Ebookers nears break-even

Ebookers, the online travel company which has a Dublin office, says it's on the verge of breaking even, after revealing a narrowed third-quarter loss.

Pre-tax losses were down to £2.6m from £8.6m.

The company says the improvement in performance comes despite the US terror attacks.

Ebookers adds that it has benefited from strong European travel demand.

The company has also negotiated discounts with airline, hotel and car hire companies giving customers discounts of up to 65% and ebookers high margins.

Chief executive Dinesh Dhamija says: "'These estimates are testament to the strength of ebookers business model and of European online travel.

"Through our aggressive management of costs we have delivered this outstanding quarterly improvement despite the events of September 11."