National Express Group PLC (LON:NEX) said trading has improved in all of its markets as the easing of lockdown restrictions sees more people use buses again.
April revenue was up by around 50% compared with last year, the group said in a trading update, though revenue from the start of this year to end April 2021 was still 16% below twelve months ago.
In the UK, the group's coach network has reopened and is currently running 13% of pre-COVID mileage with occupancy rates of around 85% of available seats.
Revenues in Spain are at 75% of pre-COVID levels, though Morocco passengers have risen by 60% due to the start of new services in Rabat and Casablanca. US school bus service are operating at 90% capacity.
Underlying profits picked up in March and the first half will be at least in line with the preceding six months, though National Express expects a better second half as restrictions are eased further.
Ignacio Garat, chief executive, said: "I am pleased to see the continued improving performance trajectory across our business in the first four months of 2021 despite the ongoing lockdown restrictions.
"Progress has been made on a number of the 'big deltas' outlined at the full-year results presentation including the mobilisation of a new fleet in Casablanca and the launch of new standard operating procedures in North America School Bus, already delivering financial benefits as part of our 'Driving Excellence' programme.
“Whilst we remain focused on managing what we can control, we remain confident that as restrictions across the world are lifted we will see a strong recovery in demand for our services."