Government was supposed to play a compensating role to the economic downturn in the post-crisis period.

FORBES: The Worst Four Years Of GDP Growth In History: Yes, We Should Be Worried

Dr. ORSZAG: I think that's right during a normal period of normal economic downturn.

NPR: Orszag Eyes Swift Spending Of Stimulus Funds

Despite the downturn in the eurozone, forward bookings for the Christmas period were in line with the previous year - with about 45% of seats now booked.

BBC: Easyjet profits from business travel