GE Aerospace upbeat after strong end to the year

(Sharecast News) - GE Aerospace said on Thursday it had started 2026 with "solid momentum", on the back of robust demand and a spike in earnings. Total orders at the US aviation giant surged 74% in the fourth quarter to $27bn, contributing to a 32% hike over the year to December end to $66.2bn. Adjusted revenues jumped 20% in the quarter, to an above-forecast $11.9bn, and by 21% over the year, to $42.3bn.

Annual net income rose to $8.7bn from $6.6bn, while adjusted earnings per share sparked 38% at $6.37.

Driving growth was a 24% hike in annual revenues in commercial engines and services, to $33.3bn. GE said three out of four commercial flights were now powered by its engines.

Revenues in defence and propulsion technologies were also stronger, however, up 11% at $10.6bn.

Lawrence Culp, chief executive, said: "With a strong fourth quarter, GE Aerospace delivered an outstanding year.

"We enter 2026 with solid momentum to build upon these results and are well-positioned to create greater value for our customers. This supports another year of substantial earnings per share and cash growth."

GE forecast adjusted profits per share to come in between $7.10 and $7.40 in 2026, ahead of analyst expectations for around $7.11. Adjusted revenues, meanwhile, were forecast to increase in the low double digit percentage range.

The stock initially sparked immediately following the update, but fell back as pre-market trading continued, losing 3% as at 1400 GMT.

GE's lengthy history as one of America's biggest conglomerates came an end to in 2024, after its healthcare, energy and aerospace businesses were spun out into separately-listed companies. The break-up was overseen by Culp, formerly group chief executive.