The Ozempic Effect is reshaping more than waistlines—it may soon reshape airline balance sheets. A new study finds major U.S. airlines could save as much as $580 million annually as travelers lose weight, lowering aircraft fuel costs across the industry.
According to the analysis by Jefferies equity analyst Sheila Kahyaoglu, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines stand to benefit from reduced passenger weight. Airlines have long scrutinized every ounce on board. “Airlines have a history of being vigilant around aircraft weight savings, from olives (pitless, of course) to paper stock,” the report states. “Passenger waist lines have thus far been out of their control.”
Kahyaoglu told The New York Times, “It only makes sense that the weight of their passengers also impacts their costs.” The Ozempic Effect comes as GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy surge in popularity nationwide, driven by expanding access and new delivery options.
Novo Nordisk recently launched an oral version of its GLP-1 drug after FDA approval in December 2025. Executive Dave Moore said the pill has unlocked pent-up demand. “There are so many patients that have been on the sidelines just waiting because they didn’t really see themselves treating with an injection,” Moore said on “The Claman Countdown.” “Now that the pill is available, we are seeing a lot of excitement and a lot of activity.”
Lower pricing may further accelerate adoption. FOX Business anchor Liz Claman reported eligible insured customers will pay about $25 a month, while uninsured customers will pay $149—less than injectable options.
As the Ozempic Effect spreads, airlines could quietly reap savings without raising fares or cutting service. The study underscores how market-driven innovation—in pharmaceuticals and consumer choice—can produce ripple effects across unrelated industries, delivering efficiencies without government mandates.
