LONDON, Feb 13 Reuters Europe39;s largest travel operator TUI on Tuesday reported far betterthanexpected first quarter results as it swung to a profit on the back of robust travel demand, sending its shares 7.4 higher in early trading in Frankfurt.

The company reported an operating profit of 6 million euros 6.46 million versus a loss of 153 million in the yearearlier period and an LSEG forecast for a loss of 102 million euros.

Europe39;s airlines are entering 2024 with robust outlooks as travel demand is expected to surpass prepandemic levels despite economic uncertainty, delays in plane deliveries from manufacturers and rising jet fuel prices.

TUI39;s firstquarter beat is a positive signal for the airline sector as a whole, an investor in other airlines, who did not wish to be named, said.

These updates highlight the strength of demand for holidays at present, Dudley Shanley, an analyst at Goodbody, said in a note. This summer should be very strong for… the European airlines.

The first half of the fiscal year is usually weak with the bulk of annual profit coming from the main April to September summer season.

TUI shares in London were up by almost 4. The company39;s executive and supervisory boards recommended that shareholders vote to remove TUI from the London Stock Exchange at Tuesday39;s annual general meeting to focus on the Frankfurt listing, in what would be a blow for the UK market.

Higher prices and bookings helped lift TUI39;s earnings in the first…