United Airlines Slashes Profit Forecast as Jet Fuel Surge Hits Carriers

United Airlines beat Q1 estimates with $1.19 adjusted EPS and $14.61bn revenue but cut full-year EPS guidance to $7–$11 from $12–$14, citing rising jet fuel costs at $2.78/gal tied to Middle East tensions. This follows Alaska Air's withdrawal of its full-year outlook after CEO Ben Minicucci flagged a $600M Q2 hit from Iran war-driven fuel spikes ($4.45–$5.15/gal), with only one-third recovered via 20% higher fares despite strong bookings. Refining squeezes and West Coast constraints amplify pressures, boosting oil upside while pressuring airline stocks.