Middle East conflict drives oil spike, forcing fare hikes and flight cuts

The global airline industry has significantly lowered its 2026 profit forecast due to rising fuel costs and disruptions from the Iran war. Airlines are now expected to earn $23…

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

International Air Transport Association warns on jet fuel prices and route disruption

US airline fuel costs surged 78% to nearly $6.5 billion in April as Middle East tensions drove fuel prices higher, according to USDOT data.

The figure is double what airlines paid in February, nearly a month before the war with Iran.