EasyJet profits get a lift from sun-seekers

EasyJet reported a bumper month in August, with record passenger numbers, and now predicts better-than-expected profits. Picture: Ian Georgeson

Holidaymakers jetting off to take advantage of the strong pound and escape last month’s rain helped EasyJet notch up a record August, and the budget airline now says it expects to deliver better-than-expected profits. The no-frills carrier said it flew 7.1 million passengers last month after a surge of late bookings as Britons headed for beach and city destinations across Europe, boosted by the strength of the pound against the euro.

EasyJet upped its annual profit outlook to between £675 million and £700m for the year to 30 September after the bumper August performance, which is set to see the group post its fifth year in a row of record annual pre-tax profits.

It was previously expected to report profits of between £620m and £660m.

The most popular destinations for sun-seekers were Malaga, Alicante, Faro and Palma, while Barcelona was also a top pick for those looking for a city and beach experience.