Lufthansa reports strong third-quarter results

Lufthansa, the leading European airline group, reported a significant increase in its results for the third quarter compared to the same period last year, citing cost control and strong demand for flights. The company recorded a 30 percent increase in net profit during the third quarter, while its sales rose by 9 percent.

Fuel costs expected to rise in 2026

Lufthansa anticipates an increase in its kerosene bill in 2026 due to the Middle East conflict. Its chief financial officer, Till Streichert, stated that projected fuel costs for the entire year now amount to 9.3 billion euros, an increase of 600 million euros compared to the previous quarter.

Jet fuel prices continue to climb

The company expects an increase of 2 billion euros in its jet fuel costs over the course of one year. For the week of October 23, the average price per barrel of jet fuel was 197 dollars, 7 percent higher than in September and more than double the average price for the year 2025, where the barrel was priced at 90 dollars.

Other airlines face similar challenges

Other airlines have also expressed concerns about rising fuel costs. Ryanair's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, warned that airfares in Europe could increase by 10 to 20 percent in the coming year, citing inflationary pressures. Air France-KLM estimated that its fuel bill would reach 8.9 billion dollars in 2026, 2 billion more than the previous year.

Lufthansa absorbs rising energy costs

Despite the rising fuel costs, Lufthansa managed to absorb an increase of more than half a billion euros in its energy bill during the second quarter due to strong demand for flights and control of other costs. Demand was particularly supported by premium tickets and connections to Asia and North America.

Lufthansa adjusts 2026 profit expectations

Lufthansa now expects an operating result (EBIT) between 1.7 and 2 billion euros in 2026, compared to a previous range of 1.7 to 2.2 billion euros. The exact position of this range will depend not only on fuel costs and demand, but also and especially on the results of Lufthansa Cargo in the fourth quarter.