EasyJet is in a lot stronger position now because it seized opportunities at Gatwick and on the continent. If it had just consolidated at bases like Luton and Stansted it would be facing more competition and earning less. If more money were to be returned to shareholders Stelios would probably waste it on a failed venture. Ryanair to double is the usual O'Leary hot-air. He can't fill the planes he's got already.