Investment bank UBS raised its price target for United Airlines (NASDAQ: UAL) to $147.00 from the prior $145.00, sustaining a Buy rating on the shares. Currently, United Airlines is trading at $114.52, marking a 5.5% increase from the previous closing price of $108.57.
This adjustment in valuation follows the airline’s fourth-quarter report, which UBS characterized as exceeding market expectations. The airline's projections for the first quarter and fiscal year 2026 are in line with what investors anticipated, providing a steady outlook according to UBS analysts. Additionally, InvestingPro data highlights United’s profitability over the last twelve months, with diluted earnings per share (EPS) reported at $10.20.
UBS emphasizes that United Airlines adopted a more cautious stance than usual in its forecast, suggesting that there may be room for upside adjustments beyond current consensus projections. The broader Wall Street sentiment remains strongly positive, illustrated by an average analyst recommendation rating of 1.42 and price targets ranging significantly from $62 up to $156.
The new results bolster optimism for United’s stock, with UBS foreseeing a "good possibility for beats and raises" throughout the year 2026 if the company continues to capitalize on demand conditions. United Airlines trades at a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.17 and holds a market capitalization near $36.92 billion.
UBS also notes that further upward revisions to earnings estimates may be substantial if the current robust demand environment persists. Although InvestingPro’s analysis suggests that United’s market price might be somewhat elevated relative to its calculated Fair Value, the airline retains a "GOOD" overall financial health score. Investors seeking more detailed financial and operational analysis can refer to the comprehensive Pro Research Report available on InvestingPro.
Recent financial disclosures from United Airlines indicate an EPS of $3.19 for the fourth quarter of 2025, surpassing analyst expectations which were set at $2.96. The firm also recorded revenue slightly above estimates, amounting to $15.4 billion for the quarter. Other notable investment banks have responded positively: Goldman Sachs increased its price target to $135, maintaining a Buy ranking and citing favorable earnings and guidance; TD Cowen raised its target to $140, citing "very favorable" early demand metrics despite difficult prior year comparisons; BMO Capital also revised its price target upwards to $132.50, highlighting growth prospects tied to aircraft improvements, loyalty initiatives, and strategic partnerships. Collectively, these adjustments reflect a broadly constructive outlook for United Airlines in the near term.