Aer Lingus reports €34m loss ahead of planned job cuts

Aer Lingus announced plans to cut almost 500 jobs earlier this month. Picture: Larry Cummins

Aer Lingus reported an operating loss of €34m for the first half of 2026, compared to an operating profit of €80m for the same period last year.

The airline blamed an 8% rise in costs and a 3% decrease in passenger revenues for the loss. It said passenger numbers increased by 1.2% but increased competition impacted fare revenue, particularly on the North Atlantic.
However, it said the €106m operating loss in the first quarter was followed by a second quarter profit of €69m.

Aer Lingus said the loss reflects structural challenges, including significantly increased competition, particularly across the North Atlantic, increased supplier and carbon costs, macro-economic impact on demand, a weaker yield environment and increased seasonality of the airline’s business. The airline has also faced significantly elevated fuel costs in 2026. 

Aer Lingus recently announced a series of changes to cut costs, including reducing overall flying capacity by 6% and plans to cut almost 500 jobs. The airline said it aims to achieve and sustain a 12% to 15% operating margin in its business to attract investment over the medium term.

Lynne Embleton, Chief Executive, Aer Lingus, said: “Aer Lingus is facing ongoing structural challenges in its operating environment, whilst also being impacted by elevated fuel costs, both of which are reflected in the H1 financials."

"The steps taken to accelerate the transformation of the business will assist in addressing the structural challenges by reducing cost, improving efficiency and improving operating margin. This will create the platform to attract investment, improve our customer experience, support future growth and build a stronger Aer Lingus for the future.”