American Airlines Expects 9-Figure Loss from Winter Storm

The Fort Worth-based carrier says the storm will reduce its first-quarter capacity and cost up to $200 million in revenue.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:07am

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American Airlines Group Inc. expects to take a revenue hit of up to $200 million from Winter Storm Fern, which the Fort Worth-based carrier says will result in a 1.5-point reduction in its first-quarter capacity guidance. The airline confirmed the storm caused more than 9,000 flight cancellations, making it one of the most significant weather-related disruptions in the company's history.

Why it matters

The financial impact of the winter storm on American Airlines underscores how extreme weather events can significantly disrupt operations and finances for major North Texas companies. The $150 million to $200 million revenue loss is a substantial blow that will affect the airline's bottom line.

The details

American Airlines revealed that the winter storm will result in a 1.5-point reduction in its first-quarter capacity guidance, leading to a revenue hit of up to $200 million. The airline confirmed it had to cancel more than 9,000 flights due to the storm, making it one of the most significant weather-related disruptions the company has ever faced.

  • The winter storm impacted American Airlines operations over the past few days.

The players

American Airlines Group Inc.

A major American airline headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas.

Robert Isom

The CEO of American Airlines Group Inc.

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What they’re saying

“The impact of the storm is as significant as we've ever seen at American.”

— Robert Isom, CEO (Earnings call)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the substantial financial toll that extreme weather events can have on major companies like American Airlines, underscoring the need for robust contingency planning and risk mitigation strategies to address the growing impact of climate change.