European markets lead British Airways, Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, Air France-KLM down
British Airways' shares lost 1.9% yesterday, as the FTSE 100 closed 1.82% lower. The carrier confirmed plans to launch twice daily London City-New York Business class service by the end of Sep-2009, despite recent pressure on premium demand.
Yield per RPK declined by 9.7% in 1QFY2009/10, while the carrier's revenue dropped by 12.2%. BA took delivery of the first of two uniquely configured A318s, which will operate on the trans-Atlantic sector. Each aircraft is configured to carry 32 passengers on World Club seats, which convert to fully flat beds.
Shares in Aer Lingus dipped 1.0% yesterday. CEO, Colm Barrington, purchased stock in the carrier for the first time last Friday. Mr Barrington acquired 60,000 shares for an investment of EUR30,000, following the release of the carrier's financial results for 1H2009, in which Aer Lingus reported an operating loss of EUR93 million.
Elsewhere, shares in Lufthansa and Air France-KLM lost 3.4% each yesterday. The Frankfurt DAX and Paris CAC Index closed 2.51% and 1.92% lower, respectively.
Europe selected airlines daily share price movements (% change): 01-Sep-09
