Delta Air Lines Expects to Absorb $6 Billion in Fuel Costs, Lowers 2026 Profit Outlook

Delta Air Lines cuts profit forecast as fuel costs outpace fare gains

Delta Air Lines cut its annual profit forecast by nearly a quarter at the midpoint ​on Friday as surging fuel costs overwhelmed strong travel demand and higher ticket prices, sending its shares down 3% in premarket trading.

Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) Announces FY 2026 Earnings Guidance

Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL) updated its FY 2026 earnings guidance. The company provided EPS guidance of 5.100-5.600 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of 5.520.

Delta Air Lines slashes Q3 2026 earnings outlook on fuel costs

The airline now expects full-year adjusted EPS of $5.10 to $5.60, down from a July forecast of $6.50 to $7.50

Delta Air Lines Expects to Absorb $6 Billion in Fuel Costs, Lowers 2026 Profit Outlook

Delta still had a profitable third quarter, even as volatile fuel costs are now forcing it to lower its 2026 forecast. The carrier has already accrued $900 million in profit sharing for 2027.

Delta Air Lines cuts 2026 forecast on fuel surge, but CEO says demand is still strong

Delta Air Lines reported third-quarter earnings and missed Wall Street estimates for the first time in two years.