Dublin, IRELAND: In a development first reported by Reuters, Ryanair has signaled it may reconsider its multi-billion-dollar aircraft deal with Boeing, citing escalating U.S.-EU trade tensions and ongoing delivery delays from the American plane-maker. The airline’s stance could have far-reaching implications for global aircraft procurement and transatlantic trade relations.
Tariff Tensions Threaten Major Aircraft Order
Ryanair Group CEO Michael O’Leary revealed this week that the airline’s ongoing $30 billion order for Boeing 737 MAX aircraft could be in jeopardy if the U.S. imposes tariffs on aircraft exports. Speaking to reporters in Brussels, O’Leary stated unequivocally that if tariffs are applied, Ryanair “will not accept any of those aircraft.”
This strong stance comes in response to intensifying trade tensions between the European Union and the United States. If enacted, the tariffs could sharply increase costs for Ryanair’s fleet expansion, threatening the budget carrier’s aggressive post-pandemic growth strategy.
Eyes on China’s COMAC as a Contingency
In a notable development, O’Leary said Ryanair has begun exploratory talks with China’s state-owned Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC). While acknowledging that COMAC’s C919 narrow-body aircraft does not currently align with Ryanair’s requirements especially in range and capacity, he indicated an openness to future models.
Picture Credits: N509FZ
“The C919 today doesn’t work for Ryanair,” O’Leary said. “But we want to be part of the conversation as the aircraft develops, particularly with larger variants in the pipeline.”
The remarks signal a potential shift in global aerospace dynamics and serve as a cautionary message to Boeing to meet delivery timelines and avoid cost inflation due to geopolitical risks.
Delivery Delays Impact Forecasts
Ryanair has also been forced to revise its passenger growth forecast for fiscal 2025–26, cutting its projection from 205 million to 200 million passengers. The adjustment is a direct result of delivery delays on Boeing’s part, exacerbated by ongoing supply chain issues and certification hurdles.
Although Boeing has pledged to stabilize production and address quality concerns, O’Leary stressed that current delivery speeds remain insufficient for Ryanair’s summer 2025 operations.
U.S. Lawmakers Respond to COMAC Remarks
O’Leary’s comments about potential cooperation with COMAC triggered swift political responses in the U.S. Several lawmakers warned of the national security risks associated with relying on Chinese aerospace firms, especially one backed by Beijing.
Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) urged European carriers to “choose partners that align with shared democratic values,” warning that expanding ties with COMAC could pose long-term strategic challenges.
Ryanair, however, clarified that discussions are exploratory and aimed at maintaining leverage in a constrained global aircraft market.
Strategic Leverage or Genuine Pivot?
Aviation analysts view Ryanair’s public stance as part of a broader negotiation strategy rather than an imminent pivot away from Boeing. “This is classic O’Leary,” said Paul Brennan, senior analyst at EuroSky Advisory. “He’s sending a message loud and clear to Boeing, but also testing the waters for new global options.
As Boeing continues to face production scrutiny and global supply headwinds, Ryanair’s position underscores the growing complexity of international aircraft procurement and the potential rise of new players in a historically duopolistic industry.
For now, Ryanair remains Boeing’s largest customer in Europe and continues to operate one of the world’s largest fleets of 737s.
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