- Net profit stood at -$4.3bn in 2026 forecasts.
- Net margin equalled -6.1 pc.
- Profit per passenger reached -$21.40.
- Demand in RPK declined 11.4 pc.
- Capacity in ASK decreased 4.4 pc.
Middle East carriers have been experiencing capacity reductions and flight cancellations from regional conflict, according to the industry update at the IATA Congress in Rio de Janeiro. The region generated a net loss with loss of transfer traffic affecting load factors. Elevated fuel prices pushed up operating expenses.
Net profit stood at -$4.3bn in 2026 forecasts with a net margin of -6.1 pc. Profit per passenger reached -$21.40. Demand in RPK declined 11.4 pc while capacity in ASK fell 4.4 pc.
Favorable tax environment and secure fuel access supported resilience. Geographic position and dense network provided long-term foundations.
Willie Walsh shared “smaller carriers that started the year with weak balance sheets are certainly struggling.”
