United Airlines Posts Quarterly Loss Despite Revenue Surge

New York — United Airlines reported on Tuesday a loss of $194 million in the first quarter but revenue surged and the outlook was positive as demand roars back after the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We are watching the macroeconomic risks carefully, but demand remains strong, especially internationally, where we are growing at twice the domestic rate," chief executive Scott Kirby said.

The Chicago-based carrier had posted a $1.4-billion loss in the first quarter of last year, when the Omicron strain was entrenched and triggering travel restrictions.

The company's revenue for the first quarter of 2023 rose 51% to $11.43 billion from $7.57 billion last year.

Going forward, the United is still dealing with surging jet fuel prices. Expenses related to salaries, airport fees and fleet maintenance was also impacting the bottom line.

United said it had re-launched routes not serviced since before the pandemic, principally between the US and destinations in China and Japan.

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