RIYADH: Middle Eastern carriers generated an estimated $7.2 billion in net profit in 2025, delivering the highest profit margins globally among all regions, according to the International Air Transport Association’s Annual Review. In its latest report, IATA revealed that this strong performance, corresponding to a 9.4 percent net margin, was supported by strong hub operations, a high share of premium traffic, favorable fuel costs, and ongoing network expansion.

IATA reduces 2026 airline profit forecast to $23 billion due to rising fuel costs and geopolitical instability.

International Air Transport Association, IATA, has forecast that airline profitability will halve in 2026 compared to 2025, fingering war-related disruptions in the Middle East…