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JetBlue Shares Jump After Carrier Reaffirms 2027 Profit Target
JetBlue stock climbed more than 10% in after-hours trading Monday after the airline said it remains on track for sustained profitability in 2027, even as it trimmed its 2026 outlook and posted a wider third-quarter loss.
The shares had closed the session at $2.37, down more than 20% over the prior week as speculation swirled that the carrier could seek Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The after-hours rally recovered part of that decline.
JetBlue published its third-quarter results after the market close on Monday, a day ahead of schedule; the report had been set for Tuesday morning before the opening bell.
The airline lowered its guidance for 2026 while reporting the larger quarterly loss, but reiterated long-term targets of $1 in earnings per share and positive free cash flow by 2028.
On costs, the carrier said unit expenses excluding fuel would show a "meaningful step-down" in the fourth quarter. It pointed to continued execution of its JetForward program as underpinning confidence in reaching sustained operating profitability in 2027 and delivering at least $1 EPS alongside positive free cash flow.
The update came as investors weighed the airline's balance-sheet position against its restructuring plan, with the stock's sharp weekly slide reflecting concerns about a possible bankruptcy filing.