Paris, February 19, 2026 – The Europe Today: Air France-KLM reported a record operating profit of more than €2 billion for 2025, driven by robust demand for premium travel and lower fuel prices.
The Franco-Dutch airline group said it carried over 100 million passengers during the year, with operating earnings rising by €400 million compared with 2024. The result comfortably exceeded analyst forecasts of €1.88 billion, according to media reports.
Executives attributed the strong performance to the company’s strategic focus on enhancing the premium customer experience. Significant investments were made in upgraded first-class cabins, modernized airport lounges, and faster onboard Wi-Fi services. Demand for high-end travel remained particularly strong on transatlantic routes, contributing significantly to revenue growth.
In addition to strong ticket sales, the group benefited from lower fuel costs. However, some expenses continued to rise, including higher airport charges at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which weighed on per-passenger yields.
Expansion Plans and Long-Term Targets
Looking ahead, Air France-KLM plans to expand its capacity by 3% to 5% in 2026 as new aircraft are introduced into the fleet. The company is targeting an operating margin above 8% by 2028, compared with the 6.1% margin reported for 2025.
Investor confidence in the airline’s premium-focused strategy has strengthened, with shares rising nearly 34% over the past year despite ongoing labor and cost pressures.
The latest results underscore the group’s resilience and strategic positioning in a competitive global aviation market, particularly in the lucrative premium travel segment.
