Ryanair Anticipates Summer Fare Rises Amid Boeing Delivery Delays

Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, indicated that vacationers should expect higher airfares this summer due to delays in the delivery of new Boeing planes. O’Leary highlighted delayed airline arrivals as a constraint on passenger capacity, perhaps leading to a 10% increase in airfares.

Due to Boeing’s delivery delays, the low-cost carrier is having to deal with the fallout, which is affecting its efforts to grow its fleet and meet the demand for travel throughout the summer. Ryanair’s main goal, according to O’Leary, is to ensure that planes are delivered on time to meet operational requirements, even though the airline intends to be compensated for the delays.

The recent incidents involving Boeing aircraft, such as the panel blowout on a 737 Max 9 during a domestic flight with Alaska Airlines. Additionally, issues with Pratt & Whitney engines have grounded Airbus aircraft used by carriers like Wizz Air, further complicating the aviation landscape.

Ryanair’s summer schedule hinges on the timely delivery of at least 50 new aircraft from Boeing. However, O’Leary indicated that the airline may need to make “minor schedule cuts” if it receives fewer planes than anticipated by the end of March.

Boeing responded to the situation, acknowledging the possibility of delivery schedule changes and expressing regret for the impact on Ryanair. Meanwhile, Ryanair anticipates receiving fewer aircraft than originally planned for the summer season, potentially leading to adjustments in its summer schedules.

The broader implications of Boeing’s delivery delays extend beyond Ryanair, as concerns about quality control and production speed affect airlines across Europe. With a potential shortage of aircraft during the peak summer season, airfares across the board may rise as airlines struggle to meet surging demand.