United Airlines (UAL) today reported December 2017 operational results.

UAL's December 2017 consolidated traffic (revenue passenger miles) increased 2.7 percent and consolidated capacity (available seat miles) increased 3.7 percent versus December 2016. UAL's December 2017 consolidated load factor decreased 0.8 points compared to December 2016.

"Last month, our incredible employees braved subzero temperatures and peak holiday loads to lead United into first place among competitors in mainline on-time departures, completion factor and on-time arrivals," said Scott Kirby, president of United Airlines. "It was the best-ever December for our operation, putting us in a great position to continue to deliver a solid operation for our customers as we head into 2018."

The company now expects fourth-quarter 2017 consolidated passenger unit revenue to be about flat compared to the fourth quarter of 2016, driven by stronger yields and better close-in demand.