Ryanair: Air Conquest in Europe
Ryanair's rise to the top of the European airline industry is now an established fact. The Irish airline has far outstripped its competitors, carrying 182 million customers by 2023, with Air France-KLM accounting for half that figure. Even Lufthansa, with 93 million passengers, is a long way behind. This result establishes Ryanair as the leader, leaving its European rivals to follow in its wake.
Ryanair Ascendant take-off
- Created in 1984
- Double the number of customers compared to Air France-KLM by 2023
- Serving a growing population thanks to its low-cost business model
Founded in 1984, Ryanair took off by offering a low-cost formula, especially in a climate of declining purchasing power. After going through turbulent times, including the pandemic followed by job cuts, Ryanair has bounced back by hiring back staff for its booming business. With its expansion plans, the company aims to dominate the world's skies in the years to come.
Far Horizons and Ambitious Goals
Ryanair's goal goes far beyond its current status. With significant fleet expansion plans, including up to 800 Boeing 737s and Airbus A321s, the company aims to carry 300 million passengers by the middle of the next decade.
Ryanair's future challenges
- Impact of inflation on operating costs
- Increased competition, especially from Wizz Air
- Investments in the ecological transition
However, the horizon is not entirely clear for Ryanair, which, despite its promising prospects, faces a number of obstacles. Profitability is threatened by inflation, leading to higher operating costs and a possible commercial handicap due to the need to raise fares. What's more, Ryanair's profitability per passenger is now outstripped by Hungary's Wizz Air. To maintain its supremacy, Ryanair must therefore work against a backdrop of massive investment in more sustainable, environmentally-friendly transport solutions.
Ryanair's long-term strategy
In short, to maintain its leadership position in European aviation, Ryanair will have no choice but to navigate with precision through the financial, economic and social challenges it faces.
Overview in Figures
| Company | Passengers carried in 2023 |
| Ryanair | 182 million |
| Air France-KLM | 91 million |
| Lufthansa | 93 million |
This overview puts into perspective Ryanair's remarkable performance in comparison with its contemporaries, testifying to the success of its affordable business strategy.
Comments on this article are welcome; let us know your thoughts. To keep abreast of developments in this story, be sure to follow our updates.
English 
French