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FlightGlobalAlfred Chua

Airlines report divergent first-half results as fuel costs pressure margins

Cathay Pacific posted its strongest first-half performance since 2010, with passenger and cargo growth offsetting higher fuel costs, while Lufthansa’s operating profit fell to €383 million and Air Astana slipped into a small loss. Carriers remain cautious as Middle East-related fuel price pressures persist.

2026-08-04T20:59:05.722106-07:00

Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact

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FlightGlobal

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Airlines report divergent first-half results as fuel costs pressure margins

Cathay Pacific posted its strongest first-half performance since 2010, with passenger and cargo growth offsetting higher fuel costs, while Lufthansa’s operating profit fell to €383 million and Air Astana slipped into a small loss. Carriers remain cautious as Middle East-related fuel price pressures persist.

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Lufthansa Group’s Q2 profit slumps as fuel costs surge and 777X plans remain flexible

Lufthansa Group’s second-quarter adjusted EBIT fell by more than half as fuel costs rose by more than $750 million year over year and strike-related expenses weighed on results. The group widened its outlook range, while Lufthansa and Swiss pursue differing network strategies and the first 777-9 delivery remains planned for early 2027.

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