Delta Air Lines’ global workforce will share a $1.3 billion bonus, with each employee receiving a payment equal to 14% of their annual salary.
It is the second biggest payout by the airline, which distributed $1.5 billion to staff in 2016.
This year’s payment to 80,000 staff comes after the airline made pre-tax earnings of $5.2 billion.
Delta has also offered to pay employees who want to volunteer at a non-profit-making organisation of their choice. Starting on April 1, it will give workers a paid day off for voluntary work.
"Giving back has always been a part of our culture so, to celebrate, we are investing both in the Delta people and in the communities where they live, work and serve," said CEO Ed Bastian.
Delta launched a community ‘profit sharing’ programme in 2016, which contributes 1% of net profits to charities. Last year it paid out $50 million.
