Low-cost carrier easyJet said it would be one of the few airlines to report an annual profit this year as its weathers industry turbulence.
The “no frills” group said it expects underlying pre-tax profits of between £25 million and £50 million for the year to September, compared with forecasts for hefty losses at rivals such as embattled British Airways.
Luton-based EasyJet carried 2.9 per cent more passengers in the three months to June 30, at 11.9 million, with revenues per seat up 10.9 per cent to £51.41.
Total revenues rose 12 per cent to £721?million as it also reaped rewards from a 34 per cent hike in so-called “ancillary charges”.
A late Easter and increased traffic from non-UK holidaymakers taking advantage of the strong euro added to the third quarter cheer.
But easyJet said it was also picking up business as others cut back in tough conditions.
While industry capacity is down four per cent in general on short-haul European routes, easyJet outlined plans to grow its capacity by four per cent by the end of September and maintain fleet expansion plans.
