Weight-loss drugs could save US airlines millions of dollars in fuel costs this year, according to a new report by Wall Street firm Jefferies. The increased use of GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, means airlines are carrying slimmer passengers, reducing fuel consumption.
The report estimates that a 10 percent reduction in passenger weight could save top US airlines, including United and Delta, up to 1.5 percent in fuel costs and boost earnings per share by 4 percent. The top four US airlines are expected to spend $38.6 billion on jet fuel this year.
GLP-1 drugs were originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes but have become popular for weight loss. A November survey by KFF found that one in eight US adults is taking these drugs, up from early 2024. The Trump administration recently announced a deal to lower costs for Medicaid and Medicare patients.
The Jefferies analysis noted that US obesity rates are falling and that some GLP-1 medications are now available in pill form. “A slimmer society = lower fuel consumption,” the firm wrote, referencing past airline cost-saving measures such as removing olives from salads and using lighter paper for magazines.
