United Airlines posted a 3.2% increase in revenue for 2017 to US$37.7 billion, according to full-year results released by the airline.

Net income for 2017 fell by 5.8% year-on-year to US$2.13 billion.

Cargo revenue in the fourth quarter of 2017 was US$304 million, an increase of 21.6% compared to the fourth quarter of 2016. United attributed this primarily to higher international freight volume and yields. Cargo revenue for the year grew by 18.2% year-on-year to approximately US$1.04 billion.

“I am incredibly proud of how our employees delivered in 2017, achieving our best-ever operational performance,” said Oscar Munoz, chief executive officer of United Airlines. “Reliability is an important pillar in our continued focus on further improving the customer experience. Looking ahead, we are committed to improving profitability over the long-term by building on the strong foundation we have laid over the past two years. Everyone at United is excited to enter 2018 with a clear set of priorities and a renewed sense of purpose around unlocking the full potential of United Airlines.”

Cargo tonne miles at United were up by 18.2% compared to 2016, at 3.32 billion.

During the year, United took delivery of 15 widebody aircraft, consisting of 12 Boeing 777-300ERs and three 787-9s. The airline also withdrew its last 747-400 from service.

United is due to receive its first of 45 Airbus A350-900s in 2022.