Ireland’s flag carrier faces cost cuts as it reshapes its transatlantic network
Aer Lingus has announced a transformation plan to cut costs and 6% of capacity, targeting a 12-15% operating margin as fuel costs and macro challenges weigh on earnings. The carrier will cut 290 head office jobs plus 70 pilot and 140 cabin roles, removing several unprofitable routes, with more changes expected through 2027.
WestJet flight attendants have walked off the job over pay for duties performed while the plane is on the ground. CUPE 8125 says some ground work remains unpaid, while WestJet argues credit-hour compensation covers pre- and post-flight duties. A 72-hour strike notice has expired and negotiations continue, threatening further disruption for travellers over the long weekend.
US carriers are returning to Ben Gurion, expanding seats as demand climbs for the Jewish New Year and holidays. Despite new capacity, fares remain high through autumn, with relief not expected until November as demand shifts post-election.
Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary has defended previously controversial remarks that compared rival airlines to rapists, saying he has not trivialised rape and will not apologise. The comments have drawn condemnation from victims’ groups and politicians in Ireland and the UK, ahead of Ryanair’s AGM.
A Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen suffers a shattered window after a fan-blade failure, injuring Ljubisa Karovic. Passengers and crew intervene as the window is blocked and oxygen masks deploy. Ryanair’s CEO has said compensation is possible but not “millions and millions.” The NTSB is investigating.