EL7.AI
Stocks•16 July 2026•
1 min read

Morgan Stanley Hikes United Airlines Target to $190 on Strong Outlook

Key Facts

1Morgan Stanley analyst Ravi Shanker raised the price target for United Airlines from $185 to $190.
2The airline raised its full-year adjusted earnings guidance to a range of $9.00 to $11.00 per share.
3The company expects nearly $6.00 billion in additional fuel costs for the full year due to rising prices.

Amid a robust recovery in international travel markets, Morgan Stanley analyst Ravi Shanker has raised the price target for United Airlines from $185 to $190. This adjustment follows the carrier's decision to increase its full-year adjusted earnings guidance to a range of $9.00 to $11.00 per share. However, the company cautioned that it anticipates nearly $6.00 billion in additional fuel expenses for the full year due to surging energy prices.

The upgrade highlights United's resilience compared to industry peers, as the airline aims to offset higher fuel costs by the fourth quarter. Contextually, recent earnings reports from competitors like Delta Air Lines have also shown strong international demand, validating the bullish sentiment for major carriers with significant long-haul exposure per recent sector analysis and market data.

Traders should monitor the stock's performance following its close at $120.97 (close July 15, 2026), with the new target implying nearly 60% upside potential. Key catalysts to watch include the upcoming OPEC meeting on July 13, 2026, which could impact fuel price volatility and influence the airline's ability to maintain its updated profit margins.