DUBLIN— Ryanair (FR) Chief Executive Michael O’Leary has apologized for describing rival full-service airlines as “high-fare rapists,” ending more than a week of controversy over remarks made during a media briefing in Dublin.
O’Leary said he was sorry for the offense caused, particularly to victims and survivors of sexual violence, and described his use of the term as careless.
The comments were made on September 10 as O’Leary discussed rising fares at competing airlines, including British Airways (BA), Aer Lingus (EI) and Lufthansa (LH).
He argued that higher prices would encourage passengers to switch to Ryanair’s lower fares, while using the disputed term to describe its competitors.
Ryanair O’Leary Issues Apology
In a video released on September 18, O’Leary said conversations with family and friends over the previous 10 days had led him to recognize the level of upset caused by his wording.
He said he wanted to apologize “sincerely and unreservedly” and pledged that he would not use the term again.
O’Leary had initially rejected calls for an apology after the remarks attracted criticism. In a letter to Dublin Rape Crisis Centre chief executive Rachel Morrogh, he argued that he had clearly described rape as a heinous crime and said he would not accept the organization’s offer of training.
The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre had called for an apology, saying the comments could contribute to the trivialization of sexual violence and could be deeply hurtful to survivors.
The organization also offered O’Leary training on the impact of language surrounding sexual violence.
Remarks Sparked Backlash
O’Leary made the comments at Ryanair’s Dublin headquarters ahead of the airline’s annual general meeting.
When reporters challenged him over whether the comparison was appropriate, he initially maintained that it was and repeated his description of rival airlines.
The remarks drew criticism from victims’ groups and politicians in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Tánaiste Simon Harris described the language as inappropriate, while the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre said the comments had prompted concern among survivors of sexual violence.
The controversy marks a reversal from O’Leary’s initial position. His latest statement acknowledges that his choice of words caused significant offense, while maintaining that he considers rape a serious and heinous crime.
Ryanair CEO Contract
The apology comes shortly after Ryanair shareholders approved a new compensation arrangement for O’Leary.
Under the agreement, he is contracted to remain as the airline group’s chief executive until April 2032.
The package includes an option over 10 million Ryanair shares, subject to performance and employment conditions.
Full vesting depends on the company’s profit after tax exceeding €4 billion or its ordinary share price reaching €42 and remaining above that level for 28 consecutive days during the relevant period, PYOK flagged.
O’Leary’s latest apology brings the immediate dispute over his comments to a close, although the episode has added another controversy to the long-running public profile of Ryanair’s outspoken chief executive.
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