IATA said on 7 June 2026 that global airline net profit is projected to fall to $23.0 billion in 2026, about half of its earlier forecast of $41 billion, as high fuel costs and Middle East disruptions weigh on profitability.
The association also projected a net margin of 2.0% and operating profit of $48.0 billion, with an operating margin of 4.1%. Total industry revenues are still expected to reach $1.165 trillion, but expenses are forecast to rise faster than revenues.
IATA said fuel costs are set to climb to $350 billion in 2026 from $252 billion in 2025. Net profit per passenger is expected to fall to $4.50, down from $9.10 in 2025, even as passenger load factor is forecast to reach a record 84.0%.