Ryanair Loses Irish Court Appeal, Challenges Spain’s EUR109M Fine

Ryanair (FR, Dublin International) has lost an appeal in an Irish court over its lawsuit against Italy’s antitrust authority (AGCM) regarding a March 2024 raid on its Dublin Airport offices.

The search was conducted by Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) at AGCM’s request, following complaints from Italian travel agencies and consumer groups about Ryanair’s ticket sales restrictions. Ryanair sued both regulators, arguing the search warrants were invalid, but the appellate court ruled Irish courts had jurisdiction under EU law to handle the case.

Meanwhile, Ryanair is challenging a EUR179 million (USD183.5 million) fine imposed by Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and Agenda 2030 in November 2024 for allegedly overcharging passengers for carry-on luggage. Ryanair’s share of the fine was the largest, at EUR109 million (USD112 million).

The airline is citing a 2014 Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruling that upheld airlines’ rights to charge for checked luggage, though it also classified carry-on bags as an essential part of passenger transport. Ryanair insists that EU treaties protect airlines from government interference in commercial operations.

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary labeled Spanish minister Pablo Bustinduy a “crazy communist minister” for supporting the fines. Bustinduy responded, saying his priority is to protect Spanish consumers over corporate interests.

Separately, Ryanair plans to cut 800,000 seats on seven Spanish regional routes in summer 2025, citing high airport fees.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com