Emerging from bankruptcy in February 2006, United Airlines has posted a net profit of $25 million for the first 11 months until 31 December 2006. This figure represents an improvement of $423 million, excluding reorganisation items.

Revenues for the same period were $17.4 billion. Despite the small profit, United Airlines lost $61 million in the fourth quarter.

"We have accomplished much this year against our performance agenda to control costs, improve revenue and deliver an improved customer experience, and the momentum from that work continues," said Glenn Tilton, United's president, chairman and chief executive.

United's turnaround underscores the modest recovery in the US airline industry. "We are continuing to deliver improved results, and are making progress against our cost goals," commented Jake Brace, executive vice-president and chief financial officer. (US dollar is the currency used in this report unless otherwise stated)