UK budget carrier EasyJet is to accelerate its Boeing 737 phase-out and open negotiations with Airbus over converting some of its A319 orders to the larger A320 variant.

London Luton-headquartered EasyJet, which today posted a £57.5 million ($113.4 million) pre-tax interim loss, is making the changes to drive down its aircraft ownership costs and counter spiralling fuel prices.

It says: “The decision has been taken to accelerate the phasing out of the higher cost Boeing 737 fleet and the rationalisation of the expensive GB Airways sub-fleet.”

EasyJet’s fleet includes 30 737-700s on operating lease, but its 112 Airbus A319s form the backbone of its operation. GB Airways’ former fleet comprises nine Airbus A320s and six A321s, giving EasyJet experience

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