Ryanair’s Profit Soars on Robust Bookings and Higher Fares, Eyes Strong Summer Performance

Ryanair reported a sharp rise in net profit for the April–June quarter, reaching €820 million ($953 million), up from €360 million during the same period last year, as strong last-minute bookings and favorable Easter timing buoyed revenues. This figure also marks a significant increase from €663 million recorded in Q1 2023, when Easter similarly fell in April. The result outpaced analysts’ expectations of €716 million, according to a company-compiled consensus.
Europe’s largest low-cost carrier by passenger volume saw average fares rise by 21% year-on-year in the quarter, more than offsetting the 15% drop recorded in the same period last year. This fare recovery was aided by robust consumer demand and improved booking patterns compared to its rivals. Ryanair's Chief Financial Officer, Neil Sorahan, noted that booking levels across the board remain solid and that consumer confidence is “very strong,” refuting concerns raised by competitors EasyJet (EZJ.L) and Jet2 (JET2.L) over later-than-usual bookings.

Shares of Ryanair were up 6.5% to €24.58 as of 07:25 GMT on July 21, close to its all-time high of €24.98 reached earlier in the month. The carrier expects further recovery in the July–September quarter, historically its most profitable, forecasting the reversal of nearly all the 7% fare decline experienced in the same period last year. This optimism is supported by improved consumer sentiment and the resolution of disputes with online travel agents, which had previously disrupted booking flows.

Despite a positive earnings outlook, Ryanair remains exposed to external risks, particularly its heavy reliance on Boeing (BA.N), as the U.S. aircraft manufacturer faces potential trade tariffs. However, Sorahan expressed cautious optimism, suggesting that commercial aircraft could be excluded from any future tariff measures under EU-U.S. negotiations. The airline continues to project "reasonable net profit growth" for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, contingent on continued strength in late summer bookings.