Forget Air Canada (TSX:AC): This Airline Stock Could Double in 2021

Cargojet is an industrial airline stock that looks primed to double investment returns with amazing upside potential.

| More on:

The early days of the pandemic saw the Air Canada (TSX:AC) share prices decline by more than 70%. The stock has been catching investor interest ever since the pandemic hit and vastly disrupted air travel. Air Canada has been in substantial trouble because the airline consistently bled cash while its operations were down.

Many investors bought Air Canada stock in hopes that it could gradually recover to its pre-pandemic valuation and they could rake in the profits. The news of a bailout package raised investor hopes. Unfortunately, it continues to trade for lower valuations.

After five consecutive quarters of losses, Air Canada might not offer investors much of an upside in the short- to medium-term. It may therefore be better to consider a stock that offers greater prospects than risking your capital on a stock that offers a bleak outlook in the coming months.

A screaming buy on the TSX

Cargojet (TSX:CJT) is a time-sensitive overnight air cargo services provider with a monopoly in Canada, much like how Air Canada has a monopoly on passenger flights. Unlike Air Canada, Cargojet stock has managed to deliver consistently amazing results in the last five years.

The company recently reported strong first-quarter results. Its revenues climbed to $160.3 million from $123 million in the same period last year. Its gross margins increased from 26% last year to 28% in the latest quarter. The company also increased its adjusted free cash flow from $44.6 million to $64.2 million.

Cargojet managed to capitalize on the ongoing growth of the e-commerce sector by investing in expanding its fleet and improving its balance sheet. Cargojet’s share prices declined by over 33% between November 2020 and March 2021. After the much-needed correction, the growth stock has regained momentum for an upward trajectory.

The stock is trading for $183 per share at writing and also boasts a small 0.57% dividend yield. The stock could be a far better pick for your portfolio than Air Canada under the current environment. While it may not offer much in terms of dividend income, its price appreciation potential is the real reason it could be an excellent investment for your portfolio.

Foolish takeaway

Air Canada stock is up by almost 16% on a year-to-date basis at writing. The airline stock has the potential to become a decent long-term recovery play for you to consider for your portfolio. However, it continues to be one of the few top TSX stocks struggling to recover to pre-pandemic valuations.

While Cargojet also operates a fleet of aircraft, its focus on catering to industrial clients and the increasing need to prevent supply chain disruptions could lead to significant demand for the stock.

Given the emerging industry trends, CJT could offer you substantial returns on your investment in a shorter timeline than it might take Air Canada to do so.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Adam Othman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends CARGOJET INC.

More on Dividend Stocks

TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) on wooden blocks and Canadian one hundred dollar bills.
Dividend Stocks

Where to Invest Your $7,000 TFSA Contribution

The TFSA is attractive for investors who want to generate tax-free passive income.

Read more »

The TFSA is a powerful savings vehicle for Canadians who are saving for retirement.
Dividend Stocks

TFSA Investors: 3 Dividend Stocks Worth Holding Forever

These TSX stocks have the potential to grow their dividends over the next decade, making them top investments for TFSA…

Read more »

Tractor spraying a field of wheat
Dividend Stocks

Is Nutrien Stock a Buy for its Dividend Yield?

Nutrien is down more than 50% form the 2022 highs. Is NTR stock now oversold?

Read more »

golden sunset in crude oil refinery with pipeline system
Dividend Stocks

Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Enbridge vs TC Energy?

Enbridge and TC Energy rebounded nicely over the past year. Are more gains on the way?

Read more »

Electricity transmission towers with orange glowing wires against night sky
Dividend Stocks

2 Utility Stocks That Are Smart Buys for Canadians in November

Are you looking for some of the smart buys to consider in November? These utility stocks offer growth and a…

Read more »

View of high rise corporate buildings in the financial district of Toronto, Canada
Dividend Stocks

Is Power Corporation of Canada Stock a Buy for its 5% Dividend Yield?

Is Power Corporation of Canada (TSX:POW) stock's 5% dividend yield worth it? Discover why this resilient stock could be a…

Read more »

hand stacks coins
Dividend Stocks

Here Are My Top 3 Dividend Stocks to Buy Now

These three dividend stocks are ideal for strengthening your portfolio and earning a stable passive income.

Read more »

man touches brain to show a good idea
Dividend Stocks

3 No-Brainer REIT Stocks to Buy Right Now for Less Than $200

REITs have long been touted as some of the best dividend stocks out there if you want recurring, strong income.…

Read more »