EasyJet sees summer flight capacity approaching 2019 levels

EasyJet reiterated its plan to gear up operations to near pre-pandemic levels through the summer high season, as an easing of travel restrictions unleashes pent-up demand. Europe’s second-biggest discount carrier managed to narrow its estimated loss in a fiscal first half roiled by the rise of the omicron variant of Covid-19, and has turned its focus to bringing back capacity. Booking volumes for summer are currently tracking ahead of the same time in 2019, the company said. European airlines have seen a turnaround in ticket sales after authorities decided to live with the less-severe Covid infections and loosen travel curbs. EasyJet went from 50% of its 2019 schedule in January to 80% by March. The transition has been challenging, with the Luton, England-based carrier struggling to contend with rostering issues caused by renewed outbreaks among staff. “We’re confident in our plans for this year and beyond which will see EasyJet emerge as one of the winners in the recovery,” CEO Johan Lundgren said on a call with reporters. “We remain absolutely focused on creating shareholder value.” The company estimates its loss narrowed to between 535 million pounds and 565 million pounds for the first half ended March 31, compared with a 701 million-pound loss in the year-earlier period. Rising energy costs, the staffing issues and ramp-up challenges mean “the road to a full recovery remains long and bumpy,” said Allegra Dawes, senior airlines analyst at Third Bridge.<br/>