United's fuel hedging strategy has all the marks of some smooth-talking consultants or bankers. Way to go, United.
"In both 2008 and 2007, an increase in jet fuel prices was the primary reason for higher mainline and United Express fuel expense and aircraft fuel cost per gallon, as highlighted in the table below. The price of crude oil reached a record high of approximately $145 per barrel in July 2008 and then dramatically decreased in the second half of the year to approximately $45 per barrel at December 31, 2008. This significant fuel price volatility drove the Company’s total fuel hedge losses of more than $1.1 billion in 2008.
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"The volatility of and increases in crude oil prices, a weakening economic environment and a highly competitive industry with excess capacity have created an extremely challenging environment for the Company. The Company’s cash flows and results of operations have been adversely impacted by these factors as indicated by its net loss of $5.3 billion during the year ended December 31, 2008." - United Airlines 2008 10-K, 2 March 2009
