Airlines grappling with high fuel costs | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

United Airlines and American Airlines warned they may need to cut more capacity in the fourth quarter as fuel prices stay high. American CEO Robert Isom said at a Morgan Stanley conference in California that if fuel remains at current levels, it will require adjustments to capacity planning. United CFO Mike Leskinen said the carrier will “make some adjustments” into the first quarter and beyond into 2027, emphasizing that it is focused on profitability and free cash generation rather than maximizing market share. American’s shares briefly rose as much as 4% before closing down 0.55%, while United ended about 0.6% lower. American estimates fuel will add $1 billion in extra costs in the final three months and sees added fuel costs near $6 billion for 2026, partly offset by year-end.