After a turbulent start to 2025, airline stocks have managed to climb into positive territory. The sector's ability to hold onto these gains is heavily dependent on a strong holiday travel season. Record-breaking Thanksgiving travel numbers and a significant rebound in passenger bookings are expected to provide a major lift. The industry's overall momentum is accelerating as it continues to recover from the post-shutdown period, making a successful holiday travel boost vital for sustaining its 2025 performance.