EasyJet CEO sees tough environment in 2009

British low-cost airline easyJet Plc expects the industry to face a "very tough" consumer environment next year, Chief Executive Andy Harrison said. Carriers will face higher fuel costs as the US dollar strengthens against the euro and airlines which do not hold enough cash to foot the bill "will not survive," he said. "The world is gloomy out there," Harrison told journalists at a press briefing. Nonetheless, easyJet had no plans to cancel orders for new planes it has placed with Airbus,... [read full story]