China's Major Airlines Report First-Quarter Profits Amid Operational Improvements
China's largest airlines, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, have reported significant profits for the first quarter of 2026. This marks a turnaround from previous losses, attributed to operational improvements and cost control measures. Air China reported a net profit of CNY1.7 billion, reversing a CNY2 billion loss from the previous year, with an 11% increase in revenue. China Eastern Airlines posted a net profit of CNY1.6 billion, while China Southern Airlines achieved a CNY1.5 billion profit, both showing substantial revenue growth. The airlines credit their success to optimized route structures and a strong start to the year, despite challenges such as rising fuel prices due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. 
