Author: Bob Cartwright
easyJet has said that it will reduce the number of winter flights to and from Stansted by 12% and cut flights at less profitable times. The budget airline is also considering shutting its base in Dortmund and has warned of further cuts to capacity.
Record fuel prices, despite moderating in the past week, have hurt all airlines. Ryanair, the largest budget operator, has already announced it is cutting around 250 flights from Stansted.
Despite the tightening economic situation, easyJet's passenger numbers were up by 16% after the purchase of GB Airways in January this year.
The various add-ons being imposed by airlines are also bringing in lots of cash, it appears. Revenue from 'non-ticket' sales went up by 93% to £7.45 a seat after easyJet introduced a charge for checking in bags in October.