Ryanair chief predicts European air fares may jump by up to 20% in 2027
Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary predicts European air fares could rise by 10% to 20% in 2027 as conflict in the Middle East drives up jet fuel costs. He said many airlines lack protection against further price rises, increasing the risk of bankruptcies and takeovers.
IATA estimated jet fuel would average $152 a barrel in 2026, up from $90 in 2025. Ryanair is 85% unhedged for 2027, with its contracts covering 15% of fuel at $85 a barrel; O’Leary said current spot prices are about twice that. EasyJet has hedged 62% of its fuel for the first half of 2027 and 37% for the second, while Ryanair plans to cut 20 Belgian routes and more than one million seats after Belgium raised its aviation tax.
- O’Leary forecasts European air fares may rise by up to 20% in 2027.
- Many airlines have limited fuel-price protection from April 2027.
- Ryanair plans to cut routes and seats in Belgium after a tax rise.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “European air fares could rise by as much as 20% in 2027, Ryanair boss predicts”.