Air Arabia (PJSC), the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost airline operator, has released its financial and operational performance for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026.
The airline posted a net profit of AED278 million in Q1 2026, down 22 percent from AED355 million recorded during the same period in 2025. The decline was attributed to the ongoing regional conflict, which significantly affected capacity levels due to airspace shutdowns and temporary operational limitations.
Air Arabia generated AED1.8 billion in revenue during the opening quarter of 2026, reflecting a marginal 1 percent increase year-on-year.
Over the same period, the carrier served 4.7 million passengers across its operating hubs, representing a 5 percent decline compared to the first quarter of last year. Meanwhile, the average seat load factor increased by two percentage points year-on-year to 86 percent. The rise in revenue and load factor highlighted continued demand for Air Arabia’s services despite operational disruptions and reduced flight capacity during March.
Commenting on the performance, Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia, said the airline remained resilient amid a difficult first quarter shaped by regional conflict, airspace restrictions, and operational disruptions. He noted that the company’s ability to optimise capacity and sustain operational continuity helped minimise the impact during the challenging period.
He further stated that Air Arabia was satisfied with its solid first-quarter results despite the prevailing challenges, supported by sustained passenger demand across its network wherever operations continued. He added that the performance reflected the strength of the airline’s multi-hub strategy, disciplined cost controls, and commitment to operational efficiency and service quality.
During the first quarter of 2026, Air Arabia operated a fleet of 90 owned and leased Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft across its hubs in the UAE, Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan. The airline is also expected to receive additional aircraft deliveries later this year under its existing Airbus order programme.
In February, Air Arabia secured a place in Forbes Middle East’s Top 100 Most Valuable Companies 2026 ranking, highlighting its sustained financial resilience and operational capabilities.
