GE Aerospace ( NYSE:GE ) just smashed expectations with a powerhouse fourth quarter, sending its stock up 10% this morning as investors cheered the results. Orders surged 46% to $15.5 billion, while revenue climbed 14% to $10.8 billion. Profit jumped 37% to $2.3 billion, and adjusted earnings per share more than doubled to $1.32. The key driver? Sky-high demand for maintenance services as production delays at Boeing and Airbus force airlines to keep older jets in the air longer. GE's service revenue surged, proving just how vital it is to the global aviation ecosystem.

CEO Larry Culp is keeping the momentum rolling in 2025, forecasting double-digit revenue and profit growth, along with a free cash flow conversion north of 100%. To sweeten the deal for investors, GE is rolling out a $7 billion stock buyback program and boosting its dividend by 30%. The company is also tightening operations, merging its engineering and supply chain teams into a new Technology & Operations division to streamline production and accelerate deliveries. On the business front, GE locked in major deals, including a $1.1 billion U.S. Army contract and a fresh order from EL AL Israel Airlinesclear signals of strength across both commercial and defense segments.

The market took notice, pushing GE's stock to fresh highs. With its FLIGHT DECK operating model driving efficiency and a booming demand tailwind, GE Aerospace is flexing its dominance in aviation. There's always the risk of cyclical slowdowns, but right now, the company is firing on all cylinders. For investors looking for a mix of growth and income, GE's combination of market leadership, operational execution, and shareholder-friendly policies makes it a compelling bet.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus .