U.S. Airline Stocks Surge by $300 Billion in a Day: What Happened?

Alaska Air Group Inc. (NYSE: ALK) closed at $38.94 on the New York Stock Exchange on the 22nd, up 5.50%. Its market capitalization reached approximately $4.46 billion (about ₩5.8 trillion), representing a one-day increase of roughly $260 million (₩340 billion). Trading volume exceeded 2.9 million shares, drawing strong investor interest.

Earlier this month, following its earnings release, both the share price and trading volume expanded. The company projected its 2026 earnings per share in a range of $3.50 to $6.50, highlighting expectations for a mid-to-long-term profitability rebound. In January, Alaska Air Group placed its largest-ever aircraft order—focusing on Boeing 737-10s and 787s—and announced investments in hub airports and route expansions to drive growth.

Headquartered on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska Air Group is the parent company of Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air, operating over 300 aircraft with strong positions on the U.S. mainland, Hawaii, and Pacific routes. After completing the acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines in 2024, the group plans to launch an integrated loyalty program in 2025 to boost long-term profitability through economies of scale and network synergies.