Emirates airline posts $903m in half-year profit amid regional disruptions

Dubai's Emirates airline reported a 66% drop in half-year profits after tax to Dh3.3 billion ($903 million) in the six months to September, as regional disruptions due to the Iran war and soaring fuel costs hit the business. Revenue for the same period fell 13% year-on-year to Dh56.9 billion, the airline disclosed on Thursday. Emirates chairman and CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed attributed the challenge to the airline's robust business model and workforce, stating that the company weathered previous difficulties and was well-positioned to handle current headwinds.

The airline saw 21.8 million passengers during the period, a 22% decline compared to the same time last year. Despite the setbacks, Emirates Group's half-year profit after tax reached Dh3.6 billion, with total revenue hitting Dh66.2 billion. Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the Group's resilience, highlighting the capabilities of its people in navigating the turbulent economic environment.