The global airline sector is expected to achieve record profits in 2026, despite ongoing supply chain issues that are slowing aircraft deliveries and delaying the arrival of more fuel-efficient models, according to forecasts released Tuesday by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
IATA projects that the net profit of global airlines will reach $41 billion ($35.2 billion) next year, with revenue expected to grow by 4.5% to $1.053 trillion.
The net margin rate is anticipated to remain stable at 3.9%.
This forecast comes as Airbus has scaled back its delivery targets for 2025, citing a quality issue affecting certain metallic fuselage panels on its A320 models.
The world's two leading aircraft manufacturers, Airbus and Boeing, have both experienced delivery delays to their customers in recent years.
Airlines say they are unable to reduce fuel costs while transporting more passengers without newer, more efficient aircraft.
Despite these challenges, IATA maintains an optimistic outlook for the coming year.
"Airlines have managed to build shock-absorbing resilience into their operations, which is ensuring stable profitability," said IATA Director General Willie Walsh in a statement.
(Written by Joanna Plucinska and Olivia Le Poidevin, French version by Elena Smirnova, edited by Blandine Hénault)
