JetBlue Airways Corporation provides air transportation services. The company operates a fleet of Airbus A321, Airbus A220, Airbus A321neo, Airbus A320 Restyled, Airbus A320, Airbus A321 with Mint, Airbus A321neo with Mint, Airbus A321neoLR with Mint, and Embraer E190 aircraft. It also serves 100 destinations across the United States, the Caribbean and Latin America, Canada, and Europe. The company was incorporated in 1998 and is based in Long Island City, New York.

JetBlue looks cheap on valuation multiples, but that cheapness is largely explained by weak profitability and a heavy debt burden. A P/S of 0.09 and P/B of 1.36 are below industry medians, which formally supports the idea of undervaluation; however, P/E and P/FCF are effectively uninformative because of negative/zero earnings and cash flow. Revenue remains large and above the industry median, but this does not translate into sustainable profit: TTM EPS is -0.66, net income is -$60 million, and forecast EPS is even weaker, indicating no visible turnaround on the near-term horizon. Operating margin and net margin are both zero, and operating income is only slightly positive, so earnings quality remains low. At the same time, gross margin looks stronger than the industry and remains at a high level, but the trend over the years is deteriorating rather than improving, which limits any re-rating. Liquidity is weak: a current ratio of 0.70 and quick ratio of 0.63 are well below normal, and cash on hand has declined compared with earlier periods. Debt remains a key risk: debt/equity of 5.04 is significantly above the industry, long-term debt is large and rising relative to capital, and equity is shrinking. ROE, ROA, ROI, and return on tangible equity are all zero, meaning capital is not generating an acceptable return, which typically keeps multiples subdued even when the stock price is low. Equity dynamics are also negative: net worth and total shareholder equity have declined noticeably over recent periods, weakening financial stability. The company’s strengths are its revenue scale and relatively low valuation multiples, but these are not yet supported by sustainable profitability or cash generation. For an investor, this means the stock may look inexpensive, but the discount is justified by elevated balance-sheet and operating risk. In this setup, a cautious downward revision of the valuation is appropriate, without an aggressive re-rating toward recovery.

JetBlue Airways Corporation

Сильный индекс, значительно вырос. Быки резко укрепили уверенность в своих позициях.

Strong index, significantly up. Bulls sharply strengthened confidence in their positions.

Слабый индекс, значительно вырос. Рынок не поддерживает быков.

Weak index, significantly up. The market does not support the bulls.

Сильный индекс, незначительно упал. Отток средств из лонгов на высоком уровне.

Strong index, slightly down. Outflow of funds from longs at a high level.

JBLU looks cheap on P/S and P/B, but weak profitability, low liquidity, and high debt justify a cautious discount to its valuation.

(RTTNews) - JetBlue Airways Corporation (JBLU) has opened bookings for BlueFirst, its new domestic first-class product, across more than 30 routes as the airline expands its higher-priced offerings in a push toward sustained profitability.
BlueFirst will operate on domestic routes that do not currently feature JetBlue's lie-flat Mint business class. The first service is scheduled for December 8 between Boston and Fort Lauderdale, followed by flights connecting Fort Lauderdale with New York's LaGuardia Airport and additional routes in the following months.
The seats recline up to five inches and provide up to seven inches more legroom than Main cabin seats. Passengers will also receive perks including Bluetooth-enabled seatback entertainment, food and beverages, priority boarding and expedited security.
JetBlue is offering three BlueFirst fare levels — Base, BlueFirst and Flex — with varying benefits for checked baggage, seat selection, changes and refunds. Introductory fares on select routes start at $249.

JetBlue Launches BlueFirst Domestic First Class Across More Then 30 Routes

Last week on Sept. 10, 2026, JetBlue Airways Corporation’s JBLU management unveiled updated financial guidance for the third quarter of 2026, citing concerns related to bad weather, air traffic control (ATC) issues and soaring jet fuel prices, with solid air travel demand being the only green flag.
Given this backdrop, the question that naturally arises is: Should investors buy, hold, or sell JBLU stock now? A more in-depth analysis is needed to make that determination. Before diving into JBLU’s investment prospects, let’s take a glance at its financial numbers.
JBLU Tweaks Q3 Outlook on Weather & ATC Issues
JetBlue had to bear operational disruption during July and August owing to recent weather events and ATC constraints, especially across the Northeast where JetBlue has majority network concentration. JBLU’s ATC-related cancellations nearly doubled, reflecting the greater operational impact in its core Northeast geographies. Additionally, severe airport-weather days across the National Airspace System surged more than 40% compared with the prior three-summer average.
These headwinds have compelled the low-cost carrier to increase its third-quarter costs per available seat mile (excluding fuel and special items) to the range of 6-8% from an earlier estimate of up 2.5% to 4.5% and lower its available seat miles (ASM) or capacity estimate for the third quarter to 1.5% to 3.5% from an earlier estimate of ASM growth of 3-6%.
Elevated fuel prices (all thanks to the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran) have been weighing on the bottom-line growth of all airline companies, and it is no different for JBLU. This is because fuel expenses represent a key input cost for airlines. Currently, oil prices are hovering around $100 a barrel. Rising jet fuel prices are pushing airlines to raise ticket prices and add steep fuel surcharges. JBLU raised its third-quarter 2026 average fuel cost per gallon guidance to the range of $3.96 from the prior guidance of $3.49.
On the flip side, JetBlue stands strong on the back of robust travel demand throughout the third quarter, with healthy booking trends continuing into September across both peak and off-peak travel periods. The combination of a solid underlying demand environment, a constructive pricing environment and targeted commercial actions has resulted in an encouraging third-quarter revenue outlook for JetBlue. JBLU anticipates third-quarter operating revenue per ASM (RASM) to increase in the range of 17-20% year over year, an improvement from the prior growth expectation of 12.5%-16.5%. Early fourth-quarter booking trends also raise optimism.
JetBlue Airways Corporation Revenue (TTM)
We would like to remind investors that JBLU assumes an estimated effective tax rate of almost 6% for the third quarter and full-year 2026, thereby portraying a non-cash impact from a valuation allowance included in the company’s forecasted annual effective tax rate.
Apart from JetBlue, other airline companies such as Southwest Airlines Co. (LUV), United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (UAL) and American Airlines (AAL), have also expressed concerns, at the recently held Morgan Stanley Laguna Conference, on capacity trimming, in the event of fuel prices continuing to soar.
Impressive Valuation Picture of JBLU Stock
From a valuation perspective, JBLU is trading at a discount compared to the industry, based on its forward 12-month price-to-sales ratio.
The stock has a forward 12-month P/S-F12M of 0.15X compared with 0.49X for the industry over the past five years. The company’s forward 12-month P/S-F12M ratio is also below the median level of 0.21X over the past five years. These factors indicate that the stock’s valuation is attractive.
JBLU P/S Ratio (Forward 12 Months) Vs. Industry
What Do Earnings Estimates Say for JBLU?
The negative sentiment surrounding JetBlue stock is evident from the fact that the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the third quarter of 2026 and the fourth quarter of 2026 earnings has been revised downward in the past 60 days. The consensus mark for 2026 and 2027 earnings has also been projected downward in the past 60 days.
The unfavorable estimate revisions indicate brokers’ lack of confidence in the stock.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Not an Opportune Time to Buy JBLU Stock
It is understood that JBLU stock is currently attractively valued, and upbeat air travel demand is contributing to JBLU’s top line, which has resulted in the bullish third-quarter 2026 RASM guidance. JetBlue's investment case is becoming more balanced as JetForward, premium products and a focused network support better revenue quality and a path back to profitability. Fort Lauderdale growth, loyalty engagement and the planned BlueFirst rollout add longer-term commercial upside, while management expects JetForward benefits to keep building.
Despite these positives, we advise investors not to buy JBLU stock now, as it continues to remain exposed to volatile fuel prices, rising operating costs and a heavy debt burden. The effects of the ongoing geopolitical tensions and uncertainty remain unpredictable. Henceforth, we advise investors to wait for a better entry point and not buy JetBlue now. For those who already own the stock, it will be prudent to stay invested. The company’s current Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) justifies our analysis. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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How Should Investors Approach JetBlue Stock Post Updated Q3 Outlook?

In a bid to widen its popularity in terms of services, JetBlue Airways (JBLU) is all set to pamper its customers with its newest domestic first-class experience, BlueFirst.
Building on JetBlue’s JetForward strategy, BlueFirst is set to offer specially designed seating for customers aspiring for extra comfort; advanced seatback technology with seatback ordering, seatback screens complete with Bluetooth connectivity and complimentaryFly-Fi high-speed Internet services and charging points. Apart from the aforesaid services, customers can enjoy additional hospitality in terms of blanket availability on overnight flights and a wide range of food and beverages.
BlueFirst customers are also likely to enjoy Group 1 boarding, overhead bin space, no cancellation fees, two free checked bags and priority baggage delivery, priority check-in and access to a fast-tracked lane to the security checkpoint in more than 30 airports.
Joanna Geraghty, chief executive officer of JetBlue, stated, “Domestic first class has become easy to predict. We think it’s time for a fresh take. Customers are increasingly looking for more premium experiences, and BlueFirst gives them an elevated experience that feels distinctly JetBlue, with thoughtful touches, caring service and great value. It’s another way we’re bringing our JetForward strategy to life and giving customers more reasons to choose JetBlue.”
To Conclude
The announcement of BlueFirst follows the recent opening of JBLU’s second BlueHouse airport lounge at Boston Logan International Airport Terminal, both being part of JetBlue’s broader JetForward strategy, which includes offering more premium, customer-centric experiences.
These events reflect JBLU’s portfolio expansion of its premium products to attract more customers through its enhanced travel experience and strengthen its network in the airline industry.
We would like to remind investors that JetBlue's persistent focus on investing in premium travel has helped it earn industry recognition in the form of multiple awards. These include ranking #1 in Customer Satisfaction among First/Business Class Passengers in the JD Power 2026 North America Airline Satisfaction Study for the second consecutive year and ranking #1 "Best Airport Lounge" in Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 for BlueHouse at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Zacks Rank and Stocks to Consider
Presently, JetBlue carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Investors interested in the Zacks Transportation sector may consider Expeditors International of Washington, Inc. EXPD and Seanergy Maritime Holdings SHIP as well.
Expeditors currently carries a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
EXPD has an expected earnings growth rate of 28.6% for 2026. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings outpaced the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 17.15%.
Seanergy Maritime Holdings currently sports a Zacks Rank #1.
SHIP has an expected earnings growth rate of more than 100% for the current year. The company has an encouraging earnings surprise history. Its earnings topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average beat of 38%.
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From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

JetBlue to Lure Customers With Its Advanced First Class Services

Allegiant Travel Company ALGT closed its acquisition of Sun Country on May 13, giving investors their first look at the combined operation in the second quarter. The early results showed more scale, broader revenues and a larger integration workload.
Management expects at least $140 million of annual run-rate synergies within three years of closing. Reaching that target will depend on combining systems, procurement and network planning while managing fuel, labor and balance-sheet pressures.
ALGT Adds Sun Country to a Broader Network
The combination expands Allegiant’s leisure-focused platform across nearly 175 cities and 650 routes. Sun Country adds scheduled passenger service, charter flying and cargo operations, broadening the revenue base and giving the company more ways to flex capacity around demand.
Integration is already moving beyond ownership. Cross-brand flight search is live and supplier consolidation is underway. Alaska Air Group, Inc. ALK offers a useful industry reference point because its Alaska-Hawaiian combination reached a single passenger service system in the second quarter, showing how airline integration continues well after closing.
Allegiant Q2 Shows Early Consolidation Scale
Sun Country contributed $167.3 million of revenues from the May 13 close through quarter-end. Consolidated second-quarter revenues rose 36.9% year over year to $943.5 million, while adjusted operating income reached $87.1 million and adjusted operating margin was 9.2%.
Allegiant Travel Company Revenue (TTM)
The consolidated numbers also show the mix Sun Country brings. During the post-closing period, it contributed $27.6 million of cargo revenues and $31.2 million of fixed-fee contract revenues, adding contracted flying alongside Allegiant’s scheduled leisure model.
ALGT Targets $140M in Annual Run-Rate Synergies
Management expects at least $140 million of annual run-rate synergies within three years of the transaction close. The integration plan includes network optimization and supplier consolidation, while a transition plan for a single operating certificate has been submitted to the Federal Aviation Administration.
The target matters because the benefits are not automatic. Systems integration, fleet and network coordination and organizational changes can take time, and the company’s risk disclosures acknowledge that expected savings or growth could be delayed or cost more than planned.
Allegiant Integration Raises Debt and Cost Pressure
Consolidated debt ended June at $2.8 billion, including $546.8 million of debt and finance lease obligations attributable to Sun Country. Net debt was $1.7 billion. Allegiant also expects roughly $850 million of 2026 capital expenditures across aircraft, deferred heavy maintenance and other airline spending.
Fuel adds another constraint. The consolidated average fuel cost was $4.14 per gallon in the second quarter, up 71.1% year over year. JetBlue Airways Corporation JBLU faced a similar fuel shock, reporting a $4.23 average fuel price and using commercial and capacity actions to recover part of the increase.
ALGT Capacity Discipline Shapes the Near-Term Test
Management expects third-quarter system capacity to decline about 6.5% year over year and scheduled-service capacity to fall roughly 5.5%. Adjusted operating margin is projected between 1% and 3%, with adjusted earnings expected between a loss of $1 per share and breakeven.
The company expects third-quarter unit revenue growth to remain roughly in line with standalone Allegiant’s 24.6% second-quarter increase. Preserving peak-period flying while trimming weaker off-peak capacity is central to supporting revenue quality as integration work continues.
ALGT Signals Back the Theme With Caveats
The Sun Country deal gives Allegiant more scale and revenue diversity, but the investment case now depends on translating integration milestones into measurable savings without allowing fuel, labor or capital needs to overwhelm those benefits.
ALGT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), with a Value Score of A, a Growth Score of B, a Momentum Score of F and a VGM Score of B. The A and B grades are favorable, while the F Momentum Score is the weakest. Combined with Rank #3, the mix supports a measured near-term view as integration execution develops. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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ALGT Targets $140M in Synergies as Sun Country Integration Begins

Allegiant Travel Company ALGT shares have plunged 16.6% in the past four weeks even as second-quarter adjusted earnings sharply exceeded expectations and standalone unit revenue reached a quarterly record.
The pullback puts the focus on whether better revenue productivity can outweigh volatile fuel costs, Sun Country integration demands, higher debt and continued capacity discipline.
ALGT's Q2 Beat Shows Earnings Resilience
Second-quarter adjusted earnings of $2.19 per share increased 78% year over year and beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.27 by 72.4%. Standalone Allegiant revenues rose 16.1% to a record $776.2 million.
Allegiant Travel Company Price and EPS Surprise
Standalone total revenue per available seat mile, or TRASM, increased 24.6% to a record 14.42 cents despite a 6.8% capacity reduction. Peak-period scheduling and commercial initiatives helped lift revenue productivity even with fewer available seat miles.
Allegiant's Revenue Mix Broadens After the Deal
Consolidated passenger revenues increased 33.1% to $822.5 million, third-party product revenues rose 36% to $45.8 million and fixed-fee contract revenues climbed 168.7% to $45.7 million.
Sun Country contributed $167.3 million of consolidated revenues from the May 13 acquisition close through quarter-end, including $27.6 million of cargo revenues. The broader mix adds contracted and cargo exposure alongside Allegiant's scheduled leisure business.
ALGT's Costs and Debt Keep Pressure Elevated
Total operating expenses increased 21.9% to $922.4 million, while aircraft fuel expense jumped 85.6% to $307.7 million. The consolidated average fuel cost rose 71.1% to $4.14 per gallon. Total debt ended June at $2.8 billion and net debt was $1.7 billion.
Fuel pressure is not unique to Allegiant. JetBlue Airways Corporation JBLU reported a second-quarter average fuel price of $4.23 per gallon, about 76% higher year over year. Alaska Air Group ALK reported an economic fuel cost of $4.43 per gallon, up 85%, showing the industry-wide sensitivity to fuel.
Allegiant's Capacity Cuts Test Demand Quality
For the third quarter, management expects system capacity to decline about 6.5% year over year and scheduled-service capacity to fall roughly 5.5%. Adjusted operating margin is projected between 1% and 3%.
Management expects combined-company unit revenue growth to be roughly in line with standalone Allegiant's 24.6% second-quarter increase. That makes pricing and demand quality important as the company trims off-peak flying while preserving peak-period capacity.
ALGT Valuation Is Not Yet a Clear Bargain
ALGT trades at 0.6X forward 12-month sales compared with 0.5X for the Zacks sub-industry. The stock's multiple is also in line with its five-year median of 0.6X.
The company's five-year forward sales range extends from 0.2X to 2.1X. The recent decline has lowered the share price, but the current multiple remains near the middle of its own historical valuation range rather than at an obvious extreme discount. That leaves operating execution more important than relying on multiple expansion.
ALGT Signals Mix Value With Weak Momentum
The 16.6% four-week decline has lowered the share price, but operating execution remains central. Record unit revenue and broader revenue sources are positives, while fuel volatility, integration work, debt and lower planned capacity keep the investment setup balanced.
ALGT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), with a Value Score of A, a Growth Score of B, a Momentum Score of F and a VGM Score of B. Within the Style Score hierarchy, A and B are favorable grades while F is the weakest. Combined with the #3 Rank, the signals support a selective rather than aggressive stance. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
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ALGT Dips 16.6% in a Month as Airline Risks Challenge the Bull Case

JetBlue Airways Corporation JBLU shares have gained 22.2% in the past three months, putting the durability of the rebound in focus. Better revenue trends and firmer earnings-estimate revisions have improved the near-term setup.
The rally still faces a demanding test. JetBlue remains unprofitable, fuel costs have climbed sharply and leverage is high, leaving further upside dependent on revenue gains translating into a clearer margin recovery.
JBLU’s Three-Month Gain Comes With Better Momentum
JBLU’s 12-week price change of 22.2% is backed by a 3.4% gain over the past four weeks. The stock also carries a Momentum Score of A, the strongest of its individual Zacks Style Scores.
The move has occurred while JetBlue’s commercial performance improved. Second-quarter revenue per available seat mile, or RASM, increased 10.9% year over year, while capacity rose 3.2%, showing that unit revenues advanced faster than available seat miles.
JetBlue’s Earnings Revisions Are Moving Higher
The current-fiscal-year earnings estimate increased 7.7% over four weeks and 21.9% over 12 weeks. That direction is relevant because the Zacks Rank is driven by earnings-estimate revisions, giving the recent price momentum a firmer estimate backdrop.
JetBlue also posted a 5.7% earnings surprise in the second quarter. The result was still a loss of 66 cents per share, however, so upward revisions should be viewed as an improvement in expectations rather than proof that profitability has returned.
JBLU’s Revenue Outlook Supports the Bull Case
Management expects third-quarter RASM to rise 12.5-16.5% year over year on capacity growth of 3-6%. For full-year 2026, JetBlue forecasts RASM growth of 10-12.5% while capacity is expected to increase 1.5-3.5%.
JetBlue Airways Corporation Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Premium and loyalty demand also matter in the broader airline backdrop. Delta Air Lines DAL reported 17% growth in second-quarter premium-product ticket revenues, while United Airlines Holdings UAL reported 14% first-quarter premium revenue growth. JetBlue’s own premium RASM rose about 13% in the second quarter.
JetBlue Still Faces Fuel and Leverage Risks
Second-quarter aircraft fuel expense surged 80.7% year over year to $911 million as the average fuel cost per gallon increased 76.3% to $4.23. Total operating expenses rose 20.8%, contributing to a $141 million operating loss.
Debt and financing costs add another constraint. Total debt was about $8.48 billion at June 30, 2026, while 2026 interest expense is expected to be about $590 million. JetBlue still projects a negative adjusted operating margin of 2-5% for the year.
JBLU’s Mixed Scores Temper the Rally Case
The rally has better support than it did earlier, but the investment picture remains mixed. Stronger unit-revenue growth, positive estimate revisions and JetForward progress can sustain interest in the shares, while fuel volatility, losses and debt leave little room for execution slippage.
JBLU currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Its Momentum Score of A contrasts with a Value Score of D, Growth Score of F and VGM Score of F. The combination favors patience: momentum is favorable, but the broader Style Score profile does not yet provide the kind of all-around confirmation associated with top-ranked stocks.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

JetBlue Stock Is Up 22.2% in Three Months. Can the Rally Continue?

JetBlue Airways Corporation JBLU reported a second-quarter 2026 loss of 66 cents per share, narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of 70 cents. The result marked a 5.7% earnings surprise, though the loss widened from a year ago.
Operating revenues of $2.7 billion beat the consensus estimate by 0.1% and rose 14.5% year over year. Strong demand and commercial execution lifted revenue per available seat mile, or RASM, 10.9%.
JBLU's Traffic and Pricing Metrics Improve
Passenger revenues increased 14.1% year over year to $2.49 billion, just ahead of our estimate of $2.47 billion. Other revenues climbed 18.6% to $210 million, surpassing our estimate of $188 million. Revenue passengers rose 5.1% and revenue passenger miles advanced 4.1%.
Capacity, measured in available seat miles, increased 3.2%. Load factor (% of seats filled by passengers) improved 0.8 percentage points to 82.7%, matching our estimate, while the average fare rose 8.6% to $237.38. Yield per passenger mile increased 9.6% to 17.53 cents.
JetBlue's Costs Rise on Fuel Pressure
Total operating expenses increased 20.8% year over year to $2.84 billion. Aircraft fuel expense surged 80.7% to $911 million as the average fuel cost per gallon climbed 76.3% to $4.23. Salaries, wages and benefits rose 2.7% to $875 million.
Operating expense per available seat mile increased 17% to 16.53 cents. Excluding fuel and other non-airline expenses, unit costs rose 2.4% to 11.12 cents. JBLU posted an operating loss of $141 million, compared with operating income of $6 million a year ago, while operating margin contracted 5.5 percentage points to negative 5.2%.
JetBlue Airways Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
JBLU Builds Momentum Across Commercial Initiatives
Premium RASM increased about 13%, while Main Cabin RASM grew 11%. Loyalty revenues rose 13%, supported by record co-brand account engagement, nearly 40% growth in new premium card acquisitions and a 21% increase in loyalty cash remuneration.
JetBlue also highlighted progress in Fort Lauderdale, where RASM rose 11% despite nearly 40% capacity growth. The carrier is restructuring schedules to improve connectivity and expects to operate more than 150 daily departures from the airport this winter.
JetBlue Advances JetForward Execution
JetForward generated $470 million of cumulative incremental EBIT through June 2026. The company remains on track to deliver an annual incremental EBIT benefit of $850-$950 million by year-end 2027.
Operational initiatives also produced gains. On-time arrival performance within 14 minutes improved about 1 point, while Net Promoter Score increased 5 points year over year. JetBlue is using digital tools, predictive analytics and improved routing to raise productivity, fuel efficiency and disruption management.
JBLU Maintains Liquidity Amid Heavy Obligations
Cash and cash equivalents totaled $1.66 billion at June 30, 2026, down from $1.95 billion at Dec. 31, 2025. Investment securities stood at $512 million. Total debt was $8.48 billion, while stockholders’ equity declined to $1.59 billion from $2.12 billion.
Second-quarter capital expenditures, including predelivery deposits, were $234 million. For the first six months of 2026, capital expenditures and predelivery deposits totaled $375 million, compared with $496 million in the prior-year period.
JetBlue Reestablishes 2026 Outlook
For the third quarter of 2026, JBLU expects capacity growth of 3-6% and RASM growth of 12.5-16.5%. CASM, excluding fuel, is projected to increase 2.5-4.5%, while fuel price per gallon is estimated at $3.49. Capital expenditures are forecasted at about $300 million.
For 2026, capacity is expected to rise 1.5-3.5%, with RASM growth of 10-12.5% and CASM ex-fuel rise of 2-4%. Adjusted operating margin is projected between negative 2% and negative 5%. Interest expense is expected to be about $590 million, with capital expenditures of roughly $850 million.
JBLU Sets a 2028 Earnings Target
JetBlue introduced a target of at least $1 in earnings per share for 2028. The goal assumes continued demand strength and an average jet fuel price of $3 per gallon.
The target is supported by expectations for JetForward to deliver about $1.2 billion in annual incremental EBIT in 2028. BlueFirst, the airline’s new domestic first-class product, is expected to begin sales in fall 2026, with most retrofit work scheduled for completion by year-end 2027.
JBLU currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Q2 Performance of Other Airline Companies
Delta Air Lines DAL reported second-quarter 2026 earnings (excluding 88 cents from non-recurring items) of $1.56 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.51. Earnings declined in double digits (% wise) from a year ago as sharply higher fuel costs pressured profitability.
Revenues rose on a year-over-year basis to $17.67 billion but missed the consensus estimate of $17.76 billion. Broad demand strength lifted adjusted total revenue per available seat mile (“TRASM”) by 12.4%, while premium and diversified revenue streams continued to expand.
United Airlines UAL reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.99 per share, down 48.6% year over year but above the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.92 by 3.7%.
Operating revenues rose 16% to $17.67 billion and were essentially in line with the $17.68-billion consensus mark. A 12.1% increase in TRASM and broad-based gains across premium, loyalty and cargo revenues supported the top line despite sharply higher fuel costs.
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JBLU Q2 Earnings Beat on Strong RASM Growth, Revenues Rise

(RTTNews) - JetBlue Airways (JBLU) reported a second quarter net loss of $247 million, compared to a net loss of $74 million, in the same period of 2025. Loss per common share was $0.66 compared to a loss of $0.21. Net loss excluding special items and gain on investments was $247 million compared to a loss of $58 million. Excluding special items and gain on investments, loss per share was $0.66 compared to a loss of $0.16.
Total operating revenues increased 14.5% to $2.697 billion in the three-month period, driven by a 14.1% rise in passenger revenues to $2.487 billion and an 18.6% increase in other revenues. The company noted that its RASM increased 10.9% and CASM ex-fuel increased 2.4% from a year ago, both ahead of revised guidance midpoints despite elevated fuel prices and ATC constraints.
JetBlue Airways Reestablished full year guidance with second half RASM exceeding CASM-ex by double digits. Fiscal 2026 RASM is projected to rise 10.0% - 12.5%.
The company said JetForward remains on track to deliver at least $310 million of incremental EBIT in 2026 and $850 - $950 million of annual incremental EBIT benefit by year-end 2027. The company introduced a long-term financial target of at least $1.00 in earnings per share for 2028.
In pre-market trading on NasdaqGS, JetBlue shares are up 0.78 percent to $5.47.
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

JetBlue Airways Posts Wider Loss In Q2; Projects At Least $1.00 EPS By 2028

Alaska Air Group (ALK) came out with a quarterly loss of $0.92 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of $0.97. This compares to earnings of $1.78 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +5.16%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this airline would post a loss of $1.61 per share when it actually produced a loss of $1.68, delivering a surprise of -4.35%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
Alaska Air, which belongs to the Zacks Transportation - Airline industry, posted revenues of $4.07 billion for the quarter ended June 2026, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.73%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $3.7 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Alaska Air shares have lost about 8.5% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 8.7%.
What's Next for Alaska Air?
While Alaska Air has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Alaska Air was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $1.41 on $4.31 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and -$0.06 on $15.85 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Transportation - Airline is currently in the top 31% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
One other stock from the same industry, JetBlue Airways (JBLU), is yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2026. The results are expected to be released on July 28.
This airline is expected to post quarterly loss of $0.70 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -337.5%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 26.4% higher over the last 30 days to the current level.
JetBlue Airways' revenues are expected to be $2.7 billion, up 14.4% from the year-ago quarter.
Should You Invest in Alaska Air Group, Inc. (ALK)?
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The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Alaska Air Group (ALK) Reports Q2 Loss, Lags Revenue Estimates

(RTTNews) - JetBlue Airways (JBLU) said it has secured Spirit Airlines' operating slots at New York's LaGuardia Airport, gaining the rights for 12 daily round-trip flights through Spirit's bankruptcy process. The deal still needs final court and regulatory approval.
JetBlue said it's reviewing how to use the slots as part of its broader network strategy, and that any service expansion tied to the acquisition would likely start in 2027.
The airline also plans to return to LaGuardia's Marine Air Terminal (Terminal A) the Art Deco building that served as Spirit's base until the carrier stopped operating in May. JetBlue previously operated from the terminal before moving to a newer facility, and said Terminal A remains a favorite with travelers.
The move reshuffles some of LaGuardia's most valuable airport assets, where strict slot controls make it difficult for airlines to add flights.
It also comes as JetBlue continues expanding at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport while reducing its staffing footprint at LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airport. Spirit's remaining airport assets are still being sold through U.S. Bankruptcy Court following the airline's collapse.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

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