United Airlines shares fall 2.5% after weak Q3 guidance

United Airlines Holdings Inc. saw its stock decline on Thursday, July 16, 2026, after the company issued third-quarter earnings guidance that fell short of Wall Street expectations, despite reporting strong second-quarter results. The airline's shares fell approximately 2.5% in premarket and extended trading.

For the second quarter, United reported adjusted earnings of $1.99 per share on total operating revenue of $17.67 billion. These results exceeded analyst estimates, which had projected earnings between $1.85 and $1.89 per share on revenue of about $17.62 billion. The company's revenue represented a 16% increase compared to the same period in 2025, driven by growth across several segments. Premium cabin revenue rose 16%, while basic economy and loyalty program revenue each increased 11%. Cargo revenue climbed 23%, and contracted business revenue grew 27%.

However, investor focus shifted to the airline's outlook. United forecast third-quarter adjusted earnings in a range of $2.50 to $3.50 per share, with a midpoint of $3.00. This guidance was below the consensus analyst estimate of approximately $3.60 per share. The company also raised its full-year 2026 adjusted earnings per...