Ryanair Fast-Tracks Pilot Hiring Ahead of Boeing 737-10 Deliveries

Ryanair is accelerating pilot recruitment as it prepares to integrate the Boeing 737-10 the large narrowbody aircraft—into its fleet by spring 2027. With certification expected by mid-2026, Boeing’s improved production schedule has reassured Ryanair that its first 15 aircraft will arrive on time, prompting immediate action to secure flight crew.

To support this fleet expansion, Ryanair plans to invest €25 million ($29 million) annually in pilot training and recruitment over the next three years. The initiative focuses on increasing cadet and first officer intake, building an internal pipeline of pilots ready to step into captain roles as deliveries ramp up from 2028 to 2030. This approach reflects Ryanair’s commitment to developing in-house talent, rather than relying heavily on external hiring.

The airline acknowledged that this hiring push will temporarily raise its first officer-to-captain ratio but emphasized that it will enhance long-term stability. FlightGlobal reported that Ryanair’s internal training strategy is crucial for managing operational growth across its European network, centered at Dublin Airport.

Ryanair’s pilot recruitment strategy aligns with the final phase of its major Boeing 737-8-200 order. The airline received 23 of these aircraft in the first half of the year and expects the remaining six jets to arrive by early 2025—well ahead of the summer peak. These fuel-efficient aircraft have helped streamline operations, reduce emissions, and support Ryanair’s sustainability goals.

In parallel, Ryanair received half of its 30 CFM LEAP-1B spare engines by September, ensuring maintenance flexibility and fleet readiness during high-demand periods.

Backed by this growing fleet, Ryanair raised its full-year passenger forecast to 207 million, citing robust demand and increased capacity. The airline posted a €2.54 billion profit for the six months ending in September—up 42% year-on-year—with total revenue climbing to €9.82 billion. Ancillary revenue from services such as baggage and seat selection reached €2.91 billion, up 6%. (One € equals USD1.15)

In a strategic move tied to regulatory developments, Ryanair announced lower fares and added capacity at Dublin Airport for the 2025 holiday season. This follows the suspension of a controversial passenger cap after a joint legal challenge with Aer Lingus. CEO Michael O’Leary welcomed the temporary measure but warned that continued uncertainty could stall future growth.

The legal dispute has advanced to the European Court of Justice, delaying long-term scheduling decisions. O’Leary stressed that the lack of clarity affects not only Ryanair’s short-haul operations but also long-haul carriers relying on Dublin as a key international hub. He urged the Irish government to finalize legislation removing the cap, as outlined in the national Program for Government.

Meanwhile, Ryanair is adjusting its network to maximize profitability. The airline is cutting capacity in high-cost markets like Germany and Spain due to aviation taxes, redirecting aircraft to more business-friendly countries. O’Leary cited Italy, Sweden, and Albania as growth markets, noting that lower environmental levies have encouraged new routes and airport bases.

O’Leary also renewed his criticism of the EU’s Emissions Trading Scheme, which he argues penalizes European carriers by applying only to intra-EU flights, giving long-haul competitors a regulatory edge. He called for reforms to level the playing field.

On airport safety, O’Leary advocated for stricter drone policies, following several disruptions at European airports. “It’s simple,” he stated. “You see a drone over an airport, you shoot it down.”
As Ryanair ramps up hiring, streamlines its fleet, and shifts capacity across Europe, it positions itself to dominate low-cost air travel well into the next decade—with the Boeing 737-10 at the core of that strategy.


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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationa2z.com, flightglobal.com