Air France‑KLM posts revenue growth but trims flights as fuel costs rise

KLM, part of the Air France‑KLM group, reported first‑half 2026 revenue of €6.9 billion, an 8% increase over the same period last year, and an operating profit of €68 million, up €92 million year‑on‑year. CEO Marjan Rintel said the results show progress but are insufficient to make the airline financially robust, noting the need for further measures amid geopolitical uncertainty, rising fuel and material costs, and intense competition. The company highlighted productivity gains, cost‑saving initiatives such as the Back on Track programme, and strong demand on routes to Asia and the Americas, as well as the upcoming introduction of its first Airbus A350‑900 to support fleet renewal.

At the same time, Air France‑KLM announced a capacity reduction for its three main brands – Air France, KLM and low‑cost carrier Transavia – starting in October. The cut, driven by higher jet‑fuel prices, will affect roughly 1% of the total schedule, mainly on medium‑ and short‑haul routes with lower expected load factors. While Air France and KLM will feel the biggest impact, Transavia will continue modest growth, especially on routes to Spain, which help offset weaker demand elsewhere. The airline group aims to protect margins without raising ticket prices in a weak intra‑European demand environment.