AirAsia optimistic about 2010; Ryanair’s airport battles continue

31 December 2009

AirAsia’s shares declined 2.2% yesterday, with the carrier’s CEO, Tony Fernandes, in an interview with today's Business Times, stating the LCC is optimistic about the airline’s prospects for next year, with forward bookings “looking good” for Jan/Feb-2010.

Ryanair’s shares dropped 3.8%, on continued speculation that the carrier will make a third takeover bid for Aer Lingus, and as the dispute widens with the Italian Civil Aviation regulator.

Also in Europe, Vueling gained 3.6%, with easyJet down 2.1% and Air Berlin’s shares slightly weaker (down 0.3%).

In the US, Southwest’s shares remained stable, with JetBlue slightly weaker (down 0.5%) and AirTran up slightly (0.8%).

Selected LCCs daily share price movements (% change): 30-Dec-2009

Source: Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation & Yahoo! Finance