Ryanair is reshaping its expansion plans to overcome persistent Boeing aircraft delivery delays. Instead of adding more destinations, Ryanair is boosting flight frequencies on existing routes and improving aircraft efficiency. This new direction keeps the airline growing while staying profitable. By focusing on established routes, Ryanair reduces risk and maximizes customer convenience.
In the past, Ryanair expanded aggressively by opening new bases and launching hundreds of routes. However, for summer 2025, it has trimmed that growth to about 160 new routes. This strategy shift reflects a smarter move. Ryanair now concentrates efforts in places like Italy, Hungary, and Sweden. These countries support aviation growth with friendly government policies.
Meanwhile, Ryanair has pulled back from less profitable markets. In Denmark, it closed its Billund base due to new air taxes. This move cut its capacity in that region by nearly 37%. The airline uses its resources better by shifting focus to supportive environments.
Ryanair also made other operational changes to match demand trends. It reduced flights on slow weekdays like Tuesday and Wednesday. Instead, it added more flights on Thursdays, when passenger numbers increase. This realignment keeps planes full and costs under control.
Even with delivery issues, Ryanair carried over 200 million passengers in fiscal 2025. The airline aims to grow that number by another 3% by March 2026. Boeing delays still limit Ryanair’s full fleet potential. Yet, 29 more 737 MAX 8 planes will arrive by autumn 2025. These aircraft will fuel growth just before summer 2026.
Bookings for the upcoming season already look strong. Ryanair expects higher fares in the early part of the year. A full Easter holiday and better online booking systems helped increase demand. With these adjustments, Ryanair stays competitive while planning for long-term success.
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