The Sky-High Divide $UAL $DAL

If you want to understand the state of the American consumer as we march into 2026, we’ve spotted a very clear picture.

Just look at the tarmac.

There is a widening chasm in this country between the "Haves" and the "Have-Nots," and it has created a radical bifurcation in the airline industry – which is truly a great proxy for the consumer at large. 

While budget/economy carriers are bleeding cash and fighting over the scraps of the price-sensitive traveler, two giants have essentially seceded from the pack: Delta Air Lines (DAL) and United Airlines (UAL).

For the last year, these two have traded in near-lockstep, both hitting 52-week highs as they corner the market on premium travel. 

But as Delta prepares to kick off earnings next week, we’re answering some critical questions:

Does it still hold a unique, "niche" edge in this high-stakes war for the wealthy? 

And is it enough to send the stock higher?

Here’s what we think…

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