Ryanair CEO known for blunt cost-cutting, fierce fare wars and high-profile clashes over safety, passenger data and industry policy.
Ryanair and other airlines have criticised National Air Traffic Services chief Martin Rolfe as a series of faults disrupts flights across the UK. Transport officials have ordered independent reviews and a full investigation into Swanwick’s flight-processing failures.
Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary has sparked condemnation in Ireland and the UK after describing rival airlines as “high‑fare rapists.” The comments have drawn calls for apologies and training on the impact of sexual violence; critics say the remarks trivialise rape. The fallout centers on comments made ahead of Ryanair’s annual meeting.
Ryanair has adjusted its family seating policy following an CMA investigation. Adults travelling with children will no longer be charged to sit with their kids; free parent seats will be allocated at the back of the aircraft. The CMA continues to assess compliance, while Which? Travel welcomes the move as a step toward fairer treatment.
Ryanair has reported a 34% drop in after-tax profits for the April–June quarter, with earnings squeezed by surging jet-fuel prices and a 6% fall in fares. Passenger numbers rose modestly as the airline cut prices to spur demand, while management warns that results will remain highly sensitive to external shocks like Middle East conflict and fuel costs.
A Ryanair-operated Boeing 737-800 has suffered a window blowout and cabin decompression during a Thessaloniki–Memmingen flight. The plane has returned safely to Thessaloniki, with one passenger receiving medical care. The NTSB has taken charge of the probe, with Greece participating, while Ryanair defends its safety record.
Investigators say a No. 2 engine fan blade broke off shortly after takeoff from Thessaloniki, shattering a window and injuring a passenger. The aircraft returned safely to Thessaloniki; ultrasonic inspections showed prior bird strikes and engine parts remain under investigation.