Southwest Airlines (LUV.US) lowers 2026 profit guidance: rising fuel costs, but record Q3 revenue and strong demand underpin earnings resilience.

Zhitong Finance APP has learned that Southwest Airlines (LUV.US) announced its third-quarter 2026 results after the market close on October 21, becoming the third major U.S. airline this month to cut its full-year 2026 profit forecast due to rising fuel prices. Despite a significant increase in fuel costs, the company still achieved record revenue in the third quarter, driving a substantial year-over-year expansion in profit margin; CEO Bob Jordan said that despite higher fares, travelers continue to book and demand remains strong.