Global airline industry expected to post record profits by 2026

VTV.vn - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecast on December 9 that the world aviation industry will achieve a record net profit of 41 billion USD next year.

Global airline industry expected to post record profits by 2026

Notably, this optimistic forecast comes despite supply chain issues that are holding back aircraft deliveries, as well as delaying the deployment of more fuel-efficient aircraft.

IATA Director General Willie Walsh said airlines have been able to respond to shocks and recover in business segments that provide stable profitability. Walsh added that a slight drop in jet fuel prices could help ease the financial burden. However, legal costs, particularly in Europe, as well as uncertainty related to global conflicts and aviation security incidents, are hindering the potential for further profitability in the industry.

The report also pointed to a particular bright spot in Europe, where the region overtook the US to become the place with the highest net profit per passenger.

IATA's forecast comes just days after Airbus slashed its 2025 delivery target, citing quality issues with some of its A320 fuselage panels. The move comes just days after Airbus had to address software issues on 6,000 A320s.

Mr Walsh said the aviation industry was witnessing a shift, with Boeing’s performance recognised as having improved significantly while confidence in Airbus was waning. He expressed frustration that this would result in fewer new aircraft being delivered than expected.

Both Airbus and Boeing have faced delays in deliveries to customers in recent years, with airlines saying they cannot cut fuel costs without new, more fuel-efficient aircraft.

Source: https://vtv.vn/nganh-hang-khong-toan-cau-du-kien-dat-loi-nhuan-ky-luc-vao-nam-2026-100251209213032858.htm