Delta Airlines CEO Cashes Out Hundreds of Millions Near Record Highs

Glen W. Hauenstein, president of Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE: DAL), significantly trimmed his stake by exercising options and selling several hundred thousand shares on February 6 and 9, generating roughly $30.8 million in proceeds. During the same period, Senior Vice President of Operations Steven M. Sear and Vice President of External Affairs Peter W. Carter sold shares at around $75 apiece—near their 52-week highs—realizing approximately $2.9 million and $2.02 million, respectively.

After these transactions, Hauenstein continues to hold about $20.9 million worth of Delta stock, while Sear and Carter maintain positions valued at approximately $78 million and $31.5 million, respectively.

On January 13, Delta reported record fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results, with annual revenue of $58.3 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $5.82. The airline also forecast 20% EPS growth and free cash flow of $3–4 billion for 2026.

Following the earnings release and guidance, Delta’s share price traded in the high $60s on February 10. On February 24, the stock surged more than 3% amid renewed optimism about the 2026 outlook, underscoring heightened volatility.

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Delta is a major network carrier with an extensive route system connecting North America, Europe and Asia. Its premium service strategy has positioned it as one of the most profitable U.S. airlines.

As a key architect of Delta’s network design and revenue-management systems, Hauenstein—alongside CEO Ed Bastian—has played a central role in advancing the airline’s premium-focused growth strategy and financial restructuring.