Ryanair CEO: Low-Cost Flights Will Continue, But Not as Cheap as Before
Ryanair’s chief executive, Michael O’Leary, has revealed that the airline is willing to sell plane tickets at a loss in order to fill its planes during off-peak periods. While low-cost flights will still be available, they may not be as inexpensive as they once were.
O’Leary made these comments in an interview with The Independent after research showed that a wide range of flights were being sold for less than the £13 air passenger duty that Ryanair must pay for each customer boarding a plane from the UK.
Flights for £12.99
The article highlights specific examples of low-cost flights available from London Stansted to Venice and Catania in Sicily, both priced at £12.99. These fares are even cheaper than the Stansted Express train from London to the airport.
Similar deals were found for flights departing from other British airports, such as Bristol to Sofia in Bulgaria, Belfast International to Porto, and Stansted to Prague or Baden-Baden, all priced at £12.99.
Continued Low Air Fares
O’Leary reassured customers that there will always be periods of time, particularly during off-peak seasons, where Ryanair will offer low air fares. The airline is willing to fill flights at loss-making prices in order to attract passengers.
However, O’Leary also mentioned that the days of €9.99 flights are over due to rising fuel costs. He believes that air fares around £15, £20, or £25 are still incredibly cheap compared to prices in the past.
Reactions and Concerns
The article includes reactions from industry experts and activists. Anna Hughes, director of Flight Free UK, criticizes the upside-down nature of the transport system, where aviation remains untaxed while rail fares continue to rise.
Aviation analyst Sean Moulton explains that Ryanair aims to gain market share and airport dominance through low fares, while generating profits from ancillary services such as check-in bags and seat selection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ryanair’s CEO confirms that low-cost flights will continue to be available, although they may not be as cheap as before. The airline is willing to sell tickets at a loss during off-peak periods to fill its planes. However, rising fuel costs have led to the end of €9.99 flights. Despite this, air fares around £15-£25 are still considered remarkably affordable compared to prices in previous decades.
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