How does the current decline in airline stocks compare to historical periods?

try{ var _=i o; . if(!_||_&&typeof _==="object"&&_.expiry Nasdaq slides 2%, S&P posts four-week losing streak as Iran conflict escalates Goldman Sachs flags these stocks as beneficiaries of gas price surge Citi says Brent crude prices could rise to this level in a prolonged Iran conflict UBS remains confident in U.S. stocks, sees S&P 500 hitting 7,700 🧠 Upgrade to AI Insights (South Africa Philippines Nigeria) 🧠 Upgrade to AI Insights How does the current decline in airline stocks compare to historical periods? By Author Simon Mugo Economy Published 03/21/2026, 03:59 AM How does the current decline in airline stocks compare to historical periods? 0 LCO 3.26% CL 2.27% DAL -2.42% UAL -4.46% ALK -2.69% AAL -3.43% Investing.com -- Major U.S. airlines are approaching a critical inflection point as the industry grapples with a sudden spike in energy costs that threatens to upend full-year profitability. According to a research note from UBS, several carriers are expected to issue mid-quarter updates this week, with analysts predicting a widespread suspension of fiscal year 2026 guidance. Get more insights by upgrading to InvestingPro - up to 50% discount now Strong demand and rising Revenue Per Available Seat Mile provided a tailwind early in the quarter, but the "significant uncertainty" surrounding fuel prices for the remainder of the year has shifted the focus toward a defensive posture. A “cushioned” first quarter Despite the recent volatility, the immediate impact on first-quarter earnings may be less severe than the headline fuel surge suggests. UBS analysts point out that airlines typically maintain a two-week fuel inventory, meaning the March price spike will likely only affect approximately 15 days of the current reporting period. The report notes, "This should cushion the drag to Q1 EPS," suggesting that most carriers will still manage to land within the mid-point of their previous guidance ranges. Performance is expected to be bifurcated across the sector. Un...