United Airlines reported first-quarter revenue and profit that topped analyst estimates. However, the company cut its full-year earnings forecast, citing escalating fuel expenses, which sent shares lower in after-hours trading.
Back
Back
United Airlines Q1 earnings beat overshadowed by lowered 2026 outlook
United Airlines Holdings Inc. (UAL) reported first-quarter adjusted earnings of $1.19 per share, beating analyst estimates, but lowered its full-year profit outlook, sending shares down in late trading.
"These are results our employees can be proud of, and they show the resilience of our long-term strategy, even in the face of escalating fuel expense," CEO Scott Kirby said in a statement.
The airline reported revenue of $14.61 billion, up 10.6 percent year-over-year and surpassing the consensus estimate of $14.34 billion. The top-line beat was driven by strong demand in premium cabins, where revenue jumped 14 percent.
Despite the strong quarterly performance, United's stock fell 1.32 percent in after-hours trading. The negative reaction was attributed to the company's revised full-year 2026 guidance, which was lowered to a range of $7 to $11 per share from a previous forecast of $12 to $14. This suggests that rising fuel costs, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and other operational challenges may weigh on profitability more than previously expected.
United's unhedged fuel book has exposed it to price volatility, with CEO Scott Kirby previously flagging a potential $400 million impact from the Iran war. This contrasts with competitor Delta Air Lines Inc. (DAL), which hedges its fuel costs and reported a strong earnings beat earlier in the month.
Total operating revenue per available seat mile (TRASM), a key industry metric, increased by 6.9 percent, while cost per available seat mile (CASM) rose 4.4 percent. The company ended the quarter with $17.2 billion in total liquidity.
The guidance cut signals that while travel demand remains robust, cost pressures are a significant concern for the airline industry. Investors will be closely watching the company's earnings call on Wednesday for more details on the revised outlook and strategies to manage costs.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.
[1] Earnings live updates: UnitedHealth stock jumps on upbeat guidance, Tesla and others report this week[2] United Airlines earnings prediction market preview: What will Scott Kirby say?[3] UnitedHealth Group reports $6.2B+ Q1 profit: 7 notes[4] UnitedHealth: Q1 Earnings Snapshot[5] UnitedHealth Group spotlights AI investments as part of operational turnaround[6] United Airlines stock slips as softer 2026 outlook overshadows Q1 earnings beat[7] UnitedHealth stock jumps 7% on earnings outlook beat[8] United Airlines (UAL) beats Q1 earnings and revenue estimates[9] UnitedHealth Group Surprises Wall Street. Is It Time to Load Up on the Beaten-Down Buffett Stock?[10] United Airlines earnings prediction market preview: What will Scott Kirby say?
Features
Resources
© 2026 Finture Development Limited. All rights reserved