The net operating surplus in the U.S. air transport industry is expected to increase steadily from $42.41 billion in 2024 to $48.56 billion in 2028. Comparing the values, we see a year-on-year growth rate of 3.7% from 2024 to 2025, a 3.5% increase from 2025 to 2026, 3.3% from 2026 to 2027, and 3.2% from 2027 to 2028. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over these five years is approximately 3.4%. In 2023, the actual net operating surplus was slightly lower than $42.41 billion.

Future trends to watch for:

Technological innovations and automation increases in the industry.
Changes in fuel prices and their impact on operating costs.
Growing demand for air travel post-pandemic recovery.
Environmental regulations and the push toward more sustainable aviation practices.
Potential impacts of geopolitical events on the aviation sector.