United Airlines’  Q3 profit was $2.78 per share, topping predictions|Aero Icarus|CC BY-SA 2.0

United Airlines expects its highest quarterly revenue ever, forecasting adjusted profits of $3.00 to $3.50 per share for the December quarter, beating analysts’ $2.86 estimate.

The Chicago-based airline’s Q3 profit was $2.78 per share, topping predictions. Shares rose 1.5% in after-hours trading.

United attributes growth to rising travel demand, higher ticket prices, and strong premium and loyalty revenue, up 6% and 9% respectively.

CEO Scott Kirby said the airline is investing $1 billion to enhance customer experience, including upgraded lounges, Starlink internet on planes, and seatback screens.

With reduced domestic seat capacity and Spirit Airlines shrinking its operations, United expects airfares to stay high. The company will discuss results with analysts on Thursday.

Revenue in Q3 reached $15.2 billion, a 2.6% increase from last year.