News Brief: Southwest Airlines Cuts Earnings Forecast
Summary
Southwest Airlines has lowered its 2025 earnings forecast, primarily due to reduced demand during the recent federal government shutdown and increased fuel costs. The airline now expects significantly lower earnings than previously projected.
Key Points
- Forecast Reduced: 2025 EBIT forecast cut to ~$500M from $600M-$800M.
- Primary Reasons: Demand dip during the historic 40+ day government shutdown and higher fuel prices.
- Current Status: Bookings have reportedly returned to expected levels post-shutdown.
- Industry Impact: Delta Air Lines also reported a $200M profit loss from the shutdown, though it remains optimistic about 2026 demand.
- Operational Disruption: The shutdown caused air traffic controller shortages, leading to mandatory flight cancellations and schedule cuts that sometimes exceeded requirements.
新闻简报：西南航空下调盈利预期
摘要
西南航空下调了其2025年盈利预期，主要原因是近期联邦政府停摆期间需求下降以及燃油成本上涨。该航空公司目前的盈利预期较此前大幅降低。
关键点
- 预期下调：2025年息税前利润（EBIT）预期从6-8亿美元下调至约5亿美元。
- 主要原因：历史性的40多天政府停摆期间需求下降，以及燃油价格上涨。
- 现状：据报道，停摆结束后，预订量已恢复至预期水平。
- 行业影响：达美航空也报告因停摆损失2亿美元利润，但对2026年需求表示乐观。
- 运营中断：停摆导致空中交通管制员短缺，引发强制性航班取消和航班时刻削减，有时甚至超出要求范围。
Original Article Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/05/airlines-government-shutdown-earnings-impact.html