Ryanair press conference

Michael O’Leary was in a genial mood as he launched Ryanair’s summer programme 2021, via video into offices and homes last week.  He was bullish regarding his airline’s plans for the summer and suggested 80% of 2019 business with over 2,300 weekly flights across 480 routes. 

Asked by BTN for any plans regarding UK British services (the carrier is a member of Airlines UK) he said that was dependent on the Air Passenger Duty (APD) rate charged by the Exchequer.  The double whammy was not for him.  The airline had previously flown to London from Scottish government-owned Glasgow Prestwick Airport.

He said: “The UK Government has implemented a very successful vaccine rollout programme, and is on track for a re-opening of EU short-haul travel this summer. Ryanair is pleased to offer even more choice and lower fares to our UK customers and their families with over 2,300 weekly flights and 480 routes to choose from, including 26 exciting new holiday connections to Naples, Rhodes, Chania, Alicante and Mallorca among many others.
 
“UK families can now book a well-earned summer holiday safe in the knowledge that if their plans change for any reason they can move their travel dates up to two times with a zero-change fee up until the end of October 2021.”

He said Ryanair would take delivery of its first Boeing MAX in April.  “Passengers will be really surprised how quiet it is and of course from an environmental and commercial point of view it is a big leap forward.  Travellers can refuse to fly if they like on boarding and will be offered a free of charge change on to the next non-MAX flight.”

Asked about masks and seating O’Leary confirmed that in his view face coverings would be mandatory for the foreseeable future and that the so-called 2m rule was impossible at airports and in aircraft.

See also AND FINALLY
www.ryanair.com

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OUR READERS' FINEST WORDS (All times and dates are GMT)

All comments are filtered to exclude any excesses but the Editor does not have to agree with what is being said. 100 words maximum

Jean Smith, Belfast

Michael O’Leary is up to his old tricks. The truth and nothing like the truth. Still he is a very rich man the problems arising when the targets are not nearly met and the staff lower down the line begin to get hurt.

Bill O\'Grady, Dublin

It was nice to see Mr O’Leary not swearing at everyone but I suspect when the June/July figures come in there will be some uncouths.