Delta Air Lines Takes Aim at United, Sends a Clear Message

While Delta Air Lines has established itself as the most profitable and highest-rated carrier in the United States, its top competitor, United Airlines, is far bigger over the Pacific. It sounds like Delta is committed to changing that.

During a recent interview, Delta took direct aim at United as the airline's new president, Peter Carter, made it clear that Delta's future plans include expanding its reach in the Pacific.

Delta Lags Behind United

While Delta is the most profitable carrier in the United States, posting a net profit of more than $5 billion in 2025 compared to United's earnings of about $3.35 billion, United has been far bigger over the Pacific, and the numbers show it.

According to CNBC, Delta generated just $2.79 billion in revenue on trans-Pacific flights compared to United's $6.89 billion. It's a radical difference, and it shows just how much room Delta has to grow in that regard.

Now, as Delta looks to court premium passengers and offer more international routes, the company is taking aim at United and appears to be coming for the trans-Pacific crown.

Delta's Pacific Push

During a recent interview with CNBC during the International Air Transport Association's annual meeting, Carter seemingly took direct aim at United as he made it clear that Delta wants to become "the leading U.S. carrier" in the region.

"We want to become stronger, better, faster in the trans-Pacific, and we want to become the leading U.S. carrier" across the Pacific, Carter told CNBC. "Ultimately … the real goal is to become the leading global carrier, which is a pretty audacious goal."

Carter told the outlet that some of the growth will come from the airline's joint venture with Korean Air, which is merging with Asiana Airlines. Regardless, he made it clear that the company will continue to focus its growth internationally, and that includes a major emphasis on the Pacific.

"Really, when we think about the future, it's all about international," Carter said.

We'll have to see whether or not Delta really can unseat United as the Pacific's top carrier, but it's pretty clear that's the Atlanta-based carrier's ultimate goal.

"We always have to be hungry to win, and I say that because I know United is out there competing against us and replicating the playbook a little bit," he said. "Bring 'em on."

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 6:21 AM.