Air China’s H1 2026 operating loss widened 81% to CNY3.06 billion ($540 million) despite an 11% increase in revenue and improved passenger traffic and load factor. Net loss increased 27% to CNY3.43 billion as fuel costs rose 35% and aircraft/engine leasing expenses surged 76%, outweighing revenue growth.

Southwest Airlines and LOT Polish Airlines launched an interline partnership in September 2026, providing single-ticket connections between Southwest’s US network and LOT’s destinations across Central and Eastern Europe. LOT becomes Southwest’s 11th active interline partner, further expanding the carrier’s international connectivity.

Global passenger demand increased just 0.2% year-on-year in July 2026, as Middle East traffic fell 9.5% amid geopolitical tensions and North American demand declined 2.3%. Europe, Latin America and Africa recorded stronger growth, while Europe–Asia traffic surged 12.1% as passengers increasingly avoided Middle Eastern transfer hubs. Airlines remain cautiously positive, with global seat capacity expected to increase almost 3% in September.