In the United States, Delta Airlines has been sharing profits with its workforce since 2007, implementing a profit-sharing incentive that has significantly evolved over the years. The program was originally introduced during a challenging period when the company was recovering from bankruptcy and faced numerous hard decisions, including pay cuts and job losses. CEO Ed Bastian highlighted that, at the time, many employees were skeptical about the management's handling of finances amidst restructuring, prompting the need for a transparent profit-sharing scheme. As the airline regained profitability and transformed into the most profitable airline in the nation, Delta has consistently shared a portion of its earnings with employees. In 2026, Delta distributed a staggering $1.3 billion to its employees, marking the ninth instance in a decade where the company has shared more than $1 billion. This profit-sharing model not only provides financial benefits to workers but also fosters loyalty and long-term commitment to the company. Nearly 90% of Delta employees envision working long-term with the airline— a figure notably higher than the average for companies ranked among the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2025. The success of the profit-sharing program is reflected in Delta's robust financial performance, establishing its position as the most profitable U.S. airline that excels in employee compensation relative to its industry peers. The program represents an essential part of the company's culture, reinforcing the philosophy that employee success correlates with customer satisfaction and, consequently, investor loyalty. Customer loyalty remains strong, as evidenced by Delta’s impressive Net Promoter Score ranging from 41 to 43, an indication of customers' likelihood to recommend the airline to others. Bastian argues that this approach not only ensures employees benefit during profitable times but also serves as a fail-safe that instills confidence and commitment among employees. He believes that when employees feel that their contributions are recognized and rewarded, it enhances customer service, leading to greater customer retention and, ultimately, profitability that benefits stakeholders, including investors. As Delta continues to embrace this culture of sharing success, the airline exemplifies the positive reinforcement of a workforce that feels valued and invested in the company's future.