Delta Air Cuts Profit Outlook Amid Soaring Fuel Costs

By EC Assets · Published 9 October 2026

Delta Air Lines has lowered its profit outlook after higher fuel costs impacted its financial performance. The airline reduced its full-year earnings outlook as surging jet fuel prices continued to affect U.S. carriers. This situation occurred even as strong travel demand helped the airline. Adjusted operating income for Delta fell 2% to $1.66 billion. The operating margin narrowed to 9.4% from 11.1% a year earlier. Adjusted fuel expense surged 62% to $4.14 billion. Delta expects adjusted earnings per share for 2026 to be $5.10 to $5.60. The company slashed its profit forecast despite achieving record third-quarter revenues. Delta predicts a surge in jet fuel prices, resulting from the Iran conflict, will incur additional costs. The high jet fuel prices stem from the war in the Middle East. Shares in Delta Air Lines dropped more than 3% premarket following the earnings outlook cut. The airline attributed the revision to another quarter of persistently high fuel costs. The CEO noted that demand remains strong despite the fuel surge impacting the 2026 forecast. This article is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice.