Jet2 reduces winter capacity amid economic uncertainty

Jet2 has announced a reduction of 200,000 seats from its winter flight schedule, bringing total seat availability to 5.6 million for the upcoming season. This move reflects a strategic response to a “difficult market” characterised by delayed bookings and rising operational costs.

Operational adjustments and financial outlook

Despite the capacity cut, Jet2 projects an overall 9% increase in winter capacity compared to the previous year. The company attributes the reduction to a combination of factors, including a £25 million payroll tax and a £20 million sustainable fuel mandate, which have contributed to increased operating expenses. Additionally, the airline has observed a shift towards last-minute bookings, leading to a decrease in average ticket yields. As a result, Jet2 anticipates that its earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) for the 2025 financial year will fall at the lower end of the £449 million to £496 million range.

Strategic focus on package holidays

In response to the challenging market conditions, Jet2 is placing a stronger emphasis on its package holiday offerings. While The Times reported that flight-only bookings have increased by 17%, package holiday bookings have risen by only 2% in the five months leading up to the end of August, compared to an 8% increase in the same period the previous year. Jet2 aims to leverage its loyal customer base and award-winning service to maintain competitiveness in the package holiday sector.

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