US DOMESTIC NETWORK — United Airlines plans to cut about 5% of its scheduled flights, with the airline expecting to restore its full schedule by fall 2026.

The carrier will first remove red-eye flights and flights on low-traffic days of the week. About 3% of its off-peak flights will be eliminated as part of the reduction.

Chief Executive Officer Scott Kirby said the airline will tactically remove flights that are temporarily unprofitable due to rising fuel costs tied to the Middle East conflict. He said that if fuel prices remained at current levels, annual jet fuel expenses would increase by $11 billion. "For perspective, in United's best year ever, we made less than $5B," Kirby said.

He said the airline's plans assume oil will reach $175 per barrel during the war in Iran. The company's projections assume oil will not drop back to $100 per barrel until the end of 2027. "And there's a part of me that can't help but feel United is playing offense right now with potentially big rewards at the end," he said.

United Airlines will not furlough employees despite the flight reductions. The carrier expects to take delivery of 120 new aircraft in 2026 and plans to expand its infrastructure at Newark Liberty International Airport.