EasyJet forecasts profits rise

No-frills airline easyJet today said profits could rise by as much as 15% this year, despite the soaring cost of jet fuel.

EasyJet told London brokers to upgrade their forecasts to between £74.8m (€109m) and £78.2m (€108.2m) after first-half losses were not as hefty as expected, and it steered a smooth course through the key Easter holiday season.