Several major U.S. airlines are preparing to reduce their flight schedules later this year as soaring fuel expenses put pressure on profitability.
Executives from American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines said Wednesday that their carriers are considering further reductions, particularly on flights that generate lower profits. The changes are expected to affect schedules in the final months of 2026, although the airlines have not identified specific routes or flights that could be removed.
The airlines have already taken steps to offset higher operating costs, including trimming portions of their summer schedules and increasing baggage fees. At the same time, United CFO Michael Leskinen says there has been little indication that travelers are backing away from flying despite higher ticket prices and additional fees.
Airfare has risen sharply over the past year. According to the latest federal data, airline fares were roughly 25% higher from June through August 2026 than a year earlier.
Fuel has become a major expense for carriers as energy prices have climbed amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran. United, Delta, American, and Southwest collectively spent nearly 80% more on fuel from April to June this year than they did during the same period a year earlier, according to CNN.
With costs continuing to rise, CNN reports that airlines are expected to focus reductions on flights that are less profitable, including routes with weaker demand and flights scheduled during less popular times. The goal is to limit capacity where higher fuel expenses make certain flights more difficult to operate profitably, while maintaining service for flights that continue to perform well.
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