Ryanair CEO forecasts European airfares could rise up to 20%

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary expects European airfares to rise over the next 12 months.

He said prices could increase by 10% to 20%, which he called the biggest rise in Europe’s history.

The forecast comes as the US-Iran war has pushed jet fuel prices sharply higher, raising costs for airlines.

O’Leary said many airlines have little protection against fuel price increases from April 2027, while Ryanair has hedged some of its fuel costs.

He also expects fewer seats as airlines go bankrupt or are taken over, which could add pressure to fares.

If his forecast proves right, passengers could face higher ticket prices in the coming year.