# American Airlines Profits Plunge 88% in Q2, Likely to Lose Money in 2026

_Jul 23 13:36_

Tags: American Airlines, United Airlines, airline, industry news

American Airlines reported an 88% year-over-year profit drop in Q2 2026, earning just $71 million. The carrier updated its full-year guidance to -$0.65 to $0.65 per share, making a 2026 profit unlikely

## Summary

American Airlines reported Q2 2026 net income of $71 million, an 88% decrease year-over-year. This follows a $382 million loss in Q1 2026, resulting in a $311 million loss for the first half of the year. American has updated its full-year 2026 earnings per share guidance to -$0.65 to $0.65, down from previous estimates of -$0.40 to $1.10 and initial guidance of $1.70 to $2.70. For context, Delta maintained guidance of $6.50 to $7.50, while United lowered guidance to $9 to $11. The decline is attributed to rising jet fuel prices despite record revenue. CEO Robert Isom cited strong commercial strategy, but analysts view a 2026 profit as unlikely without a crash in oil prices

## Why it matters

Affects 3 airline programs (American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines).

## Sources cited

- [One Mile at a Time](https://onemileatatime.com/news/american-profits-plunge-airline-lose-money-2026) — American Profits Plunge 88% In Q2, Airline Likely To Lose Money In 2026

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