Ryanair’s net profit is down 16% compared to last year, to 1,6 billion euros. That’s according to figures for the fiscal year that ended at the end of March. The Irish low-cost carriers had to cut their prices by 7% to fill up planes.
That strategy led to a record number of just over 200 million passengers (+9%), while Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary can also quietly hope for a 100 million euros bonus.
Still plagued by aircraft delivery delays
For fiscal year 2026, Ryanair expects modest growth to 206 million passengers due to “the limited or delayed delivery of Boeing aircraft,” CEO O’Leary said.
US tariffs have also led to uncertainty in the airline industry. Last month, for example, O’Leary threatened to turn to Chinese supplier COMAC if Boeing planes cost more due to Trump’s tariff campaign.
Starting in August, Ryanair will receive 25 new planes from the American builder. In May 2023, Ryanair placed a mega-order of 300 new planes with Boeing. For the moment, it has a fleet of 618 aircraft.
Moreover, according to Ryanair, customer budgets are also under pressure. Still, the company reports “robust demand” for summer bookings. In addition, Ryanair announced that it will buy back its own shares for 750 million euros over the next six to 12 months.
Another 10 exciting days for O’Leary
Ryanair chief Michael O’Leary can also quietly hope for a 100-million-euro bonus. He will be entitled to it if the airline’s share price stands at least 21 euros for 28 consecutive days. Monday was day 18. The publication of the annual figures yesterday sent the stock even more than 4% higher. Another way to get the bonus is at an annual profit of 2,2 billion euros.
O’Leary’s contract runs until 2028, which is also the earliest date he can collect the bonus. The 64-year-old O’Leary does not rule out extending his contract again. He has led the airline since 1994, making it Europe’s largest low-cost carrier. He himself is one of Ireland’s richest entrepreneurs.
