14 Apr 2009 07:00
Dart Group PLC ("the Group")
Pre-close trading update
Dart Group PLC, the aviation and distribution group, announces a pre-close trading update in respect of the year ended 31 March 2009.
Since the announcement of its interim results on 4 December 2009, the Group has continued to trade ahead of market expectations over the second half of the financial year.
Jet2.com, the Group's leisure airline, has benefited from a cautious approach to its winter schedule, supplemented by a strong charter programme.
Fowler Welch-Coolchain, the Group's distribution business, continues to perform in line with the Board's expectations.
Cash flow remains strong, with the Group ending the year with positive cash balances.
Overall, the Board expects the Group's full year results to be ahead of current market expectations, as a result of both the strong trading performance and one-off treasury gains, driven by the strength of the US dollar.
The Board is pleased to report that Jet2.com scheduled bookings and load factors for summer 2009 are in line with 2008 levels.
The Group expects to announce its preliminary results for the year ended 31 March 2009 on 30 July 2009.
14 April 2009
For further information, please contact:
Andrew Merrick
Group Finance Director
07788 565358
0113 238 7444
Andy Pedrette/Joanne Royden-Turner
Smith & Williamson Corporate Finance Limited
020 7131 4000