EasyJet announced that it transported more than 61.3 million passengers in 2013, an increase of 3.6% over the previous year.
Much of the increase in traffic came in December when 4.5 million people flew with the carrier.
Despite a backlash against Ryanair’s practices, easyJet’s rival had a total of 81.4 million passengers in 2013, an increase of 2%. In December, 5 million people travelled with Ryanair.
Airlines usually expect to lose money over the less popular winter season before bouncing back with a profitable summer period.
EasyJet reported record pre-tax profits of £478m during the 12 months to September 30.
At the time, chief executive Carolyn McCall said it had attracted older, more affluent passengers, who would not previously have flown with a low cost airline, through improved customer service initiatives such as allocated seating.
