EasyJet's profits have been hit by the Covid crisis as the company is expected to announce pre-tax losses of between £1.14 billion and £1.18 billion.

Passenger numbers have increased since restrictions were eased but international travel remains well below normal, Sky News is reporting.

Capacity is now expected to be up to 70% of 2019 levels for the winter, as holidaymakers seek out some sunshine.

The number of flights in the past three months reached 58% of 2019, significantly up on the 17% in the three months to the end of June.

International travel remained at just 32% of 2019 levels, although there was growth in travel within the UK and EU.

Johan Lundgren, Easyjet chief executive, said: "It is clear recovery is under way.

"Business travel is returning to easyJet with corporates and SMEs attracted by our value, network and approach to sustainability.

"We have seen city breaks beginning to return alongside growing demand for leisure travel from customers looking for flights and holidays to popular winter sun destinations including Egypt and Turkey."