Low-cost airlines serving European ski resorts propel increase in early bookings

The growing number of low-cost airlines serving European ski resorts for
the 2005/06 season has led to a 33% increase in early bookings,
according to ski specialist Alpine Tracks.

Duncan Gilroy, managing director of Alpine Tracks, said that this season
has seen airlines such as easyJet expand their winter flight programme
into Geneva, resulting in an upsurge in demand for both chalet and hotel
accommodation across its French resorts.

"This has had a knock-on effect to other areas, with more customers than
ever booking early to secure the right elements for their holiday," said
Gilroy. The company, which offers hotels and its own chalets in Europe
and the USA, is already increasing its allocation in the key resort of
Morzine by 20%, together with the expansion of its programme in
Champoluc, Breckenridge and Geilo. The company's 2005/06 brochure
includes chalets and small hotels in a range of resorts, together with
flexible ski breaks from three-days upwards.