Which airline stocks are worth trying? With time running out, here are the TOP 6 true picks for 2025

If you’re considering investing in airline stocks this year because you see the travel industry about to explode, the good news is that foreign investors are recommending familiar but high-quality names: Delta, United, Alaska, Southwest, and American Airlines Group. All of these have stable operational models, top-tier pricing strategies, and even though the market can be volatile at times, they still hold attractive value. And in Thailand, there are also genuine airline stocks to watch. Let’s check out the 6 main stocks that could be your investment targets in 2025.

Top 6 Airline Stocks to Watch in 2025

This section will clearly explore everything from local Thai airlines to major international giants.

Local Airline Stocks to Follow in 2025

These two are Thailand’s stalwarts. Let’s see which one suits you best.

1. Thai Airways (THAI) - Experience Leader

Source: set.or.th

This is the mother company of Thai Airways, founded in 1959, and still operating both domestic and international routes today, carrying passengers and cargo.

Importantly, Thai Airways just emerged from debt restructuring in mid-2025. Currently, it flies to over 60 destinations worldwide. As of July 2025, the trading volume of this airline’s stock was approximately 3.32 million baht, with a market capitalization of around 6.2 billion baht.

Why investors are watching:

• Despite past crises, government support for debt restructuring has strengthened its financial position.
• It is beginning to recover from the tourism rebound after COVID-19.
• If passenger numbers continue to grow, this airline has a solid foundation for strong growth.

2. Bangkok Airways (BA) - Boutique Class of Asia

Source: set.or.th

Known as the “Boutique Airline of Asia,” founded in 1968. Interestingly, this company not only operates an airline but also owns and manages airports in tourist hotspots like Koh Samui, creating additional revenue streams and regional flight connections.

As of July 2025, BA trades at about 15.10 baht, with a market value between 65 and 70 billion baht, and earnings per share (EPS) of 0.80 baht.

Reasons analysts see it positively:

• Airport ownership helps generate additional income and profit margins.
• The company consistently profits and has strong assets, with total assets around 1.63 billion USD.
• As regional tourism continues to grow, BA is well-positioned to benefit early.

( International Airline Stocks with High Confidence in 2025

Next are four major international players that analysts are closely watching.

Source: finance.yahoo.com

)# 1. Delta Air Lines (DAL) - Stable Giant

Delta Air Lines is a US airline with a history spanning over a century. It operates a fleet of more than 1,250 aircraft and also handles air cargo. Recently, Delta launched a direct route from Seattle to Taiwan to access the Asian market directly.

As of mid-2025, Delta’s market cap was about $36.3 billion, trading at $56.29. Year-to-date (YTD), it’s down by -6.96%. However, most analysts see this as a buy-worthy stock, with a 1-year target price of $64.37.

In Q2 2025, Delta reported revenue of $16.6 billion and operating income of $2.1 billion. Its tiered pricing strategy attracts travelers across all levels, expanding returns. With healthy cash flow and a faster recovery from business travel, Delta is well-positioned to increase profits in the second half of the year.

2. United Airlines Holdings ###UAL( - Long-Haul Specialist

United Airlines is a US carrier that primarily earns from international routes, focusing more on long-haul flights than domestic ones. After recovering from COVID-19, United decided to purchase new aircraft to modernize its aging fleet. The goal is to improve profitability and encourage passengers to pay more for a better experience, a strategy expected to support long-term profits.

In 2025, United trades at $92.25, with a market cap of $30.3 billion. Despite a YTD decline of -4.99%, it still receives a “buy” recommendation. In Q2, United reported revenue of $15.2 billion and EPS of $3.87. Driven by increasing international travel and premium travel demand, its 1-year target is $102.24, indicating an approximately 11% upside from current prices.

)# 3. Southwest Airlines (LUV) - Domestic Market Leader

Southwest Airlines focuses on the US domestic market, the largest in the world. It operates over 700 aircraft, designed as a low-cost carrier emphasizing short routes and leisure travel, while striving to cut costs to maintain a competitive edge.

In 2025, LUV trades at $36.51, with a market cap of $21.9 billion, and a YTD increase of +8.60%. Although profits have increased somewhat, analysts still recommend “hold” due to concerns over rising labor costs, fluctuating fuel prices, aging fleet, and weaker revenue growth compared to competitors. Its 1-year price target is $30.97, signaling potential downside risk, so investors should be cautious.

4. American Airlines (AAL) - Hungry Giant

American Airlines is not only the largest airline in the US but also the biggest in the world, operating over 6,800 flights daily to nearly 350 destinations across 48 countries.

In 2025, AAL stock is at $12.51, with a market cap of $8.22 billion, and YTD down by -28.23%, making it one of the worst performers in the group. However, analysts still recommend buying, seeing potential for a rebound if the company controls costs better and boosts revenue from its frequent flyer programs. Its 1-year target is $13.70. While passenger demand remains steady, American Airlines faces significant profit pressures. Long-term recovery is possible but depends on management’s ability to restructure effectively.

Overall Summary

The momentum of global travel remains strong into 2025, supported by post-COVID travel demand, major holiday weeks like Christmas, and the return of international routes with good atmospheres. This has made airline stocks attractive again to investors.

Analysts and investors are increasingly optimistic, driven by overall travel trends or by each company’s unique strategies, such as replacing fleets with new models, expanding frequent flyer programs, and improving fuel efficiency.

It’s expected that airlines will report stellar financial results early in 2026, reflecting full passenger loads and higher profit margins.

For those seeking long-term growth or speculative gains from Q4 earnings reports due in January-February, airline stocks are very promising. Whether flying domestically or internationally, each has its own potential and strategic approach. Whether you’re an investor seeking stability or a trader chasing momentum, these airline stocks offer a positive outlook on a sector that is recovering and strategically poised for growth in the coming years.