Ryanair to cut winter schedule in Europe due to higher fuel costs
Irish low-cost carrier Ryanair said it will reduce its winter flight schedule in Europe amid rising aviation fuel costs. The company linked the increase in fuel prices to the war between the United States and Iran. This was reported by The Local Sweden, which published an AFP report.
The carrier lowered its passenger target for the financial year ending in April 2027 from 216 million to 214 million. Ryanair did not specify which flights would be cancelled or reduced during the winter period.
Reducing winter losses
Ryanair said the decision was intended to reduce its risk exposure to unhedged aviation fuel during the loss-making winter season. The airline usually incurs losses from November to March, when demand for flights declines after the summer peak.
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According to the company’s estimates, a one-off reduction of the winter schedule will make it possible to cut winter losses by €70–100 million.
Fares and profit
Ryanair warned that fares for short-haul flights in Europe could rise significantly if high oil prices persist until summer 2027.
At the same time, the company said it had secured most of its aviation fuel requirements for the current financial year at a price of about $67 per barrel, significantly below current prices. Ryanair expects a profitable 2026/27 financial year, but forecasts that net profit will be lower than the record €2.17 billion after tax in 2025/26.
