Emirates Net Profit Drops 66 Percent Amid Regional Conflict
Emirates reported a 66 percent decline in first-half net profit to 3.3 billion dirhams due to airspace disruptions and rising fuel costs.
The Emirates Group reported a 66 percent decline in net profit for the first half of the 2026-27 fiscal year, ending September 30. Net profit fell to 3.3 billion dirhams ($903 million), while revenue decreased 13 percent to 56.9 billion dirhams.
The airline attributed the financial losses to regional airspace disruptions caused by the US-Israeli war with Iran, which resulted in flight delays, cancellations, and diversions across the Middle East. These operational hurdles were compounded by soaring jet fuel prices. Passenger volume dropped 22 percent to 21.8 million people, and passenger-carrying capacity fell 17 percent.
By the end of September, the airline was operating 91 percent of its pre-disruption network. However, the Emirates Group noted that government travel advisories and recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia continue to hinder a full recovery. The group stated that intermittent airspace restrictions and closures across the region tested the airline's operational agility.
