
Delta Q3 Earnings Miss as Fuel Costs Surge 62% Amid Iran Conflict
Delta Air Lines missed third-quarter earnings estimates and slashed its 2026 profit outlook due to a 62% surge in fuel costs driven by the US-Israeli war with Iran. While premium segment growth and strong demand helped cushion the blow, the airline now expects full-year adjusted EPS of $5.10-$5.60, down from a prior range of $6.50-$7.50, and free cash flow of $2.5 billion. CEO Ed Bastian emphasized that fares are rising to offset the $6 billion increase in annual fuel expenses, though the company faces competitive pressure from rivals offering superior in-flight connectivity.













