United Airlines has raised its annual profit outlook, citing strong revenue trends that are helping to offset volatile fuel prices. The carrier now expects adjusted earnings to reach $9 to $11 a share in 2026, an increase of $2 a share at the low end of its previous target. This revised forecast surpasses analyst expectations, which had already anticipated United nearing the higher end of its prior guidance.

Despite rising airfares, demand for air travel remains robust. This resilience provides United and other airlines with a buffer against fluctuating jet fuel costs, which have been exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and are impacting industry profitability. Analysts surveyed by Fact Set had projected earnings closer to the upper range of United's previous outlook.

For the third quarter, United anticipates adjusted earnings between $2.50 and $3.50 a share. This projection, however, falls short of the $3.53 a share estimated by Fact Set analysts. The updated outlook incorporates a recent spike in jet fuel prices over the past week.