A strike by pilots at Air France last month boosted easyJet sales by £5m and helped lift full-year profit expectations, the low-cost airline said today.

Air France’s leading pilots’ union has ended a 14-day strike that crippled air traffic and led to condemnation from the French government.

At least half of all Air France flights have been cancelled as pilots begin a week-long strike amid anger over jobs and operations being moved to a low-cost carrier.

Ryanair aims to double business traffic in two years after partnering with global booking system Travelport Ltd to reach a broader customer base.

The High Court in London yesterday referred to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) the European Low Fares Airline Association’s (ELFAA) legal challenge to EU Regulation on Air Passenger Compensation for denied boardings, long delays and cancellations.

RYANAIR believes it will have to pay out millions of euro as its worst fears have been confirmed in its "state aid" battle with the EU Commission, which could also impinge on the future growth of Cork, Shannon and Dublin airports.

Later today, Aer Rianta is expected to confirm the arrival of two new airlines to Dublin next year, offering low fare routes to Europe.

A new budget airline is to operate in the UK for the first time, it was announced today.

The Dutch government has agreed to a total 62 million nfl in direct aid for Dutch airlines to cover losses during the period September 11-14 when American airspace was closed, the transport ministry said.

The Dutch government has announced it will set aside £14m in compensation for five airlines to help counter losses due to the US terrorist attacks.

The Dutch government has announced it will set aside £14m in compensation for five airlines to help counter losses due to the US terrorist attacks.