Many people are interested in airline stocks—especially now that tourism is steadily recovering into 2568. I went to research which ones are worth keeping an eye on.

In Thailand, there are two that look interesting. The first is Thai Airways (THAI), the national airline. It was founded in 2502. Not long ago, it exited the debt restructuring process, and it now serves more than 60 destinations worldwide. The stock is trading at approximately 3.32 million baht, with a market capitalization of about 6.2 billion baht. What’s interesting is that it received government support during the restructuring and is widely seen as benefiting the most from the return of tourists. If tourism continues to increase, its growth potential is quite high.

The other is Bangkok Airways (BA), famously known as the “Boutique Airline of Asia.” It was founded in 2511. What’s special is that it manages its own airports in tourist destinations such as Koh Samui. It trades at 15.10 baht, with a market value of approximately 65,000–70,000 million baht. Earnings per share are 0.80 baht. By controlling its own airports, it generates additional revenue and has good profit margins. Total assets are about 1,630 million US dollars. It appears well positioned to benefit from the growth of tourism in the region.

As for overseas options, Delta Air Lines (DAL) is a major U.S. airline with a history of more than 100 years. It has more than 1,250 aircraft. It doesn’t only transport passengers—it also ships cargo. Recently, it opened a Seattle–Taiwan route to connect Asian markets. Its market value is 36.3 billion US dollars, and its price is 56.29 US dollars. Its YTD return is -6.96%, but analysts believe it is highly attractive. The 1-year target price is 64.37 US dollars. For Q2 of 2568, revenue is 16.6 billion US dollars, and operating profit is 2.1 billion US dollars. Pricing for travelers across all levels helps boost returns. Free cash flow remains stable, and it is expected to generate strong profits in the second half of the year.

United Airlines (UAL) focuses more on international travel and long-haul routes than on domestic trips. It purchases new aircraft to improve efficiency and make it more appealing to passengers. The price is 92.25 US dollars, and the market value is 3.03 billion US dollars. Its YTD return is -4.99%, but it has still received a “buy” recommendation. In Q2, revenue is 1.52 billion US dollars, and earnings per share are 3.87 US dollars. It is supported by increased demand for international travel and a rise in premium travel levels. The 1-year target is 102.24 US dollars, indicating an upward trend of about 11%.

Southwest Airlines (LUV) focuses on the U.S. domestic travel market, running a low-cost business. It has more than 700 aircraft. The price is 36.51 US dollars, and the market value is 21.9 billion US dollars. Its YTD return is +8.60%, but analysts recommend holding because labor and fuel costs are high, the fleet is aging, and revenue growth has softened. The 1-year target is 30.97 US dollars, which points to downside risks.

American Airlines (AAL) is the largest airline in the U.S. and the world. It has more than 6,800 flights per day, serving 350 destinations in 48 countries. The price is 12.51 US dollars, and the market value is 8.22 billion US dollars. Its YTD return is -28.23%, the worst among the list. However, analysts still recommend buying because it has the potential to rebound if it can control costs and improve revenue by strengthening brand loyalty. The 1-year target is 13.70 US dollars.

Overall, the strong recovery in tourism is expected to continue into 2568. Demand for travel is recovering after the pandemic, holiday seasons are approaching, and international routes are rebounding—making airline stocks draw attention again. Analysts are becoming more optimistic. This is not only due to overall travel trends, but also because of companies’ specific strategies, such as upgrading fleets, expanding loyalty programs, and improving fuel efficiency. Airlines are expected to report better earnings in early 2569, reflecting higher passenger volumes and improved operating margins.

For those looking to invest long term or speculate based on Q4 earnings reports, airline stocks are an interesting opportunity. This option includes both domestic and overseas choices. Considering their operating performance, financial strength, and analyst rankings—whether you are an investor seeking stability or a trader looking to capture opportunities from earnings momentum—these stocks reflect a sector that is recovering and has strategic potential in the coming year.