Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O’Leary told analysts on Monday that the airline sees no risk that a lack of jet fuel will force flights to be cancelled in Europe over the summer season. Speaking during a conference call after the company released its annual results, O’Leary said the carrier’s assessment of fuel availability is reassuring.
"We now have almost zero concerns over fuel supplies across Europe," O’Leary said, adding, "We do not see any real risk to supplies." He reiterated that Europe is well supplied with jet fuel.
On the fleet front, O’Leary reported constructive feedback from Boeing regarding the MAX 10. He said the planemaker is "making very positive noises about the MAX 10," and that Ryanair expects certification either at the end of the third quarter or in the early part of the fourth quarter.
On labour costs, O’Leary indicated that the airline will conclude agreements this year that will deliver "some significant crew pay increases." He also commented on booking patterns, noting that close-in bookings in early and mid-May are strong and that pricing for those bookings is strong as well.
Ryanair’s Chief Financial Officer provided details on the company’s dollar hedging for fuel. The CFO said the group has hedged 80% of its dollar requirements for fuel for the current year at a rate of $1.15, and has hedged 30% of next year’s dollar requirements at $1.20.
The comments — covering supply expectations, fleet certification timing, crew remuneration, booking momentum and hedging levels — were delivered as part of the management discussion after the release of annual results. Management’s statements highlight areas that will bear watching for market participants, including how pay settlements and remaining unhedged fuel exposure evolve.
Contextual note: The company’s remarks combined operational observations with specific financial hedging figures and a projected certification window for a new aircraft model. The information provided reflects management’s current views and reported hedging positions as stated during the conference call.