Amman, April 29 (Petra) -- Royal Jordanian Airlines reported a 15 percent increase in total operating revenue for the first quarter of 2026, reaching JD195.5 million compared to JD169.8 million during the same period last year.

Financial data released by the national carrier on Wednesday showed that passenger numbers rose to approximately 992,000, a 5 percent increase over the first quarter of 2025. Flight hours also saw significant growth, rising by 19 percent as the airline expanded its fleet and network.

However, the airline faced mounting financial pressure due to rising expenses. Operating costs jumped 12 percent to JD176.5 million. Consequently, Royal Jordanian recorded a net loss of JD13.6 million for the quarter, compared to a JD6 million loss in the prior-year period.

Samer Majali, Vice Chairman and CEO of Royal Jordanian, attributed the results to the exceptional circumstances that have unfolded since the outbreak of conflict on February 28. He noted that the ongoing geopolitical instability has cast a shadow over the aviation sector's financial performance.

Majali explained that the airline was forced to reroute several flights through longer alternative paths to avoid conflict zones. These diversions increased flight durations and inflated operating costs, particularly regarding fuel consumption and insurance premiums, placing additional strain on the company's bottom line.

Looking ahead to the second quarter, Majali warned that the airline continues to navigate a highly complex and volatile operating environment. He cited a sharp spike in fuel prices coupled with a significant drop in passenger demand. In response, the carrier plans to cancel or consolidate a substantial number of flights to align with actual demand levels and maintain operational efficiency.

Despite the current challenges, the airline is proceeding with its long-term strategic growth. Royal Jordanian recently added two new aircraft to its fleet for medium- and long-haul routes and inaugurated new destinations, including Misrata in Libya, Munich and Hamburg in Germany, and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates.

The CEO expressed the airline's commitment to mitigating the impact of these disruptions on travelers, advising passengers to monitor official channels for schedule updates while the company works to maintain vital transport links for the kingdom.

//Petra// AF

29/04/2026 20:47:45