Flag carrier of the United Kingdom; headquartered near Heathrow
The US and Iran have exchanged strikes this week after attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump has said the interim ceasefire is "over" while US forces have carried out multiple strikes and revoked a temporary waiver on Iranian oil sales. Mediators are working to restart talks as oil prices and markets react to renewed hostilities (10 Jul 2026).
Delta Air Lines has expanded its Basic fare option beyond economy, introducing Basic First Basic, Premium Select Basic and Basic Business. The move, which follows United’s similar segmentation, unbundles premium travel to offer lower prices with trade-offs in seat selection, lounge access and mileage earning. The development signals airlines’ broader strategy to tailor premium experiences while managing costs amid strong demand.
Former John Lewis chair Sir Charlie Mayfield leads a taskforce to cut sickness absence, arguing that reducing ill-health-related unemployment could unlock significant growth. More than 250 major employers have signed up, aiming to track absence, return-to-work outcomes, and disability participation to reveal health performance in workplaces.
UK authorities are coordinating with airlines and remaining refineries to safeguard jet fuel supply amid rising costs tied to the Iran war and disruption in Middle East shipping routes. Government and industry sources say airlines continue normal operations, but more flexibility and gear-up in stock management are under way as prices remain volatile.
As jet fuel costs surge amid the Middle East conflict, airlines are cancelling, consolidating, or delaying flights. Passengers are changing plans, booking earlier, or shifting to rail, with governments offering contingency measures to protect summer travel.
Airlines face higher fuel bills as Middle East tensions push jet fuel prices up. IATA forecasts profits will halve in 2026 while fares rise to cover costs; some carriers warn of tougher times ahead as demand stays resilient.
Airlines are expanding premium cabins and adding routes to host World Cup cities as bookings rise in June and July. United, Delta and others are boosting capacity with larger aircraft and special routes, while some markets see premium pricing and strategic network adjustments.
Global airlines face a sharp rise in jet-fuel costs as conflict in the Middle East pushes up oil prices. IATA now forecasts profits will fall sharply in 2026, driving airlines to raise fares and adjust routes while governments seek safety measures.
A Delta passenger has been indicted for interfering with flight crew after an in-flight incident on May 9, prompting a mid-air diversion. The flight attendant reported being slapped as service was being conducted; the plane landed in Atlanta where the suspect was detained and is awaiting trial.
A string of aviation incidents has triggered renewed safety questions. A British Airways flight experienced a cell phone fire on board but landed safely; other incidents include a Turkish Airlines wing collision and an American Airlines lightning strike. Aviation bodies emphasize carrying devices in carry-on luggage and evacuations rules.
EasyJet has agreed in principle to a £5.5 billion takeover by US investor Castlelake, valuing the carrier at £6.90 a share. The board says it would be minded to recommend a firm offer should one be tabled. Deadline for a formal bid is August 3.