Clear Skies Ahead

After the Alaska Airlines incident with a 737 MAX 9, Ryanair's CEO, Michael O'Leary, assured European customers that they don't operate the MAX 9 and expressed confidence in Boeing's safety standards. The 737 MAX, he stated, is the most audited and secure aircraft, highlighting Ryanair's incident-free operations.

Following the incident, Ryanair announced its proactive steps to enhance oversight and quality control. O'Leary disclosed that a team of engineers would be sent to supervise the production of the 57 aircraft on order from Boeing. Despite not flying the MAX 9, Ryanair is committed to maintaining stringent standards and increasing the number of engineers at production facilities in Wichita and Seattle in response to Boeing's request.

Ryanair raised quality control concerns to Boeing's CEO Dave Calhoun, emphasizing the need for improvements to avoid issues like items left behind in plane deliveries. Boeing responded by doubling engineers on production lines, showing commitment to addressing concerns.

O'Leary recognized Calhoun and West's positive changes, but stressed more work is needed. Ryanair is committed to collaborating with Boeing for aircraft meeting top safety and quality standards.

O'Leary expects MAX 9 grounding to lift soon after US-wide inspection. Acknowledges potential aircraft delivery shortfall, impacting Ryanair's goal of flying 205 million passengers. Adjusted growth projections due to expected reduction in Boeing aircraft deliveries.

O'Leary opposes the UK government's "drip pricing" crackdown, advocating for Ryanair's transparent ancillary cost approach. He suggests focusing on tackling scams by online travel agencies rather than targeting the airline's fee transparency.

O'Leary called for accountability in aviation, urging the dismissal of National Air Traffic Control's CEO after a summer air traffic control failure. He also criticized Brexit, stating it's been a disaster for the British economy due to increased red tape compared to Europe.