United Airlines Holdings Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

United Airlines plans to resume nearly 30 international routes in September, including destinations in Asia, India, Australia, and Latin America. The airline will increase its overall capacity by 4% in September compared to August 2020, aiming to fly 37% of its schedule compared to the same period last year. Domestic flights will be at 40% of the scheduled capacity. New service between Chicago and Tel Aviv is planned, along with resumed routes to Amsterdam and Frankfurt. United emphasizes safety with its CleanPlus program, requiring face coverings and enhanced cleaning measures.

United Airlines has introduced the United Automated Assistant, enabling customers to text inquiries about COVID-19 safety measures and receive instant responses. This function aims to enhance customer experience and reduce contact, allowing passengers to stay informed about cleaning procedures, mask policies, and more. Alongside this, United is enforcing a mandatory mask policy at over 360 airports and has implemented various cleanliness measures through its United CleanPlus program with partners like Clorox. The airline's seat occupancy rates are also being managed to ensure safety.

United Airlines has appointed Sasha Johnson as the new Vice President of Corporate Safety, effective October 1. Johnson, currently the managing director of International Regulatory and Policy, will oversee all aspects of aviation safety and emergency operations. This transition follows the retirement of Michael Quiello, who served for 11 years and led major safety initiatives, including United's single operating certificate post-merger with Continental Airlines. CEO Scott Kirby praised Johnson's leadership and experience in aviation safety.

United Airlines announced a mandatory face-covering policy for over 360 airports, effective July 24, 2020. Passengers are required to wear masks at customer service counters, kiosks, gates, and baggage claim areas. Non-compliance may lead to travel refusal and a ban from flying United. The policy, supported by the corporate medical team and public health experts, aims to enhance safety amid COVID-19. United will also limit passenger numbers, utilizing larger aircraft to ensure social distancing and maintain a lower seat factor. This initiative is part of the United CleanPlus program focusing on health and safety.

United Airlines (UAL) reported second quarter 2020 results, marking its toughest financial quarter with a net loss of $1.6 billion and an adjusted net loss of $2.6 billion. Revenues plummeted 87.1% year-over-year, reflecting an 87.8% decrease in capacity. As of July 20, liquidity stood at $15.2 billion, projected to surpass $18 billion by the end of Q3. Daily cash burn averaged $40 million in Q2, expected to reduce to $25 million in Q3. The airline has raised a total of $16.1 billion in liquidity since the crisis began and initiated various health measures to ensure safety.

On July 20, 2020, United Airlines announced enhancements to its air filtration systems on mainline aircraft, maximizing airflow during boarding and deplaning. This initiative aims to reduce COVID-19 transmission risk by utilizing HEPA filters that remove 99.97% of airborne particles, including viruses. Beginning July 27, the new processes will complement existing safety measures, including mandatory masks, health screenings, and increased disinfection protocols. United's efforts align with research from DARPA to improve passenger safety and confidence in air travel.

United Airlines will conduct a conference call on July 22, 2020, at 9:30 a.m. CT to discuss its second-quarter 2020 financial results. The earnings release and third-quarter investor update will be available after market close on July 21, 2020. A live webcast of the call can be accessed via ir.united.com, with replay available within 24 hours for three months.

United Airlines has completed a private offering of $3.8 billion in 6.50% senior secured notes due 2027, along with a $3.0 billion term loan facility. The funds will be loaned to United after reserving a portion for repayment obligations. The offering is exempt from registration under the Securities Act and limited to qualified institutional buyers. The financing aims to bolster liquidity amid ongoing challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Investors are cautioned about potential risks related to compliance with covenants and broader economic conditions.

United Airlines announced a significant expansion for August 2020, increasing its flight schedule by nearly 25,000 flights compared to July. The airline plans to operate 40% of its August 2019 schedule, up from 30% in July. Key highlights include adding over 600 daily U.S. flights and resuming international routes to destinations such as Tahiti and Cancun. United emphasizes a data-driven approach to rebuilding its schedule while prioritizing safety with new health protocols under the United CleanPlus initiative.