02.03.06
Irish state airline Aer Lingus, on course for privatization, announced a drop in 2005 operating profits. Profits fell to €72.4 million in 2005 compared to €107 million the previous year.
The airline's passenger numbers rose 15.6% to 8.044 million people last year and the passenger load factor - the proportion of seats filled - fell 1% to 81%. Revenue from the group's continuing operations slid 2.6% to €883.0 million.
Aer Lingus chairman John Sharman said the airline had faced a number of challenges last year including 'increasing fuel costs, fierce competition and changes in internal work practices.'
The company's fuel bill rose by €33.1 million over the course of 2005. That was partly compensated for by a reduction in other costs, including an 11.0% reduction in staff levels to 3,475 workers.
Last year, Aer Lingus flew to 16 new destinations across Europe and plans six further routes in 2006. Chief executive Dermot Mannion said that there would be an increased focus on developing the airline's long haul network this year.
