Ryanair Holdings Plc has indicated that Boeing Co. is taking significant steps to expedite the delivery of several 737 Max jets this summer, which may help mitigate the delivery delays that have impacted the airline’s operations. According to Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary, speaking at a press conference in Rome, the airline is set to receive an additional two to three aircraft by the end of June. Although this update still does not meet the airline’s original acquisition plan, it reflects Boeing’s efforts to address delivery schedules for one of its major customers.
This development comes after Boeing had to slow down its production rates due to a serious incident in January involving a 737 Max 9 jet operated by Alaska Airlines. The slowdown has affected airlines globally, with Ryanair now expecting to receive only 40 of the 57 Max planes it had planned for this summer. This shortfall has forced Ryanair to adjust its annual passenger forecast downward and reduce flight frequencies across its network.
Ryanair’s CEO expressed a renewed optimism under Boeing’s new leadership, particularly praising Stephanie Pope, who recently took over as head of Boeing’s commercial aircraft division. O’Leary’s comments suggest a confidence in improved communication and responsiveness from Boeing, which could translate to better alignment with Ryanair’s operational needs and scheduling.
Looking ahead, Ryanair anticipates most of the delayed aircraft deliveries will occur from July through October, strategically timed to prepare for the 2025 peak summer travel season. This adjustment in delivery timelines is seen as a crucial step for Ryanair to maintain its competitive edge in the budget airline sector and meet its operational goals in the coming years.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, bloomberg.com
