Delta Plays it Safe

The airline ordered 20 Airbus A350 aircraft, as it bets on long-haul international travel. As for the fourth quarter, it was fine.

Dear readers,

Happy Saturday. Delta reported earnings yesterday, and since it’s a weekend, I'll be judicious of your time and keep my summary brief.

First, a quick look at the fourth quarter

• Fourth quarter net income was $2.037 billion, on revenues of $14.2 billion.

• Operating margin was 9.3 percent.

• ASMs increased 15 percent, year-over-year.

• CASM-ex fuel incr…