International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus, has reported a 16% decline in second-quarter operating profit, citing higher fuel costs and weaker travel demand resulting from the ongoing Middle East conflict. The airline group also expects its overall capacity to remain flat for the rest of the year.

For the second quarter, IAG posted an operating profit before exceptional items of €1.41 billion, down from €1.68 billion during the same period last year. Despite the decline, the result slightly exceeded analysts' expectations of €1.37 billion.

The airline group said rising fuel prices and emissions-related expenses significantly impacted performance. During the second quarter, fuel costs and emissions charges increased by nearly 23% to €2.22 billion, affecting all of IAG's airlines from March onwards.

Although the company has slightly lowered its full-year fuel cost forecast to between €8.3 billion and €8.6 billion, compared with the approximately €9 billion projected in May, fuel remains one of its biggest financial challenges.

IAG stated that the prolonged conflict in the Middle East has weakened travel demand across several markets, adding pressure on airlines already facing elevated operating costs. The company had previously issued a profit and capacity warning in May as geopolitical uncertainty began affecting bookings.

The group's traditionally strong transatlantic business has also experienced pressure as changing travel patterns impact one of its most profitable markets.

Looking ahead, IAG said it is around 57% booked for the second half of the year, with booked revenue currently in line with the same period last year. The airline expects to offset approximately 60% of its higher fuel expenses through increased ticket prices and ongoing cost-efficiency initiatives.

The latest results reflect the broader challenges facing the aviation industry, with several European carriers reporting similar pressures from rising operating costs, geopolitical tensions, and softer travel demand in recent months.