Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, has warned that air ticket prices at Dublin Airport could rise above €1,000 this festive season unless the current annual passenger limit is removed. The airport’s capacity is restricted to 32 million passengers in a year. O’Leary, while speaking on The Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk, labelled the cap as “insane and silly”, hinting that it might cost the nation thousands of tourism-related jobs.
O’Leary criticised Eamon Ryan, the Transport Minister, calling him “clueless”. He accused him of indifference towards the airline industry and economic development, which are critical elements of his role.
O’Leary pointed out that the Dublin Airport could easily handle up to 40 million passengers per year if the cap was removed. He also highlighted the significance of tourism to the Irish economy, explaining that it contributes about 10-12% to the nation’s GDP, which equates to roughly 120,000 jobs.
He stated that with the establishment of new hotels and eateries and due to the popularity of attractions like the Wild Atlantic Way, there is a growing demand for more tourists, which can only be achieved through continuous provision of affordable flight services. However, he warned that if the current passenger limit remains, air ticket charges to and from Dublin will hit €1,000 this Christmas, averaging €500 per trip.
Furthermore, O’Leary expressed his criticisms towards Aer Lingus pilots, who are voting to possibly go on strike in pursuit of a 24% pay rise, following a legal complication in the original procedure conducted last week. Considering the threat of major disturbances and “grave impact” on consumers and families during the summer holidays, as issued by the airline, O’Leary opined that the 9.5% wage increase granted by the labour court is “more than reasonable”. He pointed out that it was in fact above the current inflation rate of 2-3%, with the major complainers being the chief pilots receiving €250,000 annually.
“I find it absolutely unacceptable. These individuals are employing intimidation tactics against airlines and the general public with threats of summer strikes, despite already being given a proposed 9.5% salary raise. If they were baggage handlers, I’d be more empathetic, but this is pure industrial intimidation.”
Nevertheless, Mr O’Leary stated that people “needn’t stress” over potential strike actions. “The regional services of Aer Lingus will carry on, with both Iberia BA and the transatlantic airlines stepping in,” he affirmed. “Given that we have approximately six to eight surplus aircraft, we’re fully equipped to supplement with additional flights, even though we’re often notified of strikes at the very last moment.”
“I keenly implore Aer Lingus to challenge these pilots, and I would equally urge Aer Lingus pilots, if you’re earning €250,000 annually and the labour court has granted you a 9.5% raise, to accept it and renegotiate next year,” he added.