- Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has warned that European airfares could rise by up to 20 per cent over the next 12 months, representing the biggest increase in history.
- The predicted price hikes are driven by sharply higher jet fuel prices following conflict in Iran, alongside reduced seat capacity due to airline bankruptcies and takeovers.
- Most European carriers face severe financial pressure as they hold minimal fuel hedging for next year, leaving them exposed to high spot rates.
- O'Leary announced Ryanair is cutting 20 routes and over one million seats from Belgium for its winter schedule in response to a planned aviation tax increase.
- The airline boss expressed optimism that US regulators will certify the Boeing 737 MAX 10 by the end of October, allowing Ryanair to receive 16 planes in early 2027.
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