I just noticed that airline stocks are becoming hot again these days. The global travel recovery is really strong, starting from 2025 onwards. From New Year holidays to Christmas season, the demand for international flights has increased significantly. If you're looking for airline stocks to watch, check out these 6 selected names.

In Thailand, there are two interesting ones. Thai Airways, which emerged from debt restructuring in mid-2025, now serves over 60 destinations. The stock price is around 3.32 baht, with a market value of approximately 6.2 billion baht. What attracts investors is government support, helping to strengthen financial stability, and being the airline that benefits most from the return of tourists. If tourism continues to grow, there are growth opportunities.

The other is Bangkok Airways, known as the "Boutique Airline of Asia," founded in 1968. This airline is unique because it owns its own airports, such as at Koh Samui, generating additional income from airport management. Currently, the stock price is 15.10 baht, with a market value of 65,000-70,000 million baht. Earnings per share are 0.80 baht. It has a strong asset base of about 1.63 billion USD and steady profits. This company seems well-positioned to benefit from regional tourism.

Looking abroad, Delta Air Lines is a true giant with over 100 years of history, a fleet of more than 1,250 aircraft. It not only transports passengers but also ships cargo. As of mid-2025, its market cap was 36.3 billion USD, with a stock price of 56.29 USD. Year-to-date return is -6.96%, but analysts still see it as a very attractive buy, with a 1-year target of 64.37 USD. In Q2, revenue was 16.6 billion USD, with an operating profit of 2.1 billion USD. Pricing strategies across all passenger classes can significantly boost returns. Its cash flow is strong, and it looks poised for good profits in the second half of the year.

United Airlines is also interesting, focusing on international and long-haul routes. After COVID, it purchased new aircraft to replace old ones, aiming to improve efficiency and attract higher-paying passengers. In 2025, the stock was at 92.25 USD, with a market cap of 30.3 billion USD. Year-to-date, the return is -4.99%, but it still has a "buy" recommendation. In Q2, revenue was 15.2 billion USD, with earnings per share of 3.87 USD. The demand for international travel and premium routes continues to grow. The 1-year target is 102.24 USD, up about 11%.

Southwest Airlines focuses on the U.S. domestic market, with over 700 aircraft, operating as a low-cost carrier on short-haul routes mainly for leisure travel. In 2025, the stock price was 36.51 USD, with a market value of 21.9 billion USD. Year-to-date, the return is +8.60%, but analysts recommend holding due to rising labor and fuel costs, aging fleet, and weaker revenue growth compared to competitors. The 1-year target is 30.97 USD, indicating downside risk. Investors remain cautious despite good sales.

The last one, American Airlines, is not only the largest airline in the U.S. but also the biggest in the world, flying over 6,800 flights daily to 350 destinations across more than 48 countries. In 2025, the stock was at 12.51 USD, with a market cap of 8.22 billion USD. The YTD return is -28.23%, the worst among these, but analysts recommend buying, seeing potential for recovery if cost control and brand loyalty improve. The 1-year target is 13.70 USD. Passenger demand remains relatively stable, but profit pressures persist. Investors should consider carefully; if management achieves restructuring goals, long-term recovery is possible.

In summary, airline stocks are regaining interest due to the strong travel recovery. This is driven not only by general trends but also by each company's specific strategies, such as fleet upgrades, loyalty program expansion, and fuel efficiency improvements. Earnings are expected to improve in early 2026 thanks to high passenger volumes and better profit margins in the second half of this year. For those looking at long-term growth or short-term trading based on Q4 reports released in January-February, airline stocks present compelling opportunities. Whether you're a conservative investor or a momentum trader, these options reflect a sector that is recovering and has potential in the coming year.