Delta cuts 2026 profit outlook as fuel costs surge 60 percent

Delta Air Lines has cut its 2026 profit forecast as fuel prices surged across the global aviation sector, while passenger demand and fares remained strong.

• Delta cut its 2026 earnings outlook to $5.10–$5.60 per share, down from the $6.50–$7.50 forecast issued in July.
• Third-quarter jet fuel costs jumped 60 percent, a $1.6 billion increase, though adjusted net income rose 2 percent on fares up 15 percent.
• CEO Ed Bastian said the airline raised prices roughly 20 percent this year and expects strong demand and higher fares to continue through the holidays.
• Delta announced new international routes, including Seattle–Tokyo, Boston–Venice and Austin–Paris, beginning next year.