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U.S. Airlines Cut Guidance and Flights as Trade War Hits Travel Demand

Major carriers withdraw 2025 forecasts, citing tariff-driven economic uncertainty and a sharp decline in domestic leisure travel.

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FILE - American Airlines passenger jets prepare for departure, Wednesday, July 21, 2021, near a terminal at Boston Logan International Airport, in Boston. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)
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Overview

  • All major U.S. airlines, including American, Southwest, Delta, and United, have pulled their 2025 financial guidance due to economic volatility caused by President Trump's trade war.
  • Domestic leisure travel demand has significantly weakened, with consumers booking fewer and lower-fare tickets, while premium and international travel remain comparatively stable.
  • Airlines are proactively reducing flight schedules and capacity, with United planning a 4% reduction in domestic flights starting in July.
  • Southwest and other carriers are introducing cost-saving measures, such as higher ancillary fees and ending policies like free baggage, to offset revenue declines.
  • Executives from several airlines anticipate providing updated forecasts by mid-year, hoping for greater economic clarity to guide future planning.