The carrier said demand was “accelerating”, with key periods such as the October half-term, ski and Christmas seeing “strong performance”.

In a statement, the carrier said next summer would be “at near 2019” capacity levels. It forecast capacity of 70% of 2019 levels in the first three calendar months of 2022.

“Customers will look for value as the economy recovers and short haul leisure demand will lead the recovery,” it said.

The loss for the year ending 30 September was at the lower end of analysts’ predictions but compares with a deficit of £835 million in 2020.

Johan Lundgren, easyJet chief executive, said: “Having delivered full-year 21 ahead of consensus, we have seen an encouraging start to this year with strong demand returning for peak winter holiday periods, coupled with increasing summer demand with Q422 capacity expected to be close to full year 19 levels. 

“With ambitious plans for profitable growth we are expanding our leadership positions at key bases such as Gatwick and Milan with additional slots and aircraft this year and have 118 aircraft on order with a further 59 purchase options and rights confirmed to further build on this in the years to come.”

However, he added: “We remain mindful that many uncertainties remain as we navigate the winter, but we see a unique opportunity for easyJet to win customers and take market share from rivals in this period.” 

The carrier said it was “too soon” to say what impact Omicron may have on European travel and any further short-term restrictions that may result.