Investing.com -- United Airlines reported stronger-than-expected second-quarter results on Wednesday and raised its full-year adjusted earnings outlook, as robust demand for premium travel and international routes helped offset higher fuel costs.

The carrier posted adjusted earnings of $1.99 per share, topping analysts' estimates of $1.85, while revenue rose to $17.7 billion, ahead of the consensus forecast of $17.62 billion. Total operating revenue increased 16% from a year earlier.

The results underscore the resilience of U.S. airline travel demand despite elevated fuel prices and geopolitical uncertainty. Carriers have increasingly relied on premium cabins, loyalty programs and higher fares to protect margins as operating costs climb, with United saying strong pricing power and continued investment in customer experience are helping it recover rising fuel expenses while supporting higher profit expectations.

United lifted its full-year adjusted diluted earnings per share guidance to $9.00 to $11.00, citing resilient travel demand, improving yields and strong performance across its premium, loyalty and cargo businesses. Premium revenue climbed 16% year over year, while business travel and cargo revenue also posted double-digit growth.

The airline said fuel expenses jumped 84% from a year earlier in the quarter following higher oil prices but expects to recover most of the increase through higher fares by the fourth quarter. It also continued expanding its Starlink in-flight internet rollout, with 450 aircraft now equipped and nearly 1,000 expected by year-end.

United generated $1.6 billion in operating cash flow during the quarter and ended June with $19.6 billion in available liquidity. The company said it remains focused on strengthening its balance sheet and achieving an investment-grade credit rating.