easyJet cuts flights
Thursday, 24 Jul 2008 09:34
easyJet sees effects of oil price rises
EasyJet is following Ryanair and cutting flights in response to high oil prices.
The airline is to cut 12 per cent of its flights from Stansted this winter, as it tries to 'thin out' flying at less profitable times.
Total growth over winter will be cut back to between four and six per cent.
EasyJet said fuel price rises had hit the firm for £185 million and it expects pre-tax profits to hit between £110 million to £120 million in the coming year.
In the last three months passenger numbers grew 16 per cent.
Last week, Ryanair announced the closure of seven European bases and a cut of 250 flights from Stansted – blaming high airport fees and oil prices.
Previously the Irish budget airline had warned if oil prices rose over $130 a barrel, the firm would start to make a loss.
Oil prices recently peaked at $147 a barrel, but have fallen to $127.