The peak summer period helped budget carrier Norwegian improve its financial performance ahead of a planned slowdown in its rapid expansion.
The pre-tax profit improved by 13% year-on-year to a record of NOK 1.6 billion (£149 million).
Europe’s third largest low cost carrier, in which British Airways’ parent International Airlines Group has a minority stake, saw net profit for the last quarter rise by 18% year-on-year to NOK 1.3 billion (£121 million).
The results came as the airline continued to reduce its unit costs despite a capacity growth of 33%.
“Going forward, the growth will abate, consequently further reducing unit cost,” Norwegian said.
However, fuel costs in the three-month period soared by 85% to NOK 3.7 billion. This was partially offset by efficiency gains from adding new fuel-efficient aircraft and increased sector lengths.
Overall unit costs, excluding fuel, declined by 10%.
The total revenue increased by 33% to NOK 13.4 billion (£1.2 billion).
The number of passengers carried grew by 11% over the same period last year to almost 11 million.
The load factor declined to 90.5% from 91.7% last year.
CEO Bjorn Kjos said: “I am very pleased to present a solid result this quarter with a reduced unit cost despite strong growth.
“Going forward the growth will slow down, and we will begin to reap the large investments we have made over the years, which will benefit customers, employees and shareholders.
“However, there is no doubt that tough competition, high oil prices and a strong dollar will affect the entire aviation industry, making it even more important to further streamline our operations and continue to reduce costs.”
The airline had a fleet of 158 aircraft at the end of the quarter, excluding five out on external leases.
Klos added: “New aircraft are win-win for the environment, the passengers and the company’s costs.”
Norwegian said it had made “significant investments” in recent years by establishing new international bases, recruiting several thousand employees – primarily pilots and cabin crew – starting new routes and increasing frequencies on well-established routes.
“The strong international footprint has for instance contributed to the US now representing the largest market after Norway in terms of total revenue,” the airline said.