UK LCC EasyJet has confirmed it intends to cut staff numbers by up to 30% and potentially close three of its UK bases as it looks to resize its business in the face of COVID 19.
EasyJet announced that it has started formal consultation on all proposals, include the potential closing of three of its UK bases, including Newcastle Southend, and Stansted.
In its statement announcing the move EasyJet said that it did not believe that market demand would rebound in full until 2023.
Johan Lundgren, EasyJet chief executive, said: “These are very difficult proposals to put forward in what is an unprecedented and difficult time for the airline and the industry as a whole. We are focused on doing what is right for the company and its long term health and success so we can protect jobs going forward.”
However, Lundgren said, “unfortunately” the lower demand environment means the LCC needs fewer aircraft and employees.
"These proposals are no reflection on our people at Stansted, Southend and Newcastle, who have all worked tirelessly and have been fully committed to providing great service for our customers, ” he said.
It is not clear at this stage if EasyJet will close all, or fewer of the three airports mentioned, but Southend would face serious issues if the LCC were to exit having moved to a three-day week in April due to a collapse in demand.