$YOU · Clear Secure, Inc.
Clear Secure filed an 8-K reporting Q3 2026 results. Revenue grew 27.8% YoY to $292.9M, operating income reached $82.9M (28.3% margin), and net income was $75.3M. Diluted EPS was $0.52. The company raised FY26 free cash flow guidance from at least $480M to at least $490M and announced a $175M increase to its buyback authorization, bringing remaining authorization to ~$254.4M.
- Revenue of $292.9M grew 27.8% YoY; Total Bookings of $323.5M rose 24.4%.
- Adjusted EBITDA of $103.9M represented a 35.5% margin, up 490 bps YoY.
- Total CLEAR Members reached 46.7M (+30.7% YoY); Active CLEAR+ Members hit 8.5M (+14.5%).
- Board added $175M to buyback authorization, leaving ~$254.4M remaining.
- FY26 free cash flow guidance raised to at least $490M, implying 42.8%+ growth.
Extended-hours trading pushed shares to $51.00, up 6.78% from the $47.76 regular close, signaling a positive reaction to the beat and raised guidance.
Strong double-digit growth, margin expansion, and a raised FCF outlook reinforce Clear's momentum despite a heavy one-time partnership payout.
Clear's 27.8% revenue growth and expanding margins stand out among identity/security peers, with the VA pilot extending its platform beyond travel.
Net cash used in operating activities was $(98.6)M and free cash flow $(103.8)M in Q3, reflecting a ~$315M settlement of accrued partnership liabilities.