EasyJet carried 12 million business passengers during the 12 months ending March 31,

the airline announced, noting that "one in five" of its passengers now travels on business. That represents a 44 percent rise from 2010 levels, according to the airline. EasyJet in recent years has made concerted efforts to attract business passengers by entering global distribution systems, launching new fare products and establishing deals with corporations and travel management companies. The airline posted a £53 million pre-tax loss for the six months ending March 31, compared with a £61 million loss for the prior-year period. Total revenue for the half-year period rose 6 percent year over year.