as much this year as/than

[Tan Elaine]

Airlines are expecting to lose twice as much this year than first predicted, as global revenues slump 12 per cent and demand falls almost 6 per cent.

Why is 'than' used? Should it be 'as'? " ... as much (this year) as...

Thanks.

[2006]

Airlines are expecting to lose twice as much this year than first predicted, as global revenues slump 12 per cent and demand falls almost 6 per cent.

Why is 'than' used? Should it be 'as'? " ... as much (this year) as...

Thanks.

twice/half as much as
more/less than

The above sentence has to be reworded.
'This year airlines are expecting to lose twice as much as first predicted, as global...............'