviation safety <a href="https://t.co/yLsydFHI1J">https://t.co/yLsydFHI1J</a>
&mdash; Matthew Sitman (@MatthewSitman) <a href="https://twitter.com/MatthewSitman/status/1884995690591289719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42053292/trump-picks-sean-duffy-as-next-transportation-secretary-says-he-will-usher-in-the-golden-age-of-travel">picked Duffy for the post</a> just days after winning the election in November. Duffy told senators on Jan. 15 that, with Trump, &#8220;we will usher in a golden age of travel."
On Jan. 20, Trump ordered a hiring freeze of federal civilian employees. In a Thursday post on X, formerly Twitter, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg <a href="https://x.com/PeteButtigieg/status/1885013865676562491">criticized </a>Trump's approach to aviation safety, saying, "One of his first acts was to fire and suspend some of the key personnel who helped keep our skies safe." 
The order, <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/hiring-freeze/">according </a>to the White House website, does not include "military personnel of the armed forces or to positions related to immigration enforcement, national security, or public safety."
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Image: Shutterstock

Trump Comments On American Airlines Crash: Here's What We Know, What He Suggests Is To Blame

NTSB Chair Says Have Not Found Flight Data Recorder Yet; NTSB Member Inman Says We Have Not Recovered Any Of The Black Boxes Yet; We Will Probably Have More Than One Black Box; Helicopter Equipped With Some Form Of Recording Device' Information From Faa Is Still Being Reviewed; We Have Not Reviewed Any Specific Reports About Controllers

Legal

NTSB Chair Says We Will Leave No Stone Unturned In Investigation Into Washington Plane Crash; I Briefed The President; NTSB Member Inman Says Our Intention Is To Have Preliminary Report Within 30 Days

All 64 passengers and crew members aboard an American Airlines regional jet have died after the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43328465/no-survivors-yet-to-plane-crash-near-reagan-national-airport-american-airlines-ceo-heads-to-washington">plane collided midair </a>with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on Wednesday night, officials confirmed Thursday. 
The crash, which sent both aircraft into the Potomac River, marks the deadliest air disaster on U.S. soil since 2001, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/30/aircraft-down-in-potomic-river-near-dca-airport.html">according </a>to CNBC.
Washington, D.C. Fire and EMS Chief John Donnelly said at least 28 bodies have been recovered so far—27 from the plane and one from the helicopter. 
"We are now at the point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation," said Donnely, as <a href="https://apnews.com/article/ronald-reagan-national-airport-crash-62adba7fb1f546b4cf1716e42b86482b">reported </a>by the Associated Press.  
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Officials said flight conditions were clear as the American Airlines jet was making a routine landing at Reagan National Airport. The cause of the collision is unclear at this time.&nbsp;
"On final approach into Reagan National it collided with a military aircraft on an otherwise normal approach," American Airlines Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) CEO Robert Isom said. "At this time we don't know why the military aircraft came into the path of the &#8230; aircraft."
The FAA announced that Reagan National Airport will reopen at 11 a.m. Thursday after flights were grounded <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43326442/takeoffs-landings-halted-at-reagan-washington-national-airport-after-jet-falls-in-potomac-river">following the crash</a>.  
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the appropriate agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation, are investigating the crash. 
"I would just say that everyone who flies in American skies expects that we fly safely," Duffy said, according to the AP. 
"That when you depart an airport, you get to your destination. That didn't happen last night and I know that President Trump, his administration, the FAA, the DOT, we will not rest until we have answers for the families and for the flying public. You should be assured that when you fly, you're safe," Duffy added.&nbsp;
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Image: Shutterstock

Movers

64 Killed In American Airlines Midair Collision Near D.C., Worst US Air Disaster Since 2001

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<li>NVDA</li>
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<li>INTC</li>
<li>AAPL</li>
<li>AMD</li>
<li>AAL</li>
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<li>BA</li>
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MSFT

NVDA

TSLA

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DC Fire Chief Says Switching From Rescue To Recovery Operation; Says There Are No Survivors

A PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while it was nearing the runway at Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) around 9 p.m. local time on Wednesday. The plane, with 60 passengers and four crew members onboard, fell into the Potomac River near the airport after the crash.
All takeoffs and landings were subsequently halted at the airport for the remainder of the evening.
Authorities held a news conference later and informed that the airport would be closed until at least 11 a.m. ET on Thursday.
Mayor of Washington DC, Muriel Bowser said in a statement that both aircraft are in the water. There are three people in the military helicopter, she said.
There are no updates on any survivors as of now. However, authorities also did not provide a death toll from the accident.
President Donald Trump on Thursday termed the air accident near Washington DC involving an American Airlines (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) plane and another army helicopter on Wednesday night a "bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented."
&#8220;The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time. It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn't the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn't the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. NOT GOOD!!!,&#8221; Trump said in a post on Truth Social. 
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said that PSA was operating Flight 5342 for American Airlines, and it had departed from Wichita, Kansas. United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that the helicopter involved in the accident was an Army UH-60 helicopter from Bravo Company, 12th aviation battalion out of Davison Army Airfield, Fort Belvoir during a training flight. Hegseth added that both the Army and the Department of Defense have launched an investigation into the accident. 
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said in a statement that it is cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board&#8217;s investigation into the accident. Isom said that he himself is departing to Washington DC.
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

No Survivors Yet In Plane Crash Near Reagan National Airport: American Airlines CEO Heads To Washington

Editor&#8217;s Note: This story has been updated with additional details.
A PSA Airlines Bombardier CRJ700 regional jet collided in midair with a Sikorsky H-60 helicopter while it was nearing the runway at Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) around 9 p.m. local time, The Federal Aviation Administration said on Wednesday, placing a pause on all takeoffs and landings from the airport. 
What Happened: The plane fell in the Potomac River near the airport after the crash, Washington DC&#8217;s Fire and Emergency Department said. Fireboats are on the scene, the department said, while adding that it will work together with the police department in a search and rescue operation.
There is no confirmed information on casualties at the time, the police department said. The Department also clarified that its helicopter was not involved in the incident and is currently assisting the rescue operations. 
The FAA said that PSA was operating Flight 5342 for American Airlines (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>), and it had departed from Wichita, Kansas. The National Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation into the accident, the agency added.
&#8220;All takeoffs and landings have been halted at DCA. Emergency personnel are responding to an aircraft incident on the airfield,&#8221; the airport said in a statement. 
American Airlines said that it aware of the accident and will provide more information as it becomes available.
The airline also confirmed that there were 60 passengers and four crew members on board the aircraft.
Image Via Shutterstock
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
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Takeoffs, Landings Halted At Reagan Washington National Airport After Jet Falls In Potomac River (UPDATED)

American Airlines Group Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) reported its fourth-quarter FY24 earnings along <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43159332/american-airlines-q4-earnings-beat-debt-milestone-lackluster-guidance-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">with a weak guidance</a>. The following are the comments of the analysts regarding the same.
Raymond James analyst Savanthi Syth reiterated an Outperform rating on the shares and lowered the price forecast <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AAL/analyst-ratings">from $24 to $23.</a>
This miss in the company&#8217;s first-quarter FY25 guidance was mainly due to the recent surge in fuel prices and the timing of year-over-year CASM-ex pressure, which is more concentrated in the first quarter due to the restoration of region-specific capacity, said the analyst.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43062173">Bank Of America: Delta, United To Lead Airline Industry In 2025</a>
Importantly, American is expected to finish 2025 with a favorable low-single-digit year-over-year CASM-ex trend, and its 1Q25/2025 revenue outlook, from this typically conservative management team, exceeded expectations.
The company&#8217;s 2025 FCF outlook of over $2 billion was also better than anticipated, according to the analyst, further supporting its deleveraging targets, which are progressing ahead of schedule.
American highlighted sequential increases in its corporate and agency market share and continues to anticipate a full recovery by the end of 2025, noted the analyst. Additionally, all new agreements with the company&#8217;s agency partners serving corporate clients have now been finalized.
American projected a 1Q25/2025 revenue growth of 3-5% and 4.5-7.5% year-over-year, respectively, which suggests an approximate 5% and 3.5-4.5% increase in RASM, opined the analyst.
Related Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43188381">Boeing Shares Drop Pre-Market As Labor Strikes Expected To Wipe $3.5B From Airplane Maker&#8217;s Q4 Cash Flow</a>
J.P. Morgan analyst Jamie Baker reiterated an Overweight rating on the shares and maintained the price forecast of $30.00.
The analyst disagrees with the equity market&#8217;s reaction to American&#8217;s results and guidance.
Looking at the broader picture, the analyst believes that a full-year capacity increase of around 2.5%, with a balanced domestic/international split, is promising for both the airline and the industry.
American&#8217;s labor and loyalty programs are in good shape, and its balance sheet repair is ahead of schedule. Free cash flow generation is strong, and while American faces a tough CASM challenge in the first quarter, it seems temporary and well-understood, noted the analyst.
The analyst notes American&#8217;s first-quarter forecast somewhat obscures the otherwise positive full-year guidance and balance sheet outlook.
Price Action: AAL shares are trading higher by 0.72% at $17.15 at the last check Friday.
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Photo via Shutterstock.

Analyst Color

Equities

Reiteration

American Airlines' 2025 Forecast Promising Despite Q1 Challenges, Say Analysts

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Industrials sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>UNP</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$1.4 million</td>
<td>101</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BAH</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
<td>$63.2K</td>
<td>213</td>
<td>1.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UPWK</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$15.00</td>
<td>$33.0K</td>
<td>597</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$17.00</td>
<td>$45.2K</td>
<td>3.2K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZUL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$1.50</td>
<td>$45.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/31/25</td>
<td>$34.00</td>
<td>$26.2K</td>
<td>65</td>
<td>765</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DAL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$127.8K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td>718</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/31/25</td>
<td>$480.00</td>
<td>$27.0K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td>526</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$36.0K</td>
<td>7.8K</td>
<td>332</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HON</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$129.7K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
<td>147</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• For UNP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNP#NYSE">UNP</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 238 day(s) on September 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 2500 contract(s) at a $220.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $1.4 million, with a price of $560.0 per contract. There were 101 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2501 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding BAH (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAH#NYSE">BAH</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 28 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 93 contract(s) at a $135.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $63.2K, with a price of $680.0 per contract. There were 213 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1694 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UPWK (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPWK#NASDAQ">UPWK</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 28 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 150 contract(s) at a $15.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 10 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.0K, with a price of $220.0 per contract. There were 597 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1113 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AAL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 56 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 481 contract(s) at a $17.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 30 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $45.2K, with a price of $94.0 per contract. There were 3278 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1106 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AZUL (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZUL#NYSE">AZUL</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 203 day(s) on August 15, 2025. This event was a transfer of 500 contract(s) at a $1.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 59 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $45.0K, with a price of $90.0 per contract. There were 1003 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1100 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For BE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BE#NYSE">BE</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 7 day(s) on January 31, 2025. This event was a transfer of 749 contract(s) at a $34.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 30 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.2K, with a price of $35.0 per contract. There were 65 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 765 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For DAL (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 28 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 600 contract(s) at a $67.50 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $127.8K, with a price of $213.0 per contract. There were 2341 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 718 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For DE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 7 day(s) on January 31, 2025. This event was a transfer of 54 contract(s) at a $480.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $27.0K, with a price of $500.0 per contract. There were 1429 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 526 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For BA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 147 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 50 contract(s) at a $200.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.0K, with a price of $721.0 per contract. There were 7874 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 332 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For HON (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HON#NASDAQ">HON</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 357 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 75 contract(s) at a $240.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $129.7K, with a price of $1730.0 per contract. There were 1988 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 147 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

AZUL

UPWK

10 Industrials Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

Raymond James analyst Savanthi Syth reiterates American Airlines Gr (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $24 to $23.

Raymond James Reiterates Outperform on American Airlines Gr, Lowers Price Target to $23

Wall Street's reaction to American Airlines' ($AAL) Q4 earnings numbers was reactionary at best, briefly halting the airline's long and steady clim...

American Airlines (AAL) Stock to Fly in 2025 Despite Wall St. Turbulence

Susquehanna analyst Christopher Stathoulopoulos maintained a Hold rating on American Airlines (AAL – Research Report) today and set a price target ...

American Airlines (AAL) Gets a Hold from Susquehanna

Susquehanna lowered the firm's price target on American Airlines (AAL) to $18 from $20 and keeps a Neutral rating on the shares. The firm updated t...

American Airlines price target lowered to $18 from $20 at Susquehanna

SA Charts: How did major U.S. airlines stack against each other in Q4?

A notable safety system had been shut off on a U.S. Army helicopter that crashed with an American Airlines (AAL) regional aircraft last week near W...

Safety system off in helicopter that crashed with American Air jet, Reuters says

The adoption of advanced technology and surging air travel demand are brightening the prospects for the airline industry. To analyze which airline stock is set to soar higher, let's compare American Airlines Group (AAL) and Alaska Air Group (ALK). Read on to find out… Air travel is becoming the preferred choice for customers globally, driven by its convenience, speed, and cost-effectiveness. Also, the availability of online booking platforms and mobile apps has made it easier for customers to search for and book flights, further contributing to the growth of the airline market. Besides, the global flight market is anticipated to reach $770 billion by 2029, <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/mmo/shared-mobility/flights/worldwide">exhibiting a CAGR of 4.4%</a>.
Additionally, the airline industry is evolving by adopting advanced technology and sustainable practices, with manufacturers and operators focusing more on environmental awareness and operational efficiency. Airlines are investing in next-gen aircraft that offer better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and increased passenger comfort.
Against this backdrop, let's compare two established airline stocks to analyze which airline stock is set to soar higher: American Airlines Group Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AAL/">AAL</a>) and Alaska Air Group, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ALK/">ALK</a>).
The Case for American Airlines Group Inc. Stock
Valued at $11.29 billion by market cap, American Airlines Group Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AAL/">AAL</a>) operates as a network air carrier. The company provides scheduled air transportation services for passengers and cargo. It operates a mainline fleet of 965 aircraft. 
AAL has gained 85.4% over the past six months to close the last trading session at $17.17.
In terms of the trailing-12-month CAPEX/Sales, AAL's 4.95% is 73.9% higher than the 2.85% industry average. Likewise, its 0.87x trailing-12-month asset turnover ratio is 11.1% higher than the industry average of 0.78x.
In the fiscal fourth quarter ending on December 31, 2024, AAL's total operating revenues increased 4.6% year-over-year, totaling $13.66 billion. The company reported an operating income of $1.13 billion, while its net income grew significantly from the prior-year quarter to $590 million. Its <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/eps.asp">EPS</a> grew considerably year-over-year to $0.84.
Street expects AAL's revenue for the fiscal first quarter (ending March 2025) to increase 4.4% year-over-year to $13.12 billion. In addition, it surpassed the EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters, which is promising.
AAL's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect strong prospects. It has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings assess stocks by 118 different factors, each with its own weighting.
AAL is ranked #7 out of 25 stocks in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/airlines/">Airlines</a> industry. It has a B grade for Value and Growth. To see AAL's Momentum, Sentiment, Quality, and Stability ratings, <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AAL/">click here</a>.
The Case for Alaska Air Group, Inc. stock
Valued at $9.35 billion by market cap, Alaska Air Group, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ALK/">ALK</a>) operates airlines. It operates through three segments: Mainline, Regional, and Horizon. The company offers scheduled air transportation services for passengers and cargo on Boeing jet aircraft.
ALK has gained 75.9% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $75.92.
In terms of the trailing-12-month gross profit margin, ALK's 22.78% is 28% lower than the 31.65% industry average. However, its 7.93% trailing-12-month levered FCF margin is 14.9% higher than the industry average of 6.90%.
ALK's total operating revenue for the second quarter that ended December 31, 2024, was reported at $3.53 billion. The company's net income and earnings per share came in at $71 million and $0.55, respectively.
Street expects ALK's revenue for the first quarter ending March 2025 to increase 44.2% year-over-year to $3.22 billion. However, the company's loss per share for the same quarter is expected to be $0.56. Moreover, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters.
ALK's mixed fundamentals are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall C rating, translating to a Neutral in our proprietary rating system.
ALK has a C grade in Value, Momentum, and Quality. It is ranked #17 in the same industry.
<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ALK/">Click here</a> for the additional POWR Ratings for ALK (Growth, Sentiment, and Stability).
American Airlines (AAL) vs. Alaska Air Group (ALK): Which Airline Stock Is Set to Soar Higher?
The airline industry is set for a period of transformation driven by advancements in technology, sustainability efforts, and evolving consumer demands. Leading airline companies, such as AAL and ALK, stand to capitalize on the optimistic industry outlook. However, AAL's higher profitability and promising near-term outlook favor it as the better stock pick.
Our research shows that the odds of success increase when one invests in stocks with an Overall Rating of Strong Buy or Buy. View all the top-rated stocks in the Airlines industry <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/airlines/">here</a>.
What To Do Next?
Get your hands on this special report with 3 low priced companies with tremendous upside potential even in today's volatile markets:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/3stocks/?formplacement=artbotad_3s">3 Stocks to DOUBLE This Year &gt;</a>

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AAL shares closed at $17.17 on Friday, up $0.11 (+0.64%). Year-to-date, AAL has declined -1.49%, versus a 2.51% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Nidhi Agarwal</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Nidhi-Agarwal_Headshot-3.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Nidhi is passionate about the capital market and wealth management, which led her to pursue a career as an investment analyst. She holds a bachelor's degree in finance and marketing and is pursuing the CFA program.

Her fundamental approach to analyzing stocks helps investors identify the best investment opportunities.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=nidhi-agarwal">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/aal-alk-american-airlines-aal-vs-alaska-air-group-alk-which-airline/>American Airlines (AAL) vs. Alaska Air Group (ALK): Which Airline Stock Is Set to Soar Higher?</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

American Airlines (AAL) vs. Alaska Air Group (ALK): Which Airline Stock Is Set to Soar Higher?

SkyWest: Room To Fly

CPI read: Airfares continue to climb amid strong travel demand, tighter industry capacity

Global travel is rising, and airline stocks are primed for a major rally. Therefore, to capitalize on this compelling opportunity, investors could consider adding three solid airline stocks, American Airlines Group (AAL), SkyWest (SKYW), and United Airlines Holdings (UAL), to their portfolios. Read more… As global demands surge, the airline industry Is showing strong potential driven by renewed consumer confidence and robust economic activity. This trend positions airline companies to capitalize on the growing leisure, business, and international travel appetite.
Considering the positive outlook of the industry, it might be considered wise for investors to invest in three fundamentally strong airline stocks, American Airlines Group Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AAL/">AAL</a>), SkyWest, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/SKYW/">SKYW</a>), and United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/UAL/">UAL</a>) for long-term growth.
The most important key factors for such a rebound in airline talks are improved route networks and expanded flight capacities. With a focus on optimizing schedules and increasing load factors, airlines are better positioned to meet the soaring demand.
Further, airline companies are doubling down on <a href="https://www.taconnections.com/resources/aviation-market-outlook-growth-and-transformation/">dynamic pricing and tailored travel experiences</a> to boost ancillary revenue and enhance customer satisfaction. Also, the global passenger numbers are projected to reach 9.7 billion in 2025, which surpasses the pre-pandemic levels.
The <a href="https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2024-releases/2024-12-10-01/">International Air Transport Association (IATA)</a> expects airline employment to grow to 3.3 million in 2025. Besides, the airline market is set to be <a href="https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/airlines-global-market-report">worth $598.81 billion in 2025</a>, growing at a CAGR of 8%. This shift is due to globalization, open sky agreements, economic fluctuation, strategic alliances in mergers, and shifting consumer preferences.
Given these encouraging trends, now let's look at the fundamentals of the three above-mentioned <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/airlines/">Airlines</a>, beginning with the third stock.
Stock #3: American Airlines Group Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AAL/">AAL</a>)
AAL operates as a network air carrier. The company provides scheduled air transportation services for passengers and cargo. It operates a mainline fleet of 965 aircraft. 
In terms of forward non-GAAP <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/price-earningsratio.asp">P/E</a>, AAL is trading at 6.87x, 66.1% lower than the industry average of 20.24x. Likewise, the stock's forward EV/Sales and Price/Sales multiples of 0.71 and 0.19 are 64.5% and 88.4% lower than their respective industry averages of 2.00 and 1.62.
AAL for the fourth quarter (ended December 31, 2024) reported total operating revenues of $13.66 billion, indicating a 4.6% growth from the prior-year quarter. The company's operating income, excluding net special items (non-GAAP), stood at $1.15 billion, reflecting an increase of 73.4% from the prior-year quarter's value.
Also, its net income excluding net special items came in at $609 million, and its EPS excluding net special items amounted to $0.86 per share, up 217.2% and 196.6% year-over-year, respectively.
The consensus revenue estimate of $15.28 billion for the fiscal second quarter (ending June 2025) represents a 6.6% increase year-over-year. The consensus EPS estimate of $1.41 for the same quarter indicates a 29% improvement year-over-year. The company has an excellent earnings surprise history; it surpassed the consensus EPS in three of the trailing four quarters.
AAL's stock has surged 66.4% over the past six months and 15.9% over the past three months to close the last trading session at $16.41.
AAL's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect this robust outlook. The stock has an overall rating of B, which equates to Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, each weighted to an optimal degree.
AAL has a B grade for Growth and Value. It is ranked #7 out of the 25 stocks in the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/airlines/">Airlines</a> industry. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AAL/">Click here</a> to see the additional ratings for AAL (Momentum, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality).
Stock #2: SkyWest, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/SKYW/">SKYW</a>)
SKYW operates a regional airline in the United States. The company operates through two segment, SkyWest Airlines and SWC; and SkyWest Leasing. It also leases regional jet aircraft and spare engines to third parties; and provision of on-demand charter, airport customer, and ground handling services. 
In terms of forward non-GAAP PEG, SKYW is trading at 0.09x, 94.9% lower than the industry average of 1.87x. Likewise, the stock's forward EV/EBITDA and Price/Book multiples of 6.60 and 1.51 are 44.9% and 53.5% lower than the industry averages of 12.00x and 3.24x, respectively.
For the fourth quarter of 2024, which ended on December 31, SKYW's total operating revenues increased 25.6% year-over-year to $944.40 million, while the operating income stood at $144.08 million, up 421.6% year-over-year. Its net income amounted to $97.38 billion, representing an increase of 455.9% from the last year's period. Also, the company's earnings per share for the quarter increased 457.1% year-over-year to $2.34.
Street expects SKYW's revenue for the fiscal first quarter (ending March 2025) to increase 2.9% year-over-year to $948.75 million. Its EPS for the same period is expected to register a 42.1% growth from the prior year, settling at $2.06. In addition, it surpassed the consensus revenue and EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, which is impressive.
Shares of SKYW have gained 85.7% over the past year and 51% over the past six months to close the last trading session at $110.16.
It's no surprise that SKYW has an overall rating of B, which equates to a Buy in our POWR Ratings system. It has a B grade for Growth, Sentiment, and Quality. Out of 25 stocks in the same B-rated industry, SKYW is ranked #4.
Beyond what is stated above, we've also rated SKYW for Value, Momentum, and Stability. Get all SKYW ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/SKYW/">here</a>.
Stock #1: United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/UAL/">UAL</a>)
UAL provides air transportation services internationally. The company transports people and cargo through its mainline and regional fleets. It also offers catering, ground handling, flight academy, and maintenance services for third parties. 
In terms of forward non-GAAP P/E, UAL is trading at 7.75x, which is 61.7% lower than the industry average of 20.24x. The stock's forward Price/Sales ratio of 0.56x is 65.8% below the industry average of 1.62x. Also, its forward Price/Cash Flow multiple of 3.75 compares to the industry average of 15.85x.
In the fiscal fourth quarter that ended on December 31, 2024, UAL's consolidated revenue increased 7.8% year-over-year to $14.69 billion. The company reported operating income of $1.50 billion, indicating a 50.6% growth from the prior-year quarter. Its adjusted net income came in at $1.09 billion, up 64.2% year-over-year, while its adjusted EPS grew 63% from the prior-year quarter to $3.26. Moreover, UAL's adjusted EBITDA rose 33.3% from the year-ago value to $2.34 billion.
Analysts expect UAL's revenue for the fourth quarter (ended January 2025) to increase 8.3% year-over-year to $13.58 billion, while its EPS for the same period is expected to remain flat from the prior year to $1.05. Moreover, it topped Street revenue and EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, which is excellent.
The stock has gained 149.2% over the past six months and 95.9% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $103.31.
UAL's positive prospects are reflected in its POWR Ratings. The stock has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system.
It also has an A grade for Growth and a B for Value. Within the same Airlines industry, it is ranked third. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/UAL/">Click here</a> to see UAL's ratings for Momentum, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality.
What To Do Next?
Get your hands on this special report with 3 low priced companies with tremendous upside potential even in today's volatile markets:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/3stocks/?formplacement=artbotad_3s">3 Stocks to DOUBLE This Year &gt;</a>

<hr />
UAL shares were trading at $104.01 per share on Wednesday afternoon, up $0.70 (+0.68%). Year-to-date, UAL has gained 7.12%, versus a 2.98% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: ShreyaRathi</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/0.jpeg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;"><a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=shreya-rathi">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/ual-aal-skyw-3-airline-stocks-ready-for-takeoff-as-travel-demand-soars/>3 Airline Stocks Ready for Takeoff as Travel Demand Soars</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

3 Airline Stocks Ready for Takeoff as Travel Demand Soars

Bullish option flow detected in American Airlines (AAL) with 57,464 calls trading, 1.0x expected, and implied vol increasing almost 4 points to 45....

American Airlines call volume above normal and directionally bullish

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