Italy’s competition authority fined Ryanair €256m (£223m) for abusing its dominant position to restrict online travel agents from selling its tickets. The airline implemented technical obstacles between April 2023 and at least April 2025, forcing passengers to book directly through its website.
Authorities described an elaborate strategy hindering agencies and passengers. Ryanair prevented ticket sales combined with other airlines or services, weakening competition.
Ryanair’s response and strategy
Ryanair announced an immediate appeal of the “legally flawed” ruling. CEO Michael O’Leary called it an affront to consumer protection, crediting direct sales via ryanair.com for 20% cost savings passed on as Europe’s lowest fares.
O’Leary targeted “pirate” agents like Booking.com, Kiwi, and Kayak for adding fees and mark-ups. Tactics included extra security forms for third-party buyers, abrupt flight removals from agent sites in late 2023, facial recognition checks, payment blocks, and mass account deletions.
Impact on sales and market position
The measures caused a sales drop and dented profits, but Ryanair reached a €31bn valuation, becoming the world’s second most valuable airline after Delta. Most sales occurred via its own site even before the campaign.
Agencies faced imposed partnerships banning combined sales with other carriers. Only in April 2025 did Ryanair allow links to its services for effective competition.
Authority details on abuse
The authority cited Ryanair’s significant market power in blocking or burdening purchases combined with other flights, tourism, or insurance services. O’Leary plans to step down in 5-10 years, with €111m in shares if he stays until July 2028.
Source: The Guardian
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