Jet2 has announced a surge in summer bookings, with passenger numbers exceeding the previous year, demonstrating resilience amid broader disruptions in the travel industry. The airline operator reported that bookings for its peak summer period were higher than the same period last year for both package holidays and flights.
Summer seat capacity has increased by 7.6 percent to 19.9 million. "We have been encouraged by the sustained level of demand for both our holiday products through the peak summer season which gives us confidence for the remainder of the financial year," said Jet2 boss Steve Heapy. Customers continue to book closer to their departure dates, with booked-to-date passengers up 8.8 percent, an increase from the 7.1 percent reported in July. The airline's load factor, which measures the proportion of seats filled, also saw an increase and is scaling at Gatwick Airport. For winter 2026-27, Jet2's seat capacity is projected to rise by 8 percent year-on-year, totaling 5.9 million seats.
The aviation and leisure sectors have faced turbulence due to geopolitical events and their economic impact, including concerns over jet fuel supply. Rising oil prices have also led to increased caution among airlines regarding future pricing and capacity adjustments. Ryanair, for example, has warned of potential airfare increases across Europe if oil prices remain elevated, which could impact competitors. The budget airline also revised its annual traffic target downwards to mitigate exposure to unhedged oil prices during the typically less profitable winter season.
Jet2 has hedged 93 percent of its fuel for the year ending March 2027 at an average price of $753 per barrel. This compares to 90 percent of its fuel hedged at $743 as of July.
In addition to its strong trading update, Jet2 announced its intention to move its listing from the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) to the main market. This strategic move signifies the company's growth and confidence in its market position. Investment director Russ Mould of AJ Bell noted Jet2's sustained reputation for strong customer service as a key factor in its resilient demand. He added that the decision to ascend to the main market is a logical progression, reflecting the business's significant strides and current strong market standing.
Market analyst Adam Vettesse of Etoro commented that the listing move is a more significant signal, indicating Jet2 has outgrown AIM. He suggested that a main market listing signals management's focus on scale, liquidity, and attracting a wider institutional following, with potential FTSE 250 membership as an objective.