London, Jan 24, 2026, 09:23 GMT — Market closed
- IAG slipped 2.8% on Friday, halting its two-day winning streak.
- Rising crude prices dragged airline stocks lower ahead of the weekend.
- Investors are shifting focus to fuel trends and IAG’s earnings report due February 27.
Shares of International Consolidated Airlines Group (IAG) dropped 2.79% on Friday, ending at 418.3 pence. The stock wrapped up a volatile week, with airline shares feeling pressure amid swings in oil prices. (MarketWatch)
Fuel costs are crucial for airlines, and crude prices jumped amid rising geopolitical tensions. Brent crude rose roughly 1.6%, hitting $65.08 a barrel after President Donald Trump mentioned a U.S. “armada” moving toward Iran. (Reuters)
Investors saw this more as a blow to the whole sector than just IAG. EasyJet slid close to 3%, with Ryanair also retreating, as rising oil prices spooked airline shares. (The Irish Times)
IAG jumped 2.45% on Thursday, hitting 430.3 pence, but then slipped back on Friday. (MarketWatch)
Trading volume hovered around 10.4 million shares on Friday, per Yahoo Finance, with the stock fluctuating between roughly 414 pence and 427 pence. (Yahoo Finance)
Markets are closed for the weekend, leaving headlines and crude oil as the main focus. Should oil maintain its gains, expect airlines to face renewed pressure when London opens on Monday, even if there’s no new company news.
Fuel hedging provides some protection—airlines commonly lock in fuel prices in advance—but it won’t fully shield them if oil prices remain high and jet fuel costs rise accordingly.
IAG’s next major event is its full-year 2025 results, due Feb. 27. Investors will be watching closely for updates on cost trends, demand across key long-haul routes, and any remarks about fuel prices and capacity. (Iairgroup)
The selloff could spiral further. Any fresh jump in oil prices, or hints that ticket pricing power is weakening as the spring booking season approaches, would put the recent rally in the stock under real pressure.
Monday’s open will deliver the market’s initial reaction, with crude still in focus. After that, all eyes shift rapidly to Feb. 27.
