Ryanair’s Michael Cawley on AI, Tech Investment Strategy

Ryanair’s approach to artificial intelligence mirrors its long-standing commitment to cost efficiency and strategic discipline. According to Michael Cawley, the airline’s former CFO and deputy CEO, Ryanair will avoid chasing AI trends and instead focus on practical applications that drive operational value.

Speaking at Phocuswright Europe 2025, Cawley emphasized that Ryanair’s strength lies not in innovation for its own sake, but in “relentless execution.” The airline originally modeled itself after Southwest Airlines and has carried that same execution-focused mindset into its adoption of new technologies, including AI.

Ryanair’s tech investment is carefully allocated: 20% goes to infrastructure and cybersecurity, 40% to dynamic pricing tools, and 40% to business transformation projects such as automated check-in processes. Cawley noted that these investments support Ryanair’s mission to stay lean, responsive, and customer-focused.

AI is being used across key areas like customer service, revenue management, and flight operations. While many airlines chase AI hype, Ryanair is taking a measured, ROI-driven approach to its deployment.

Cawley also addressed Ryanair’s evolving relationship with online travel agencies (OTAs), noting that while the airline had long been critical of OTA practices, it has since secured partnerships with several major platforms. However, direct booking through Ryanair’s own channels remains the priority.

He concluded with a warning about the biggest challenge facing the aviation industry: political interference. Cawley believes regulatory obstacles—not competition or technology—pose the greatest threat to airline efficiency and growth in the coming years.

Tags: phocuswire

Ryanair’s Michael Cawley on AI, Tech Investment Strategy

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