Delta, United and American airlines report booming travel demand despite facing a $400m hit to first-quarter profits from doubled jet fuel prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Executives at the carriers told investors that passenger numbers surged, with United's first 10 weeks of 2026 ranking among its top 10 booking weeks in history.

Five of Delta's top 10 highest-grossing days occurred since US and Israeli attacks on Iran began, with sales up 25% last year. Delta's premium passengers, who account for 90% of revenues, remained unperturbed by recent price increases. American Airlines increased its first-quarter revenue growth guidance to over 10%, noting eight of its top 10 revenue booking days occurred this quarter.

Business travel reached post-Covid records across all industries, with double-digit growth in financial services, aerospace, media, and technology. However, aviation economists warn airlines may underestimate medium-term impacts, noting a potential security risk from unpaid airport workers during the government shutdown. The carriers' confidence in sustained demand could face challenges as the Iran-related energy crisis unfolds.