Easy Jet orders new planes as profits rise

British low-cost airline easyJet has announced plans to expand its fleet today after posting record profits for the last financial year.

The Luton-based carrier has placed firm orders for 52 Airbus 319 aircraft, while securing options over a further 75 in the A320 family.

The expansion came as easyJet said profits in the year to the end of September hit £129m (€191.3m), an increase of 56% despite soaring fuel costs.