Sales rise means smooth ride for easyJet
BUDGET airline easyJet yesterday hailed another increase in passengers and revealed that more than half its business now comes from outside the UK, writes Philip Waller.
It said passenger numbers rose 9.1 per cent to 11 million in the three months to December 31 and 54 per cent of them booked their flights overseas.
EasyJet gained market share across Europe, particularly on flights from London Gatwick, Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports in Paris, Milan’s Malpensa and Madrid Barajas.
Total revenue rose 10.5 per cent to £607.5million and total revenue per seat increased 4.2 per cent to £47.50, slightly above hopes but down 0.4 per cent at constant currencies.
Bad weather closed a number of airports during December but easyJet said it ran nearly 90 per cent of flights. The airline has sold more than 65 per cent of winter seats and first-half revenues were likely to top initial forecasts, while a £100million boost from lower fuel prices should also help.
Outgoing chief executive Andy Harrison said the market was still difficult and the group expected tough trading in the coming year, although he remained upbeat.