Delta Air Lines is distributing $76.1 million in profit-sharing to its Utah-based employees, benefiting the local economy. The Valentines Day payout fosters economic growth through increased consumer spending and business activity.
Salt Lake City, Utah - February 14, 2025
Delta Air Lines is making waves in Utah's local economy with a substantial $76.1 million profit-sharing payout to its 6,300 employees based in the state. The payout, equivalent to 10% of each employee’s annual salary (roughly five weeks of pay), is part of the airline’s company-wide $1.4 billion profit-sharing program. Once again, Delta’s generous distribution surpasses the combined payouts of its competitors, American Airlines and United Airlines, cementing its position as a leader in employee satisfaction within the airline industry.
The infusion of $76.1 million into the wallets of Delta's Utah employees is poised to stimulate various sectors across the state. Local businesses, from retail to hospitality, can anticipate increased consumer spending as employees utilize their bonuses, thereby fostering economic growth within their communities. With thousands of Delta employees receiving significant additional income, spending on housing, dining, and entertainment is expected to rise, benefiting small businesses and large retailers alike.
Furthermore, this influx of capital supports broader economic stability by increasing demand for goods and services, generating additional tax revenue, and potentially creating more job opportunities in sectors that experience a surge in customer activity. Historically, profit-sharing distributions of this scale have had a multiplier effect on local economies, as employees reinvest their earnings back into their communities.
Delta's presence in Utah is substantial, serving three airports: Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC), St. George Regional Airport (SGU), and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). At SLC, Delta operates 253 peak-day flights to 95 nonstop destinations, offering over 32,000 seats daily. In 2023, Delta transported 18 million passengers to and from Utah, reinforcing its role as a key player in the state's transportation infrastructure.
Salt Lake City International Airport continues to be a critical hub for Delta, with ongoing investments in operational enhancements and passenger experience improvements. The airline’s strong presence not only ensures convenient air travel for Utah residents but also solidifies Salt Lake City’s position as a growing business and tourism hub. Increased connectivity from Delta's operations in the state supports Utah’s economic growth by attracting business travelers, convention attendees, and leisure tourists, all of whom contribute to the state’s hospitality and service industries.
This year marks the eighth time Delta has paid out over $1 billion in profit-sharing (2014-2019, 2023). Since initiating profit sharing in 2007, Delta has consistently demonstrated its dedication to its workforce. Over the past decade, employees have received more than a year’s worth of extra pay through this program.
The tradition of profit-sharing at Delta has become a hallmark of the company’s employee-first philosophy. Unlike stock buybacks or executive bonuses, Delta's approach ensures that a significant portion of its profits goes directly to the people who contribute to the company’s success. This philosophy has fostered a highly engaged workforce and contributed to Delta’s reputation as a leader in employee satisfaction within the airline industry.
“Every day, Delta people prove themselves to be difference makers in this industry,” said Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian. “I’m proud to recognize their unmatched professionalism, teamwork and dedication to excellence with one of our strongest profit sharing years in Delta’s history.”
“This year’s profit sharing payout is a testament to the work of Delta people,” said Chief People Officer Allison Ausband. “They recognize that our commitment to safety and world-class service builds trust with our customers – who in turn reward Delta with their loyalty.”
Delta's commitment to its employees and the Utah community is evident through its substantial profit-sharing program and extensive operations within the state. As the airline continues to grow and invest in Utah, the economic benefits are expected to ripple throughout the region, supporting local businesses and contributing to the overall prosperity of the state.
Looking ahead, Delta’s continuous investment in the Utah market is expected to drive even greater economic momentum. The airline’s growing fleet and expanding network of routes are critical to both the state’s transportation infrastructure and its broader economic development.
With plans to further enhance passenger experience at Salt Lake City International Airport and a commitment to supporting its local employees, Delta’s footprint in Utah will continue to grow, bringing long-term economic benefits to both the community and the airline’s workforce.
For more information, please visit Delta News Hub.