Ryanair has expressed dissatisfaction regarding its recent business performance, leading to disappointment among investors. The budget airline experienced a 17% drop in its stock value following the release of a quarterly earnings report that did not meet expectations. The company’s revenue was recorded at €3.6 billion ($4 billion), remaining unchanged from the previous year. However, profits plummeted by nearly 50% to €336 million. CEO Michael O’Leary stated that while more passengers are flying with Ryanair, it is becoming increasingly challenging to maintain this growth.
O’Leary noted that passenger traffic increased by 10%, reaching 55 million travelers, but emphasized that this growth comes at a cost. He explained that the airline has to frequently lower fares and stimulate bookings. Recent close-in bookings have been disappointing, particularly as the summer peak months of July, August, and September approach.
In addition to softer demand, Ryanair is facing rising labor costs and has pointed fingers at Boeing’s delivery delays, which have long frustrated O’Leary. Although he has defended Boeing after an incident involving a 737 Max 9 earlier this year, he has consistently urged the manufacturer to improve its operations.
O’Leary also highlighted that passengers appear to be feeling more economic pressure as inflation and stagnant growth take their toll in the European Union. This situation may lead to benefits for Ryanair, as the airline anticipates operating with reduced capacity through the summer of 2025 compared to its original schedule with Boeing. O’Leary remarked that the lack of capacity growth over the next two years might be advantageous if consumer spending continues to decline in the near future.