Transatlantic route from Ryanair
Thursday, 25 Sep 2008 11:59
Ireland based carrier Ryanair is reported to be considering setting up a transatlantic venture – following a period of unprecedented turmoil in the industry.
The low-cost airline views the closure of a number of airlines – including Silverjet, Zoom and XL – in the wake of dramatic increase in the price of fuel as a potential opportunity to launch a new venture.
Ryanair now hopes to secure approval for its bid for Aer Lingus – subsequently using the 15 long haul aircraft the Irish flag-carrier has on order for a new low cost transatlantic service.
Routes to New York from Stansted, Prestwick and Birmingham have been identified as part of the development plans.
Ryanair deputy chief executive Howard Millar was quoted in the Telegraph newspaper as saying: "I think the whole European agenda has changed.
"The industry is in a rapid period of change. Smaller carriers will not survive as Europe moves towards recession."
Ryanair has also announced it will allow passengers to use their mobile phones onboard 14 of its 166 aircraft within a fortnight.
Initially, passengers signed up to O2 and 3 service providers will be able to use the new service.
Only six passengers on each plane will be able to talk on their phones at one time but all on board will be able to send and receive text messages.
Chris O'Toole