Delta Air Lines lowered its 2026 earnings forecast to $5.10–$5.60 per share, from $6.50–$7.50 previously, saying annual fuel costs will rise by about $6bn as US–Iran tensions push up global jet fuel prices. The Atlanta-based carrier, the first major US airline to report, said demand remains strong, with 60 percent of fourth-quarter seats booked and premium revenue up 18 percent, though lower-income travellers are cutting back as US consumer sentiment weakens. The results signal cost pressure for the wider industry, with United Airlines due to report on October 20.