Air Berlin’s first quarter losses increased from €68.6 million in 2008 to €87.3 million this year.
But the airline managed to increase revenues by 1.2% to €661 million and also grew revenue per passenger kilometer by 15.4% to 8.33 Eurocents.
“In this challenging economic environment, Air Berlin has performed better than other European airline companies,†said CEO Joachim Hunold.
“We were able to increase our charter-business revenue, especially due to improved capacity management on our long-haul flights. Furthermore, despite a shrinking market environment, we have succeeded in keeping single-seat ticket sales relatively stable.”
The airline said improved management and higher-quality client mix had helped it performance.
The number of passengers decreased 6.2% to 5.5 million.
This was partly blamed on reduced demand and the Easter flight season falling in April rather than in the first quarter.
Net loss for the first three months of 2009 amounted was €88.4 million, compared to a loss of €59.6 million for the same period in 2008.
By Bev Fearis
