Travel Stocks Post Mixed Q1: Hilton Misses Estimates, Delta Shares Surge on Revenue Beat

Consumer discretionary travel and vacation providers posted mixed first-quarter results, with aggregate revenues exceeding analyst forecasts by 1.6% but next-quarter guidance trailing estimates by 9.3%. The group’s shares have averaged an 11.8% gain since the reporting period ended. Hilton Worldwide (NYSE:HLT) reported revenue of $2.94 billion, up 9% year-over-year but falling 1.4% short of consensus, making it the sector’s worst performer against expectations. Its stock declined 1.3% to $328.13. Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) outperformed with $15.85 billion in revenue, a 12.9% increase that beat estimates by 4%, though it missed on earnings per share; shares surged 25.8% to $82.55. Viking (NYSE:VIK) grew revenue 17.5% to $1.05 billion, the fastest among peers, and its stock rose 12%. Sabre (NASDAQ:SABR) and Marriott Vacations (NYSE:VAC) also exceeded revenue forecasts but faced mixed profit results, with shares moving -3.6% and +20.9% respectively. The sector continues to navigate macroeconomic uncertainty and softening demand signals, though post-pandemic travel trends provided some support during the quarter.