United Airlines Reports 16% Revenue Rise as Fuel Costs Increase

United Airlines reported second-quarter operating revenue of $17.7 billion, a 16% increase from the same period last year. The airline increased fares on domestic and international routes and shifted more seats to premium categories. Fuel expense rose 84% compared with the prior-year quarter. The company said its fuel costs could increase by nearly $6 billion for the full year.

Revenue from premium seats increased 16% year over year, outpacing the 11% growth recorded in basic economy. The airline has added premium seats, lounge access, and other amenities in recent years. The company announced plans to install a new row configuration in its Economy Plus cabin in which the middle seat remains empty and a shared table is placed between the aisle and window seats.

A flight search engine reported average fare increases of 35% on popular domestic routes and 15% on international routes this summer. The company stated that passengers have accepted the higher prices without significant pushback. The airline also said it plans to equip 1,000 aircraft with satellite Wi-Fi service by the end of the year.