Low cost airline easyJet is set to switch flights from weaker performing airports to Gatwick and will cut flights at Stansted airport this winter.
In its third quarter management statement the budget airline reveals that passenger numbers were up by 16%. “The majority of the growth was focused around London Gatwick, France, Italy and Spain. Total non-UK originating passengers increased by 25% in the quarter and UK originating passengers grew by 9%,” says easyJet.
Flights from London airports formally operated by GB Airways and flights to France and Italy performed particularly well. easyJet also reports that its UK regional airports are delivering good results, particularly Newcastle airport and the Scottish airports.
“Performance at Belfast remains challenging as capacity has increased in the market, however encouragingly easyJet’s loads are ahead of the competition on key overlapping routes. France and Italy are delivering strong revenue per seat improvement,” the airline adds.
easyJet intends to focus network expansion on “primary centres” such as Paris Charles de Gaulle and Milan Malpensa airport, where it recently introduced its 11th aircraft.
Overall capacity growth for this winter has been reduced, but will still be between 4-6%. However, at Stansted airport easyJet will reduce capacity by 12% this winter. Last week rival no frills airline Ryanair announced it would reduce flights from Stansted by 14% this winter.
“Flying at less profitable times has been thinned and easyJet will reallocate capacity from weaker performing bases towards higher value opportunities including Gatwick, France and Italy,” the airline states.easyJet says its fuel costs have increased by about £185 million. Increased airport charges, not least at Gatwick airport, have also added to the airline’s costs. A pre-tax profit of between £110-120 million has been forecast, which saw easyJet’s share price fall more than 10% yesterday.
Written by: Nick Purdom
Save up to 60% and book your Gatwick Airport parking at an unbeatable price with Holiday Extras
