Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has defended a controversial phrase he used to describe competing airlines, telling reporters that passengers "can't afford to fly with the high‑fare rapists around Europe."
O'Leary reiterated the comment after it was reported in the media, arguing the language reflected his frustration with what he described as high ticket prices charged by some carriers. He said the remark was meant to underline that many travellers are priced out of flying when fares remain elevated.
Ryanair, which built its business on low‑cost air travel, has long positioned itself as a vocal critic of higher‑priced rivals and of policies it says push up travel costs. The carrier's public comments on pricing and competition often draw attention because of the company's role as one of Europe's largest low‑cost airlines.
The remarks come amid an ongoing debate over airline pricing and consumer choice in Europe as carriers adjust capacity and costs in response to changing demand. O'Leary's language underscores tensions between legacy and low‑cost carriers over market share and fare structures, though he did not set out any specific policy proposals in defending his comment.