The multi-hub model and strong cost discipline helped offset the impact of regional disruptions.
Air Arabia (PJSC), the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier, has announced its financial and operational results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026.
The airline posted a net profit of Dh278 million in Q1 2026, marking a 22% decline from the Dh355 million recorded during the corresponding period last year.
The decline was mainly attributed to the ongoing regional conflict, which led to a significant reduction in capacity due to airspace closures and temporary operational restrictions.
The airline posted a turnover of Dh1.8 billion in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting a 1% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
During the quarter, Air Arabia transported 4.7 million passengers across its operating hubs, representing a 5% decline year-on-year. Meanwhile, the average seat load factor — the percentage of available seats occupied by passengers — increased by 2 percentage points to 86%.
The increase in revenue and seat load factor underscores strong demand for Air Arabia’s services during the first quarter, despite operational challenges and reduced flight capacity in March.
Commenting on the results, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia, said the airline demonstrated strong resilience and agility despite a challenging first quarter marked by airspace restrictions and operational disruptions caused by the regional conflict. He noted that the company’s ability to optimise capacity and maintain operational continuity helped mitigate the impact during the ongoing period of uncertainty.
He added that the airline delivered a solid first-quarter performance, supported by sustained passenger demand across its network wherever operations continued. He said the results reflected the strength of Air Arabia’s multi-hub business model, disciplined cost management, and continued focus on operational efficiency and service excellence.
During the first quarter of 2026, the airline operated a fleet of 90 owned and leased Airbus A320 and Airbus A321 aircraft across its hubs in the UAE, Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan.
Additional aircraft deliveries are expected throughout the year under the airline’s existing Airbus order book.
In February, Air Arabia was named among Forbes Middle East’s Top 100 Most Valuable Companies 2026, highlighting its continued financial strength and operational performance.
Sustainable growth
As part of its commitment to strengthening environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, Air Arabia secured a Limited Assurance Statement for its 2025 ESG Report, conducted in accordance with the International Standard on Assurance Engagements (ISAE) 3000.
The achievement highlights the airline’s continued focus on transparency, accountability, and sustainable long-term growth.
Looking ahead, the airline noted that ongoing uncertainty continues to impact aviation operations both regionally and globally, contributing to fuel price volatility, rising inflationary costs, and pressure on global supply chains, trade, and logistics.
Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani said that despite these challenges, the airline remains confident in the strength of the local and regional economies it serves and will continue to navigate the environment with discipline and agility while delivering exceptional value to customers.
