Ryanair warnt: Flugtickets könnten deutlich teurer werden

Ryanair has issued a warning that airfares could significantly increase during the winter months if oil prices remain high, according to reports from Croatian media outlet N1 Hrvatska. The Irish low-cost airline stated that some competitors might struggle with maintaining capacity or even survival during the winter season, should fuel costs continue to rise. This comes amid a new surge in oil prices linked to escalating conflicts in the Middle East. The airline’s concerns stem from the rising cost of jet fuel, which has increased by 8.2 percent on a monthly basis, reaching an average of $156 per barrel, 74.2 percent higher than last year, according to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Ryanair noted that its target price for aviation fuel in 2027 is set at $67 per barrel, ensuring the company remains in a favorable position to achieve another profitable year. However, this level does not cover all fuel expenses, particularly those associated with flights during the winter season, which runs from November through March and is generally less profitable. To mitigate potential financial strain, Ryanair has decided to reduce its targeted air traffic volume for 2027 by two million passengers, bringing the total down to 214 million. This reduction aims to limit the use of expensive fuel that lacks price risk protection. Despite this adjustment, the airline expects winter air travel to largely remain unchanged compared to the previous year. Ryanair warned that if oil prices stay elevated into 2027, ticket prices for short-haul flights within Europe could see substantial increases. The airline believes these hikes would reflect higher fuel costs, especially since some less protected competitors may face challenges in sustaining operations during the upcoming winter season. The airline emphasized that such a scenario would likely result in more expensive tickets for travelers. In addition to adjusting its winter schedule, Ryanair continues to expand its summer passenger traffic, which spans from April to October. It plans to increase this by over five percent, targeting 145 million passengers for the period. Meanwhile, its competitor Wizz Air, a Hungarian low-cost carrier, reported a 25.9 percent increase in passengers last month compared to the previous year, driven by a surge in flight capacity. The situation highlights the growing impact of volatile oil prices on the airline industry, forcing companies to make strategic adjustments to manage costs and maintain profitability. As the winter season approaches, airlines will need to balance their operational goals with the realities of fluctuating fuel prices, potentially leading to further changes in pricing strategies and service offerings.