Cost Management Insights: SG&A Expenses for United Airlines Holdings, Inc. and American Airlines Group Inc.

Navigating the Skies: A Decade of SG&A Trends in Major Airlines

In the ever-competitive airline industry, managing costs is crucial for survival and growth. Over the past decade, United Airlines Holdings, Inc. and American Airlines Group Inc. have demonstrated varying strategies in handling their Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses. From 2014 to 2023, American Airlines saw a 16% increase in SG&A expenses, peaking in 2022. Meanwhile, United Airlines experienced a 44% rise, with a notable spike in 2023. The pandemic year of 2020 marked a significant dip for both, with American Airlines dropping to 36% of its 2019 expenses and United Airlines to 28%. As the industry rebounds, these figures highlight the airlines' adaptive strategies in cost management. Understanding these trends offers valuable insights into the financial health and strategic priorities of these aviation giants.