EasyJet sees more escaping to the sun

EasyJet transported 49,500,000 passengers in the 12 months to November, up from 45,800,000 passengers the same time a year earlier.

Last month the airline said full-year profit rose almost threefold on rising consumer demand and cheaper fuel.

The group, which counts Alicante airport and nearby Benidorm, pictured, amongst its top destinations, also announced it would pay its first dividend in 2012.

Analysts have recently raised their price target and reiterated their "buy" recommendation on the stock, saying a new focus on business customers and the introduction of other initiatives will boost future profits.