Delta Airlines Joins United Airlines and American Airlines Under Greater Scrutiny: How the Emergency Landing of Delta Flight 2801 Might Affect Tourism from Canada, the UK, and China
The emergency landing of Delta Flight 2801 due to a mechanical issue has placed Delta Airlines, alongside United and American Airlines, under increased scrutiny. This incident raises significant concerns about flight safety among international travelers, particularly from key markets like Canada, the UK, and China, potentially impacting tourism to the US. The article explores how airlines and the hospitality sector must respond to these safety concerns to restore trust and maintain international travel flows.
Booking Holdings Stock Fell 6% This Week. Here’s What’s Driving the Pullback
Booking Holdings (BKNG) stock dropped 6.1% this week due to regulatory concerns in Italy regarding its Preferred Partner programs and questions about travel growth after a strong 2025. Investors are also factoring in recent insider selling headlines as Q1 earnings approach. Despite positive product news like Booking.com's integration with Claude and OpenTable's acquisition of Libro, the market is pricing in increased regulatory risk and normalizing travel growth, leading to a lower forward earnings multiple for the company.
Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky Decreases Stake in United Airlines Holdings Inc $UAL
The Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky significantly reduced its stake in United Airlines Holdings Inc (UAL) by 11.4% in the fourth quarter, selling 36,510 shares to hold 282,583 shares valued at approximately $31.6 million. Despite this reduction, United Airlines reported strong Q1 earnings, beating analyst estimates with $1.19 EPS and $14.61 billion in revenue, and analysts maintain a "Buy" rating with an average price target of $132.94. However, the company faces near-term challenges including cost pressures from rising fuel prices, which led management to trim full-year guidance, and ongoing regulatory uncertainties regarding potential mergers.
Elevated Financial Group LLC Purchases New Holdings in Delta Air Lines, Inc. $DAL
Elevated Financial Group LLC has acquired new shares in Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL) during the fourth quarter, purchasing 17,548 shares valued at approximately $1.22 million. Several other institutions also increased their holdings, contributing to institutional ownership of about 69.93%. Despite significant insider selling, Delta exceeded Q1 earnings estimates, reported increased revenue, and announced a quarterly dividend, maintaining a consensus "Moderate Buy" rating.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian sparks backlash after revealing what’s really driving sky-high ticket prices
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian is facing criticism after suggesting the airline might not lower ticket prices even if fuel costs decline, aiming to boost margins. This follows a period of rising airfares due to increased jet fuel costs caused by the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has disrupted global oil supplies. Travelers are expressing anger online, accusing airlines of price gouging, while other carriers like United are also raising fares significantly and plan to keep them elevated.
Is Southwest Airlines (LUV) Share Pullback Creating A Fresh Valuation Opportunity?
This article analyzes Southwest Airlines (LUV) valuation following a recent share pullback. Using two approaches, Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) suggests the stock is significantly undervalued by 63.5% at around US$39.45, with an intrinsic value of $108.13 per share. The Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio, however, indicates the stock is "about right" given its P/E of 23.6x compared to a fair ratio of 24.0x. The article encourages investors to consider different "Narratives" (bullish and bearish cases) to form their own valuation based on various assumptions.
Delta Stock Fell 4% This Week as Fuel Costs Hit Airline Margins. Can It Reach $106 by 2027?
Delta Air Lines (DAL) stock dropped 3.9% this week due to investor concerns over rising jet fuel costs impacting airline margins. Despite strong travel demand and record Q1 revenue, increased adjusted fuel expenses caused caution. A valuation model projects a target price of $106 by 2027, implying a 54.8% upside, but this hinges on stabilized fuel costs and continued strong demand.
Coca-Cola Stock Is Up 11% in 2026: Here’s What Could Drive KO Next
Coca-Cola's stock has risen 11% in 2026, demonstrating resilience and attracting investors with its steady cash flow and dividends. The company reported 2025 revenue growth and expects 4% to 5% organic revenue growth in 2026, with Q1 earnings being the next major catalyst. Despite a modest expected annualized return of 4.5% from its current valuation, KO is seen as a stable investment due to its strong brands, global distribution, and consistent dividend increases.
3M Is Down 19% From Its Peak. The Transformation Underway Could Change That by 2030
3M stock has dropped 19% from its March 2026 peak, leading to investor debate about whether the company's operational overhaul can drive future growth despite recent weak top-line performance. While Q1 2026 earnings beat expectations, organic sales growth lagged, prompting concerns about revenue catching up with cost-cutting measures. However, expansions in data center technology and new product launches, along with factory footprint reductions and automation investments, are expected to support a target price of around $195 by 2030, suggesting potential for positive returns.
Munich Reinsurance Co Stock Corp in Munich Has $17.43 Million Stake in Delta Air Lines, Inc. $DAL
Munich Reinsurance Co Stock Corp in Munich increased its stake in Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) by 9.9% in Q4, bringing its total holdings to 251,350 shares valued at approximately $17.43 million. Delta Air Lines recently announced a quarterly dividend and exceeded Q1 earnings and revenue estimates. Despite some negative sentiment regarding fuel costs and insider selling, analysts generally maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for DAL with an average price target of $79.10.
Virtus Wealth Solutions LLC Invests $2.91 Million in United Airlines Holdings Inc $UAL
Virtus Wealth Solutions LLC has invested $2.91 million in United Airlines Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:UAL), acquiring 26,005 shares in the fourth quarter, making it their 25th-largest holding. This comes as United Airlines reported stronger-than-expected Q1 earnings, though management warned about rising fuel costs and capacity cuts impacting future margins. The stock currently holds a consensus "Buy" rating from analysts, with various firms recently raising their price targets for UAL.
Beta Bionics, Inc. (NASDAQ:BBNX) Given Average Rating of "Moderate Buy" by Analysts
Beta Bionics, Inc. (NASDAQ:BBNX) has received an average rating of "Moderate Buy" from twelve analysts, with an average one-year price target of $22.00. Despite beating Q1 EPS estimates, the company faces high volatility and a negative net margin. Institutional investors have recently adjusted their positions in the stock.
Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL) Given Consensus Recommendation of "Moderate Buy" by Analysts
Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) has received a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts, with an average 12-month price target of $79.10. The company reported strong Q1 earnings, beating estimates with EPS of $0.64 and revenue of $14.20 billion, and declared a quarterly dividend of $0.1875. However, the stock faces challenges from insider selling, rising jet-fuel costs, and potential route disruptions.
United Airlines Holdings Inc. stock underperforms Friday when compared to competitors despite daily gains
United Airlines Holdings Inc. (UAL) stock rose 1.92% on Friday, ending a four-day losing streak. Despite this gain, the stock underperformed its competitors amidst a mixed trading session for the broader market, with the S&P 500 Index rising and the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling.
AAL Cuts Outlook, But What It Signals For JETS ETF May Matter More
American Airlines (AAL) has reduced its 2026 earnings forecast, prompting investors to scrutinize the U.S. Global Jets ETF (JETS) which holds a concentrated portfolio of airline stocks. The shift in outlook is primarily due to rising jet fuel costs exacerbated by geopolitical instability, rather than a decline in demand, as evidenced by American Airlines' robust first-quarter revenues and second-quarter projections. This situation highlights the tension between increasing fuel expenses and the airlines' strategic focus on capacity management to maintain pricing power and profitability, making JETS a high-beta investment sensitive to both energy costs and travel demand.
MRO Americas: AAR targets parts sourcing with AI-powered Airvoyant platform
AAR Corp has launched Airvoyant, an AI-powered aviation procurement platform, at MRO Americas to streamline aircraft parts sourcing for airlines and MRO providers. The platform, built on AWS and integrated with Aeroxchange and ERP systems, uses AI to analyze supplier quotes and provide purchase recommendations, aiming to reduce manual processes and improve efficiency. Major airlines like Delta, Air Canada, Air Europa, and Virgin Atlantic are collaborating as launch partners and advisors.
Chevron CEO Expects Air Travel To 'Get Worse' Over The Next Few Weeks As Hormuz Crisis Pushes Fuel Costs Higher
Chevron CEO Mike Wirth predicts a worsening situation for air travel in the coming weeks due to the Hormuz crisis, leading to higher fuel costs and reduced flight availability. He notes that the jet fuel market is tightening, particularly in Europe and Asia, and North American jet fuel prices have surged over 80% year-on-year. Wirth also highlighted that U.S. airlines are relatively better off than their European counterparts as the U.S. produces its own jet fuel.
SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ:SKYW) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript
SkyWest, Inc. reported Q1 2026 net income of $102 million, or $2.50 per diluted share, surpassing expectations. The company highlighted increased production, fleet utilization, and strategic initiatives, including the launch of the CRJ450 with United and ongoing E175 deliveries. SkyWest aims for continued profitability in 2026, driven by fleet flexibility, debt reduction, and a strong balance sheet despite anticipated elevated fuel costs.
SkyWest Results Top Estimates in Q1 Earnings, Revenues Increase Y/Y
SkyWest, Inc. (SKYW) reported strong first-quarter 2026 results, surpassing Zacks Consensus Estimates for both earnings and revenues. The company's earnings per share were $2.21, and revenues reached $1.01 billion, showing a 6.8% year-over-year increase. SkyWest also announced plans to convert CRJ200 aircraft to CRJ450s and secure additional E175 aircraft for future growth.
Caprock Group LLC Buys 26,527 Shares of Delta Air Lines, Inc. $DAL
Caprock Group LLC significantly increased its stake in Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) by 130.8% during the fourth quarter, acquiring an additional 26,527 shares and bringing its total holdings to $3,248,000. Other institutional investors like AlphaQuest LLC and Accredited Wealth Management LLC also boosted their positions. Wall Street analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating for Delta, with a consensus price target of $79.10, although some recent insider selling has been noted.
United Airlines Holdings Inc $UAL Shares Bought by Caprock Group LLC
Caprock Group LLC increased its stake in United Airlines Holdings Inc ($UAL) by 49.4% in the fourth quarter, acquiring an additional 13,205 shares, bringing its total to 39,921 shares valued at approximately $4.46 million. Despite United Airlines beating Q1 revenue and EPS estimates, the company lowered its full-year guidance due to a jet fuel spike and hinted at potential fare increases and capacity cuts. Analysts have adjusted their price targets for UAL, with an average target of $132.71.
American Airlines CEO calls United merger 'a non-starter': 'No way to view that as anything but anti-competitive'
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom dismissed the rumored merger with United as "anti-competitive" and "a non-starter," citing negative impacts on customers and his company. This comes after high-profile rejections from former President Donald Trump and bipartisan legislators, despite ongoing discussions about industry consolidation driven by rising fuel costs due to the Iran war. Such a merger would face significant antitrust hurdles, as the combined entity would control nearly 40% of U.S. domestic capacity.
United Airlines Holdings Inc. stock outperforms competitors on strong trading day
United Airlines Holdings Inc. (UAL) stock saw a strong performance, rising 2.22% to $49.07, surpassing both its competitors and the broader market. Despite this daily gain, the stock remains below its 52-week high, and its year-to-date performance is still negative, underperforming the Dow and S&P 500.
Confirmed: Boeing 777X To Enter Service In 2027 After 7-Year & $15 Billion Delay
Boeing has confirmed that its 777-9 aircraft is on track for its first delivery in 2027, seven years later than its original target and after incurring $15 billion in charges. This confirmation comes as the program makes progress in certification, with Lufthansa set to be the launch customer. Despite the positive update, the aircraft faces challenges including the need to sell roughly 300 units to recover development costs and potential rework required for early-build aircraft.
Earnings call transcript: SkyWest Q1 2026 beats earnings expectations
SkyWest Inc. reported strong Q1 2026 earnings, with EPS of $2.50 against an expected $2.17 and revenue of $1.01 billion, exceeding the forecast. The company's stock rose by 1.48% in after-hours trading, reflecting investor confidence in its fleet expansion, new product initiatives like the CRJ-450, and strategic growth. Despite anticipated challenges from elevated fuel costs and supply chain disruptions, SkyWest maintains a positive outlook, projecting continued EPS growth and a strong financial position for 2026 and beyond.
Delta Air Lines declares quarterly dividend of $0.1875 per share
Delta Air Lines announced a quarterly dividend of $0.1875 per share, payable June 4, 2026, to shareholders of record as of May 14, 2026. The airline has demonstrated a commitment to shareholder returns, having raised its dividend for three consecutive years with a 25% growth over the past year. This announcement comes amidst discussions of increased jet fuel costs due to geopolitical conflicts and varying analyst outlooks on airline stocks.
NextEra Earnings: FP&L and NEER Positioned Well for Accelerating Data Center Demand
NextEra Energy reported strong first-quarter operating earnings, driven by growth in both FP&L and NextEra Energy Resources (NEER). The company is on track to meet its financial targets, affirming its $86 fair value estimate and narrow moat rating. Management expects significant growth from data center demand, with FPL reporting long-term interest and NEER targeting substantial new capacity additions by 2035.
AAL Cuts Outlook, What It Signals For JETS ETF May Matter More - U.S. Global Jets ETF (ARCA:JETS)
American Airlines has revised its earnings outlook downwards due to rising jet fuel costs, despite strong demand for travel. This development significantly impacts the U.S. Global Jets ETF (JETS), highlighting the ETF's sensitivity to fuel prices and capacity management strategies within the airline industry. While increased fuel costs present a near-term challenge, the industry's focus on capacity discipline and resilient demand could lead to higher fares and potentially stabilize earnings for airlines included in the JETS ETF.
United Airlines Earnings: Premium Segment Should Help Weather Fuel Price Shock
Morningstar has slightly decreased its fair value estimate for United Airlines stock to $95 per share from $98, despite the airline's premium customer segments being expected to help weather the impact of rising fuel prices. The airline reported increased revenue and operating profit in the first quarter of 2026, and its stable of less price-sensitive customers for premium seats and business bookings is anticipated to mitigate the effect of fare increases. United has also prudently decided to pare its prior capacity growth in response to the fuel price shock.
United CEO Scott Kirby Calls Spirit's Business Model 'Fundamentally Flawed,' But What Do Prediction Markets Say?
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby publicly criticized Spirit Aviation Holdings' business model as "fundamentally flawed" during his company's Q1 earnings call, arguing against a federal bailout for the discount carrier. Despite Kirby's objections and similar sentiments from Delta's CEO, prediction markets on Kalshi and Polymarket suggest a high probability (64% and 56% respectively) that the Trump administration will provide Spirit with a financing package, potentially giving the government a significant equity stake. Kirby's stance is motivated by concerns that a government-subsidized Spirit could distort pricing on domestic routes, especially given United's own recent challenges with surging jet fuel costs.
Southwest Airlines Q1 Earnings Meet Estimates, Revenue Beat
Southwest Airlines (LUV) reported Q1 2026 earnings per share of 45 cents, meeting estimates, while revenue of $7.24 billion beat expectations. The quarter saw significant improvements in profitability and cash generation due to strong demand for new product offerings and effective cost management, despite higher fuel costs. The company also provided an outlook for Q2 2026, targeting higher unit revenue and controlled costs.
CSX Q1 Earnings Beat Estimates, Revenues Lag, 2026 View Raised
CSX Corporation reported a mixed first quarter of 2026, with earnings per share of 43 cents surpassing estimates by 26% year-over-year, while total revenues of $3.48 billion missed expectations. The company also raised its 2026 guidance, now expecting mid-single-digit revenue growth and an operating margin expansion toward the higher end of the 200-300 basis point range. This positive outlook signals confidence in future performance despite the revenue miss.
Financial Markets Morning Commentary
This morning commentary discusses minor movements in economic 10-year futures, yields, and S&P futures, despite increased vessel seizures in the Strait of Hormuz by Iran and interceptions by the US. The article details economic news including initial jobless claims, Tesla's Q1 revenue, and airline profit warnings due to high jet fuel costs, alongside geopolitical updates on the Strait of Hormuz, the US interception of Iranian oil tankers, and Russian wealth increases. Energy markets show mixed results for WTI and Brent crude, and metals markets react to geopolitical tensions.
United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript
United Airlines (NASDAQ: UAL) reported strong Q1 2026 results despite challenges like elevated fuel prices and geopolitical disruptions, showcasing structural improvements in the airline and industry. The company is focused on recovering 100% of increased fuel costs, targeting double-digit pretax margins by 2027 through capacity adjustments and brand loyalty. United also highlighted new commercial initiatives, fleet enhancements, and MileagePlus program updates aimed at differentiating its service and increasing revenue.
American Airlines cuts 2026 earnings projections after surge in jet fuel
American Airlines has revised its 2026 earnings forecast downwards due to a significant increase in jet fuel costs. The company now expects an adjusted loss of 40 cents per share to earnings of $1.10 per share, a decrease from its earlier projection of $1.70 to $2.70 per share in January. Despite a $4 billion rise in fuel costs, the airline reported record revenue in the first quarter of 2026 and expects another record in the second quarter.
We Backed Archer Aviation Over Joby Aviation a Year Ago. Here’s Why We Were Wrong.
A year ago, 24/7 Wall St. favored Archer Aviation (ACHR) over Joby Aviation (JOBY) as the better eVTOL investment, based on Archer's outsourced model and certification progress. However, Joby has since outperformed Archer, driven by its acquisition of Blade and subsequent commercial revenue generation, contrasting with Archer's focus on certification milestones without immediate revenue. The market ultimately prioritized Joby's tangible commercial traction and paying customers over Archer's paperwork and future-oriented achievements.
Analysts Offer Insights on Industrial Goods Companies: Zurn Water Solutions (ZWS), United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and Grupo Aeromexico, S.A.B. de C.V. Unsponsored ADR (AERO)
Analysts from KeyBanc and Barclays have provided ratings for several industrial goods companies. Zurn Water Solutions (ZWS) received a Hold rating from KeyBanc's Jeffrey Hammond, while United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and Grupo Aeromexico (AERO) both received Buy ratings from Barclays analysts Brandon Oglenski and Pablo Monsivais, respectively. The article details analyst consensus, price targets, and potential upsides for each stock.
American Airlines and Alaska Air explore partnerships options - report (AAL:NASDAQ)
American Airlines (AAL) and Alaska Air Group (ALK) are reportedly in discussions to explore potential revenue-sharing agreements and other strategic partnerships. This move comes as airlines look to expand their scale in response to increasing operational costs and competitive pressures. The talks specifically include the possibility of integrating Alaska into American's existing joint venture framework.
Allegiant Travel (ALGT) Expected to Announce Earnings on Thursday
Allegiant Travel (ALGT) is anticipated to release its Q1 2026 earnings after market close on Thursday, April 30th. Analysts project earnings of $3.29 per share and revenue of $698.0570 million. The article also provides details on the company's stock performance, recent insider transactions, institutional holdings, and analyst ratings, with a consensus "Hold" rating and an average target price of $97.91.
Southwest Airlines Overhaul Lifts Earnings While Valuation Signals Stay Stretched
Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV) has demonstrated a positive shift in its financial performance, returning to positive earnings in Q1 2026 after implementing significant business model overhauls, including assigned seating, new bag fees, and a revamped loyalty program. Despite these improvements and being named the Best U.S. Airline of 2025, the stock's valuation is signaled as stretched, trading at a significant premium to its estimated fair value. Though recent share price momentum shows a cooling trend, the key for investors will be monitoring the durability of these earnings and how customer response and competitive positioning evolve.
Alibaba’s Qwen AI Turns Flight Bookings Into Real Transactions For Investors
Alibaba's Qwen AI agent now facilitates direct flight bookings with China Eastern Airlines via natural-language chat, marking its first major commercial deployment in the travel sector. This initiative integrates AI into real-world transactions, providing investors with a tangible measure of its commercial application beyond e-commerce and cloud services. The success of this integration could lead to broader agent-based applications across Alibaba's ecosystem, but it also carries execution and competitive risks.
Wall Street Analysts Are Bullish on Top Industrial Goods Picks
Wall Street analysts are expressing bullish sentiments on top industrial goods companies, specifically United Airlines Holdings (UAL) and RTX (RTX). Jefferies maintained a Buy rating for UAL with a $118 price target, while TD Cowen maintained a Buy rating for RTX with a $225 price target. Both companies hold a consensus analyst rating of "Strong Buy" or "Moderate Buy" with significant upside potential.
Credit acceptance (NASDAQ:CACC): Jill Foss Watson sells $5.09m in shares
Jill Foss Watson, a ten percent owner of Credit Acceptance Corp (NASDAQ:CACC), sold 9,450 shares worth approximately $5.09 million on April 21, 2026. Following these transactions, Watson indirectly holds 92,107 shares. The stock is currently trading near its 52-week high, and the company recently surpassed EPS expectations for Q4 2025.
Southwest Air drops as US airlines contend with soaring fuel
Southwest Airlines Co. reported adjusted quarterly profit and revenue below Wall Street expectations due to rising fuel costs, a challenge faced by other US carriers. The airline declined to update its full-year profit guidance, emphasizing the need for lower fuel prices and stronger revenue. Southwest's stock fell 3.8% and closed at $39.35, and it forecasts second-quarter adjusted EPS of 35 to 65 cents, below analyst estimates.
United Airlines Holdings Inc (UAL) Shares Fall 5.6% -- What GF S
Shares of United Airlines Holdings Inc (UAL) fell 5.6% to $91.71 on April 22, 2026. This price is significantly above its GF Value™ of $67.84, indicating the stock is 35.2% overvalued. Insiders have also sold $2.0 million worth of shares in the last three months, with no buying activity reported, suggesting a potential lack of confidence in the stock's future performance.
Southwest forecasts second-quarter profit below estimates as higher fuel costs bite
Southwest Airlines forecasts second-quarter earnings below Wall Street expectations, citing surging fuel costs and economic uncertainty despite strong travel demand. The airline predicts adjusted earnings of 35 to 65 cents per share for the June quarter and declined to update its full-year outlook. Rising jet fuel prices, exacerbated by the Iran war, have significantly impacted the airline's costs, leading to a cut in its capacity growth forecast and the suspension of operations at Chicago O’Hare and Washington Dulles.
Boeing deliveries rise as planemaker rebounds from years of crisis
Boeing has reported a significant rebound, with first-quarter revenues up 14% year over year and outperforming Airbus for the first time since 2019, driven by increased 737 Max production and high-profile orders. However, the company faces new challenges with rising fuel prices and potential order deferrals due to the ongoing war in the Middle East, which are expected to impact future earnings. An industry consultant indicates that while Boeing is on an upward trajectory, fully fixing underlying quality issues stemming from a 1990s merger will take years.
Delta Air Lines Launches 23 New International Routes: See Where It Now Serves
Delta Air Lines is expanding its international network with 23 new and returning routes in Q2 2026, despite a slight overall reduction in international offerings compared to the previous year. These additions include 13 short-haul routes to destinations like Grenada, St. Vincent, Vancouver, Cancun, Los Cabos, Halifax, Grand Cayman, Liberia, and Nassau, and 10 long-haul routes to cities such as Marrakech, Melbourne, Madrid, Nice, Olbia, Porto, Barcelona, Rome, Malta, and Hong Kong. Many of these routes started in late 2025 or are scheduled for May and June 2026, marking new services for Delta in several markets.
Jetstar Selects Viasat to Power In-flight Connectivity Across Its Long-Range International Routes
Jetstar Airways has chosen Viasat AMARA, Viasat's next-generation in-flight connectivity solution, to equip its upgraded Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet on long-range international routes. The Viasat AMARA platform, designed for multi-orbit connectivity, will provide fast and reliable in-flight internet for passengers, supporting streaming, messaging, and browsing, with installations continuing through mid-2027. This partnership aims to enhance the passenger experience and allow Jetstar to adapt to future capacity demands and technological advancements.
United Airlines says fares may need to rise up to 20% to offset fuel surge
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby stated that ticket prices might need to increase by 15% to 20% to absorb rising jet fuel costs, despite robust demand for premium travel. The airline aims to fully recover these costs, targeting double-digit pre-tax margins next year, and has already begun implementing fare increases and higher baggage fees. While demand has not yet dropped, Kirby acknowledged that continued price hikes will eventually test consumer willingness to pay.