EasyJet to order 75 new aircraft
Low-cost airline easyJet is to order 75 new planes as part of a major expansion planned for the next five years, the operator said today.
The Luton-based firm has already started discussions with Boeing and Airbus about placing the largest-ever order from a European budget carrier, which is thought to be worth about £2.7bn.
The move follows a period of rapid growth for the six-year-old business, which has a 27-strong fleet and plans for another 23 planes by 2004.
EasyJet’s intention to acquire a further 75 aircraft by 2007 comes as the airline seeks to capture more short-haul business from national carriers.
Despite the impact of the September 11 terrorist attacks, operators such as easyJet, Ryanair and Go have seen passenger numbers rise in recent weeks.
The proposed order pitches Boeing and Airbus into direct competition at a time when both aircraft-makers are experiencing difficult market conditions.
EasyJet chief executive Ray Webster said: ‘‘Given the current state of parts of the global aviation industry, this is potentially a very good time to be addressing our long-term aircraft needs.
‘‘We have already committed to grow aircraft capacity by approximately 25% a year until 2004 and need to secure delivery positions beyond that date.’’
EasyJet’s fleet currently consists of 18 Boeing 737-300 and nine 737-700 aircraft.
The latest order will see the airline take further 737-700 aircraft, or acquire the Airbus A319 aircraft for the first time.
Mr Webster said: ‘‘The Airbus has not previously been operated by easyJet or other low-cost airlines as its original capacity was limited to 145 seats - against the 149-seat Boeing 737-300/700.
‘‘However, Airbus has informed us that the A319 will be available with up to 150-seat capacity, which makes it a viable competitive alternative.’’
An easyJet spokesman said the order would go to only one firm, with an announcement on the winner expected in around three months, and added that the number of planes ordered might change during the course of discussions.
The latest developments in easyJet’s expansion come two months after it successfully raised £93.3m through a City share offer.
