Rising Fuel Costs and Labor Deals Impact Company Profits: A Look at the Challenges Faced by Airlines and Other Industries
- Advertisement -
Companies Warn of Profit Losses Due to Rising Fuel Costs and Employee Pay Hikes
Fuel Costs and Labor Deals Impacting Profits
Several companies, ranging from aerospace manufacturers to package delivery giant UPS, are facing challenges as the cost of fuel and employee wages rise. Unions across industries, including the auto industry and Hollywood, are also advocating for better compensation.
Airlines Hit Hard by Increased Expenses
Airlines, which heavily rely on jet fuel and labor, are particularly affected by these rising costs. Delta Air Lines, for example, recently lowered its third-quarter earnings forecast due to higher-than-expected fuel and maintenance expenses.
According to Airlines for America, jet fuel prices at major airports have increased by 38% in the past two months.
Labor Deals and Compensation Increases
American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines have all revised their earnings forecasts due to expensive fuel and new labor agreements. American Airlines anticipates a significant expense of $230 million for a new pilot contract, which includes substantial raises and increased compensation.
Additionally, UPS and the Teamsters union reached a new labor deal that includes raises for both full-time and part-time workers.
- Advertisement -
Impact on Company Expenses
UPS disclosed that the costs associated with their labor deal will increase at a compound annual growth rate of 3.3% over the next five years. Brian Newman, the company’s CFO, stated that the expenses will be $500 million higher than expected in the latter half of 2023.
Labor Negotiations in Other Industries
The United Auto Workers and Detroit automakers are currently in labor talks, but there is a significant gap between their demands. The Hollywood writers and actors unions have also gone on strike to demand better pay in response to changes in the entertainment-streaming era.
Challenges for Airlines during Slower Travel Period
While strong travel demand has helped major airlines cover their increased expenses, some carriers, like Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines, are experiencing lower sales and forecasting losses for the quarter.
Note: This article includes contributions from Visegrad Info 24’s Michael Wayland and Gabriel Cortes.