Two major U.S. transportation companies reported significant financial pressure from rising fuel costs linked to ongoing Middle East conflicts, highlighting broader industry challenges.

Knight-Swift Transportation swung to a first-quarter loss, with the trucking company attributing the results to a tightening truckload market and increased fuel expenses. The company specifically cited higher fuel costs stemming from conflict in the region, though it noted that transportation market trends appear to be improving.

Separately, Southwest Airlines indicated that its full-year financial guidance faces risk due to surging fuel costs. The airline joined other carriers in pointing to supply pressures on crude oil markets caused by Middle East tensions as a key factor affecting operations.

The fuel cost increases reflect broader market dynamics as geopolitical tensions in oil-producing regions create supply constraints. Both trucking and aviation sectors are particularly sensitive to fuel price fluctuations given their high energy consumption requirements.

The developments underscore how regional conflicts can ripple through global supply chains and impact companies across different transportation sectors, from ground freight to passenger aviation.