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Norfolk Southern Corporation reported record second-quarter railway operating revenue of $3.5 billion, up 11% year over year, as freight volumes increased and fuel surcharge revenue climbed alongside higher fuel prices.

The U.S. freight railroad said railway operating revenue reached an all-time quarterly high after 4% volume growth, with fuel surcharges contributing roughly six percentage points of the revenue increase. Chief Executive Officer Mark George said demand improved across key markets during the quarter, allowing the company to outperform its own expectations while maintaining its focus on safety and operational execution.

On a reported basis, income from railway operations declined 4% to $1.12 billion, while the operating ratio worsened to 67.6% from 62.2% a year earlier. Diluted earnings per share also slipped 4% to $3.26.

Excluding merger-related expenses, restructuring charges, and the financial impact of the 2023 Eastern Ohio derailment, however, the company's underlying performance improved. Adjusted railway operating income rose 5% to $1.20 billion, adjusted diluted earnings per share increased 7% to $3.52, and the adjusted operating ratio was 65.5%.

Norfolk Southern said higher fuel expenses weighed on profitability during the quarter, although these costs were largely offset by increased fuel surcharge revenue, which created a 110-basis-point headwind to the operating ratio compared with the prior year.

Looking ahead, management said it expects encouraging freight demand trends to continue into the second half of 2026. The company said it remains focused on operating a safe and reliable railroad, delivering consistent service to customers, and executing with financial discipline as market opportunities emerge.

Norfolk Southern operates a freight rail network spanning 22 U.S. states and is one of the largest rail carriers in the eastern United States. The company continues to manage the financial effects of the East Palestine, Ohio derailment while also incurring costs related to its pending merger efforts, both of which were excluded from its adjusted earnings metrics.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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