Airlines Brace for Profit Collapse as Middle East Conflict Drives Up Fuel Costs

(AURN News) — Airlines are bracing for major financial pressure as the war between the United States, Israel and Iran continues. Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association, released a new report outlining the state of the global air transport industry and warned that rising fuel costs are already taking a toll. […] The post Airlines Brace for Profit Collapse as Middle East Conflict Drives Up Fuel Costs appeared first on American Urban Radio Networks.

Airlines Brace for Profit Collapse as Middle East Conflict Drives Up Fuel Costs

(AURN News) — Airlines are bracing for major financial pressure as the war between the United States, Israel and Iran continues.

Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association, released a new report outlining the state of the global air transport industry and warned that rising fuel costs are already taking a toll.

“When war broke out in the Middle East in March, oil prices jumped and jet fuel prices skyrocketed,” Walsh said.

“As a result, we expect average jet fuel prices to be 70% higher year-on-year. That will add $100 billion to our collective fuel bill this year,” Walsh said.

Walsh said the ongoing conflict, particularly concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, is expected to have a major impact on airline profitability.

“We expect profitability to halve from 2025. Net profits will fall from $45 billion to $23 billion in 2026, and net margins from 4.2% to 2.0%,” he said.

The report also found that travelers expect higher costs ahead.

According to polling cited by Walsh, passengers expect airfares to follow oil prices, with 49% saying they expect to pay more for air travel.


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The post Airlines Brace for Profit Collapse as Middle East Conflict Drives Up Fuel Costs appeared first on American Urban Radio Networks.