Air Berlin reported that for the first quarter of 2009, seasonal operating loss (EBIT) reached minus EUR 87.3 million (Q1 2008: minus EUR 68.6 million). The reduced branchwide demand for flight services, in combination with the Easter flight season falling in April rather than in the first quarter, contributed to this development. Revenue reached EUR 661 million, an improvement of 1.2%, primarily as a result of the improved average earnings (Yield) per passenger.
Revenue per passenger kilometer (RPK) jumped from 7.22 to 8.33 Eurocents, i.e. an increase of 15.4%. Due to the higher cost of kerosene, EBITDAR (Earnings before interest, leasing expenses, depreciation, amortization, interest and taxes), at EUR 27.1 million for the reporting period, was lower than in the corresponding period of the previous year (Q1 2008: EUR 40.3 million). Air Berlin achieved an operating result (EBIT) of minus EUR 87.3 million (Q1 2008: minus EUR 68.6 million). Net profit for the first three months of 2009 amounted to minus EUR 88.4 million (Q1 2008: minus EUR 59.6 million).
