AMMAN — Royal Jordanian Airlines reported “improved” operational performance during the first half of 2026, recording a net profit of JOD 1.4 million despite continued regional challenges, as the national carrier expanded its network, increased flight activity, and accelerated fleet modernization efforts.

 

In a statement to The Jordan Times, RJ said that its Board of Directors approved the financial results for the first six months of the year which showed growth in operating activity, with the airline continuing to implement its strategy to modernise its fleet, expand destinations, improve service standards, and enhance flight punctuality.

 

Royal Jordanian’s revenues increased by JOD 86 million, or 23 per cent, compared with the same period in 2025, supported by higher operating activity and the expansion of its route network, the statement said.

 

However, higher fuel prices, increased financing costs, and regional disruptions affected overall profitability, it said.

 

Operating expenses rose by JD69.5 million, with fuel costs accounting for nearly half of the increase.

 

Fuel expenses climbed by JD 33 million, or 37 per cent, due to higher global fuel prices, RJ said, adding that financing costs also increased by JD18 million, mainly due to higher interest rates on aircraft lease obligations, while the company’s share of profits from its subsidiary declined by JD6 million.

 

Royal Jordanian said it had carried 1.984 million passengers during the first half of 2026, marking a 5 per cent increase compared with the same period last year. “The airline operated 19,066 flights totaling 60,443 flight hours, representing increases of 14 per cent and 19 per cent, respectively. Air cargo volumes also grew by 36 per cent to reach 21,460 tonnes.”

 

Royal Jordanian Vice Chairman and CEO Samer Majali was quoted in the statement as saying that the government support in covering part of the increase in fuel costs helped reduce the impact of rising global prices and enabled the airline to maintain positive financial and operational results during an exceptional period.

 

Majali said that the company’s performance remained below the targets set in its 2026 budget due to geopolitical developments across the region and their impact on the aviation sector.

 

He highlighted that military escalation between the United States and Iran, along with repeated airspace closures, affected travel demand to Jordan, slowed tourism activity, and increased reliance on transit passengers.

 

The disruptions also affected Royal Jordanian’s supporting business units, including ground handling, cargo operations, and technical maintenance services, as several regional and international airlines reduced their operations in Jordan, he said.

 

The airline was also forced to temporarily suspend some flights, adjust schedules, and reroute aircraft through alternative corridors, resulting in longer flight times, higher fuel consumption, increased operating expenses, and additional insurance costs.

 

Majali praised the efforts of the Jordan Armed Forces, the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission, and relevant authorities in maintaining the safety of Jordan’s airspace and supporting the continuity of air operations.

 

He said that Royal Jordanian’s ability to maintain connectivity with global markets during the crisis reinforced its role as the Kingdom’s national carrier, whose responsibilities extend beyond commercial operations to supporting national interests and passengers.

 

Network expansion and fleet renewal

 

Majali said that Royal Jordanian continued expanding its international network during the first half of the year, launching new routes to destinations including Misrata, Munich, Hamburg, Sharjah, Alexandria, Dallas, Vienna, and Tashkent.

 

The expansion forms part of the airline’s strategy to strengthen Jordan’s links with regional and international markets, support tourism and trade, and enhance the Kingdom’s position on the global aviation map, he said.

 

He said that the airline also received seven new aircraft during the period, including two Boeing 787-9 aircraft for long-haul operations, four Airbus A320neo aircraft for medium-haul routes, and one Embraer aircraft for short-haul services.

 

With these additions, Royal Jordanian has introduced 19 new aircraft to its fleet over the past 12 months, making it one of the youngest fleets in the region.

 

Majali said that Royal Jordanian continued supporting national initiatives alongside its commercial operations, including supporting Jordan’s national football team during international competitions and operating a relief flight to Venezuela carrying Jordan’s Search and Rescue Team from the Public Security Directorate’s Civil Defense Directorate, along with equipment and supplies, following the earthquake there.

 

The airline also continued coordinating with authorities to assist Jordanian citizens and foreign nationals affected by crises abroad, he added.

 

Highlighting the importance of air cargo, Majali said the sector remains a key contributor to Jordan’s economy by supporting trade, supply chains, and exports. He added that Royal Jordanian is investing JOD 30 million in expanding and modernizing its air cargo terminal at Queen Alia International Airport.

 

Majali said the airline will continue monitoring regional developments and implementing necessary operational measures to ensure business continuity, maintain financial stability, and achieve its strategic objectives.