Delta Air Lines has reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and year end December 31, 2006.

The airline posted a full-year operating profit of US$58 million, the company's first annual operating profit since 2000. However, the fourth quarter was devastating with a net loss of US$2.0 billion, including reorganisation items. The full year net loss was even worse with US$6.2 billion, compared to 2005's full year net loss of US$3.8 billion.

Despite these heavy losses, the company claimed it has reached its goal of US$3 billion in annual financial improvements, one year ahead of the target.

"A full year operating profit marks a major milestone for Delta. With court approval of the company's Disclosure Statement earlier this month, there is great momentum building towards a successful emergence from Chapter 11 this spring as a strong, healthy and independent global competitor," commented Gerald Grinstein, Delta's Chief Executive Officer.