
Ryanair
AirlineAbout
Ryanair is a leading Irish low-cost carrier established in 1984 by the Ryan family. It began operations in 1985 with a focus on providing affordable flights within Ireland and the UK. The airline's pivotal moment came in the early 1990s when it adopted a low-cost model inspired by Southwest Airlines. Under Michael O'Leary's leadership, Ryanair transformed into a no-frills carrier, emphasizing efficiency with a single aircraft type and quick turnarounds. Ryanair operates a large fleet, primarily consisting of Boeing 737s, and serves over 230 destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The airline is known for its extensive network and low fares, making air travel accessible to millions. Ryanair also focuses on sustainability, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. With a strong operational model and high customer volumes, Ryanair maintains its position as Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers.