Buying cheap flights is getting harder for those without access to the internet.

EasyJet is hoping to drive bookings from the phone on to the web by refusing to sell flights more than a week in advance by phone. Currently 93 per cent of the airline's bookings come online, and phone bookings are not allowed more than a month in advance. The change means those without net access will be unable to benefit from cheap early-booking deals.

James Fremantle of the Air Transport Users Council said: 'This is both a cause for concern and a sign of the times. Companies can't assume everyone has access to the net. It is stopping many consumers getting hold of these low fares.'

As part of the move EasyJet wants to close one of its two call centres, at Stansted, leaving only its Luton base. The change will not be introduced until the 90-day negotiation period with call centre staff is completed in early July.

Ryanair sells 94 per cent of flights online, while British Airways sells 41 per cent.