Ryanair passenger numbers up to 21 million in 2003

Low fares airline Ryanair carried over 21 million passengers to December 2003, up from 14.5 million to December 2002.

Passenger numbers alone for last month were up 53% on the corresponding figure in 2002, standing at just over two million.

The percentage of seats filled on all trips or 'load factor' stood at 83%, down from 85% on the previous year.

Figures released by the company today also showed the vast majority of bookings (96%) are now made through the company's website.

The figures were broadly in line with analysts' projections.

Their belief is that 2004 is set be a good year for the aviation industry following the Gulf War, SARS outbreak and improving economic conditions.