Low cost carrier Ryanair has released passenger and load factor stats for February 2013, during which its adjusted monthly traffic fell – as previously guided – by 3% over the same period during previous year as Ryanair grounded up to 80 aircraft.

The carrier also claimed the leap year in February 2012 accounted for a further 3% drop in traffic.

Ryanair’s Robin Kiely said: “As previously guided, Ryanair’s adjusted February 2013 traffic fell by 3% over February 2012 as we grounded up to 80 aircraft.

“The leap year of February 2012 had 29 days and accounted for a further 3% drop. However, Ryanair’s load factor increased by 1% and we delivered another record 12-month traffic as almost 80m passengers chose one of Ryanair’s ultra-low fares since February 2012.” Added Kiely.