EasyJet Faces £15M Losses as French ATC Strikes Disrupt 660 Flights

EasyJet's CEO Kenton Jarvis has criticized recent French air traffic controller strikes as highly disruptive, causing significant operational challenges and financial costs estimated around £15 million, with further impacts from rising fuel prices. Despite these issues, EasyJet reported a strong third quarter with a 21% rise in pre-tax profits to £286 million and a 10.9% increase in revenue, driven by robust demand and improved operational performance. Jarvis emphasized that about 70% of EasyJet flights involve French airspace, making the strikes particularly impactful, and called on the French government to take long-term measures to improve air traffic control staffing and technology. The airline's shares fell over 6% following the update, reflecting investor concerns about profit headwinds from the strikes and fuel costs. Looking ahead, EasyJet remains optimistic about full-year profit growth and has already sold 67% of its Q4 capacity, though it acknowledges that late summer bookings and yields will influence final results. Meanwhile, Jarvis also expressed opposition to European Union proposals allowing passengers two pieces of cabin baggage, arguing it is impractical due to limited aircraft space and could lead to higher prices and less consumer choice.