21-Oct-2026 14:03:24
Ryanair CEO Warns European Airfares Could Surge 20% in 2027 as Fuel Costs Soar
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary warned that European airfares could rise 10–20% over the next year, potentially marking the biggest increase in history. The Iran conflict has pushed jet fuel prices sharply higher, squeezing airlines with limited fuel-price protection. O’Leary also expects fewer available seats as weaker airlines face bankruptcies or takeovers. Ryanair has hedged 80% of its fuel needs at $67 per barrel until March 2027, but only 15% of next year’s fuel costs are covered at $85 per barrel.