Continental reports third quarter 2008 net loss of $236 million

Continental Airlines reported a third quarter 2008 net loss of $236 million. Excluding $91 million of previously announced special items, Continental recorded a net loss of $145 million. Total revenue for the quarter was $4.2 billion, an increase of 8.8% ($336 million) over the same period in 2007. Passenger revenue for the quarter grew 7.1% ($249 million) compared to the third quarter of last year, and includes a $27 million increase in revenue related to a reduction in the company’s frequent flyer liability.